Learn how to build this DIY Planter Box with just a few tools, free plans, a how-to video and a step-by-step tutorial by Shanty2Chic.

We have had some crazy weather in Texas over the last year and the multiple freezes have taken a toll on my flower beds. Most of my bushes died and I really needed to dig everything up and start fresh.

I have always wanted a couple of large cedar planters in my front flower beds and this was the perfect time to make that happen. So, I designed and built these Cedar Planter Boxes to add curb appeal, fill space and add dimension to my front flower beds. I really love how they completely changed the look of my home and they are super easy to build!

Just click the box below to watch Whitney and I build one!

As always, we have the free printable plans and the step-by-step instructions!

Click here to jump to the free DIY Planter Box Plans

So, let’s get to building a large but simple wooden planter box!

How to Build a Planter Box

Tools:

• Miter Saw
• Drill
• Kreg Jig
• Nailer
• Sander

Supplies:

• 9 1x6x8 Cedar Planks or Cedar Fence Pickets
• 2 1x4x8 Cedar Planks or Cedar Fence Pickets
• 6 2x4x8 Cedar
• 1 1/4″ Pocket Hole Screws
• 2 1/2″ Pocket Hole Screws
• 1 1/2″ Outdoor Wood Screws
• 1 1/4″ Brad Nails
• Wood Glue

Building the Frame

Step 1:

Cut the frame pieces to size. Drill 1 1/2″ pocket holes at both ends of each long, horizontal frame piece.

• You can find our favorite Kreg Jig model here

Attach them to two legs with 2 1/2″ pocket hole screws and wood glue. There should be a 1 1/4″ space at the bottom of the legs. Build two long frame assemblies.

Step 2:

Cut the short frame pieces to size and drill 1 1 /2″ pocket holes at both ends of each piece. Attach them to the long frame assemblies with 2 1/2″ pocket hole screws and wood glue.

Step 3:

Cut the short cleats to size and attach them flush with the bottom of the short frame pieces with 2 1/2″ outdoor wood screws and wood glue. Note: If you don’t need a deep planter box you can attach the cleats higher. Check out the post on our site for more detailed instructions.

Step 4:

Cut the long cleats to size and attach them flush with the bottom of the long frame pieces with 2 1/2″ wood screws and wood glue.

Attaching the Slats

Step 1:

Cut the bottom slat pieces to size, spread them out evenly over the cleats and attach them to the cleats with 1 1/2″ outdoor wood screws and wood glue. The spacing of the slats will allow for proper drainage.

Step 2:

Cut the side slat pieces to size and drill 3/4″ pocket hole screws at both ends. Attach them to the inside of the legs with 1 1/4″ pocket screws and wood glue. We used scrap wood as a spacer for the 1/2″ space between the boards. 

Step 3:

Cut the long slats to size and attach them to the inside of the planter box with 1 1/2″ outdoor wood screws and wood glue, from the back of the slats into the inside of the legs and frame. Use the same spacing as the side slats.

Adding the Trim

Step 1:

Cut the short angle trim pieces to size and attach them to the top ends of the planter box with 1 1/2″ outdoor wood screws and wood glue. Measure and cut for the long trim pieces and attach them the same way. Pop a few 1 1/4″ brad nails into the mitered corners.

Modification

These are very large planter boxes and can hold many different styles and sizes of plants. If you want the look of a large wood planter but don’t need them as deep, you can move the cleats up and attach them to the long slats.

Then, just attach the bottom slats to the cleats the same way.

The Finish

Step 1:

Fill any exposed pocket holes and screw holes, sand it down and add an outdoor finish for weather resistance.

• You can find the outdoor stain that I used here

Step 2:

I used landscape fabric to line the inside of the raised planter box and attached the fabric to the inside and the bottom of the planter, with my 18 gauge staple gun and 5/8″ staples.

I am so in love my my new garden boxes! They were so easy to build and they add so much character to the front of my home!Make sure to share your builds with us on social media and use #shanty2chic so we can share them too!

Happy Building!

Check out some of our other outdoor projects!

Tall Cedar Planter Boxes

Lounge Chairs

Outdoor Game Table

Outdoor Table