Building Planter Boxes

Make a frame for your planter box. Cut four pieces of 2-by-2 lumber for upright corners. The length of these corner pieces should be equal to the depth of your finished planter box. Cut eight pieces of 2-by-2 lumber to frame the upper and lower edges of the box. The eight pieces should be equal to the horizontal length of the sides of your finished planter box.

Lay out the pieces for one side of the planter box. Use the "L" angle brackets and screws to secure the horizontal frame pieces to the upright frame pieces. Secure the framing for two sides first, using two corner pieces and two horizontal pieces for each side. Then use "L" brackets to secure the remaining four horizontal pieces to join together the completed sides, creating a box frame.

Cut plywood or boards to fit the side areas and bottom of your planter box frame. Arrange the boards vertically, horizontally or create a pattern of diagonals. Nail or screw the boards to the frame.

Finish the planter box by nailing or screwing on simple flat boards around the upper edge. An optional edge finish is to use an "L" molding. Consider using small rolling casters on the bottom corners of a large planter box to make it easier to move.

Stain or paint the planter box.

Line the box with heavy plastic sheeting, if desired, before filling the planter with your favorite potting soil and plants.