Planters That Fit on Deck Fences

Hanging

• Hang long, rectangular, trough-shaped boxes from the top rail, using hooking window box brackets. The top hooks of the brackets hold on to the fence rail while the lower hooks shelve the planters. The tops of planter boxes sit at a lower level than the top of the fence creating a tiered effect. Planter brackets and hooks are available in assorted sizes and styles from garden and home supply stores.

Saddle

• Customize wood trough planters to set atop the top rail in a tongue and groove fashion. Build planters matching the width of the top rail. Cut the long sides of the planter a few inches wider than the height of the planter then assemble the planter so the long side walls extend beyond the short sides. The extra width creates saddle sides, allowing planter to cup onto the rail. Thinking of the rail as a track, fit the planter on top and slide it into place. Premanufactured saddle planters are also available from garden and home supply stores.

Mini Terra Cotta

• Adhere mini terra cotta pots to the top rail and plant one plant in each one to create a staccato-like sequence of plants along the rail. Purchase terra cotta pots with tray widths matching the width of the top deck rail. Arrange the terra cotta pots on the fence, as desired. Glue the trays to the deck rail and the pots to the trays with waterproof construction adhesive to keep them in place. Leave the adhesive to fully dry before planting.