How to Build a DIY Planter Box

Learn how to build a DIY planter box with this simple tutorial, that’s also budget-friendly!

Spring has sprung! So today, I’m excited to show you how to build a DIY planter box, so you can make your own.

Don’t you just love how my Hibiscus looks in there. I can’t wait until it blooms in just a few days. It’s sooo close!

I got my plans from Ana White, the queen of building plans. I made a few modifications, so I’ll show you how I did those along the way.

Start by downloading Ana’s plans (here). You’ll use wood glue and screws to attach your cedar boards to your 1×3’s. So you’ll end up with 4 of these panels.

set of four wood squares for planter box

Then you’ll drill pocket holes in all of your panels. I used my Kreg Jig for this. I have used my Kreg Jig so often lately, I love it. You’ll attach your 2×2’s to the side of two of your panels. (note: if you are adding the frame to the top of your planter box, like I did, you’ll cut your 2×2’s at 21 inches and make sure they’re flush with the top of your panels- this is different than Ana’s plan. It’ll all make sense in a few steps).

Then attach your panels to each other using 2 1/2 inch pocket hole screws (side note: if you’re using your Kreg Jig a lot, buy this pack of pocket hole screws– you’ll love it!)

Here’s where my plans differ from Ana’s. I had a hard time getting my planter square, so I used these shelf brackets to get it to stay stong and square. I used 2 of these brackets, on opposite corners of my planter. Once it’s assembled, you can use this for a shelf, just put a piece of plywood on the brackets to hold your pot or dirt.

And, you’ll also notice in the photo below that I ended up using some 1 1/4 inch grabber screws to reinforce my staples on my side panels. I did this because I was worried that in the weather, the staples and glue might not hold as strong as I’d like, so I wanted some extra reinforcements.

Here’s another thing I changed from Ana’s plans. I added some mitered 1×3’s to the top of my planter to give it a really nice, finished look. I found this idea on Infarrantly Creative. In order to do this, you’ll need to make sure your 1×2’s are flush with the top of your panels. I made a note of this a few steps up.

I clamped my frame so it was nice and square, then I wood glued it on to my planter box and used my AirStrike Brad Nailer to attach the frame without being able to see the nails.

Then you can paint or stain your planter box. I think I might paint mine all white, but I’m still on the fence. I also made one of these for my Mother in Law for mothers day, and I think I’ll stain her’s so she keeps that nice, rustic look.