How to Build Brick Flower Boxes

Brick flower boxes can provide a substantial and weatherproof container. There are many advantages to brick flower boxes in that they provide good growing conditions by housing quality soil in an area that may be unsuitable for gardens. They also can be constructed in a manner fitting the surroundings and in different shapes. The height can be varied, and may make planting, watering and weeding easier. Constructing the box can be easy or challenging, depending on the design.

Short stakes
String
Set square
Tape measure
Garden shovel
Cement
Crushed stone
Builder's sand
Pointed trowel
Bubble level
Waterproof paint
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Mark out the size and design of the flower box using the stakes and string as a guide. Check that angles are correct, then dig a trench following the pattern of the string to a depth of approximately 6 inches, using a narrow garden shovel approximately 6 inches wide.
- 2
  Mix one part cement to four parts crushed stone. Fill the trench with this cement mixture, ensuring the concrete surface is just below ground level. Level the mixture. Firm it down and leave it for about 24 hours to dry.
- 3
  Mix one part cement to four parts sand to make a mortar. Spread a layer over the dried cement. Run a length of string alongside the cement to help keep bricks in a straight line as you build. Begin laying, following the desired pattern. Make sure the ends of the bricks have a layer of mortar spread on them.
- 4
  Continue to place the bricks in layers, staggering the joins. Check with the bubble level often. Continue building until the desired height is reached. Ensure a tidy finish to the mortar while it still is wet, before leaving it to harden.
- 5
  Coat the inside of the box with a layer of waterproof paint and leave it to dry before filling it with soil.

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