Creating your own urban planter boxes is a rewarding project that combines woodworking with gardening. If you're handy with basic tools, you can build beautiful, functional planters that transform your balcony or patio into a green oasis. Here's a straightforward method using common materials.
You'll need:
- 1x6 or 2x6 cedar boards (naturally rot-resistant)
- Exterior-grade wood screws (1¼" and 2½")
- Drill with bits
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Measuring tape
- Safety glasses
- Landscape fabric
- Stapler
Construction Steps:
1. Cut four equal-length pieces for the sides and four shorter pieces for the ends. A 24" length works well for balcony planters.
2. Create box corners by drilling pilot holes and screwing the sides to the ends using 2½" screws. Pre-drilling prevents wood splitting.
3. Build a simple base using 1x2 cleats installed along the inside bottom edges. Add several cross-supports for drainage and strength.
4. Line the interior with landscape fabric, stapling it securely. This contains soil while allowing drainage.
5. Finish with a food-safe sealant if desired, though untreated cedar ages beautifully to a silver-gray.
Place your completed planter in its permanent location before filling with soil, as it will become heavy. Consider adding casters for mobility. These planters work perfectly for herbs, lettuce, flowers, or small vegetables. The simple design can be easily modified - make them longer, taller, or add decorative trim to match your outdoor space.
Maintenance tip: Elevate planters slightly with small blocks to improve airflow and prevent rotting. Your handmade planters will provide years of gardening enjoyment with minimal upkeep.