Creating a garden planter from reclaimed wood is not only an environmentally friendly choice but also a beautiful way to enhance your outdoor space. Using materials that have a story adds character to your garden, and the process can be a fulfilling DIY project. Here are three diverse examples to inspire your own garden planter creations.
This example uses old wooden pallets, which are often available for free or at a low cost. They can easily be transformed into a charming rustic planter that fits perfectly in any garden setting.
Start by disassembling the pallet carefully, using a pry bar to remove the boards without breaking them. Once you have your boards, cut them to your desired height for the planter. For a simple rectangular design, you will need four boards for the sides and two for the bottom. Attach the side boards together using wood screws or nails, ensuring the corners are aligned for stability.
Next, reinforce the bottom with the two boards cut to size. To ensure proper drainage, drill small holes in the bottom before adding a landscaping fabric to prevent soil loss while allowing water to flow through. Fill the planter with high-quality potting soil and your choice of plants, whether herbs, flowers, or vegetables.
Notes: You can personalize your planter by adding a coat of outdoor wood sealant or paint to enhance durability and aesthetics. Consider adding wheels to the bottom for easy mobility.
A vertical tiered planter is perfect for small spaces or for maximizing your gardening area. This design allows you to grow multiple plants in a compact structure, making it both functional and stylish.
Begin by gathering reclaimed wood planks, ensuring they are of varying lengths to create a tiered effect. Cut the longer pieces for the back of the planter and shorter pieces for the front. Assemble the frame by using wood screws to connect the pieces into a rectangular shape, ensuring each tier is securely fastened.
For each tier, attach a small piece of wood to create a lip that will hold the soil in place. Drill drainage holes in each tier and line the insides with landscaping fabric. Fill each tier with potting soil and plant a variety of herbs or flowers, making sure to choose plants that thrive in similar conditions.
Notes: You can enhance the planter’s look by staining or painting the wood. Adding hooks on the sides for hanging tools or decorative items can also add a personal touch.
Transforming an old wheelbarrow into a unique garden planter adds a whimsical element to your garden. This project is simple and fun, making it a great choice for beginners.
Start by sourcing an old wheelbarrow that may no longer be functional for its original purpose. If the wheelbarrow is rusty, clean it thoroughly and consider applying a rust-resistant paint to give it a fresh look. Next, if there are any holes in the bottom, patch them up to retain soil but ensure there are still some drainage holes available.
Once ready, fill the wheelbarrow with potting soil and arrange your favorite plants. This design works wonderfully for colorful flowers or even small vegetable plants. The wheelbarrow can be placed on a patio, near a garden pathway, or even in a sunny corner of your yard as a statement piece.
Notes: You can enhance the planter by adding decorative stones or mulch on top of the soil. Consider using the wheelbarrow as a seasonal display by changing the plants according to the season.
By utilizing reclaimed wood, each of these garden planters not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a touch of creativity and sustainability to your gardening efforts. Happy planting!