How to Build a Lattice Planter Box

Plan your lattice planters depending on plant selection and space requirements. Aim for small 2-foot-long planters or larger 4- to 5-foot long planters, with widths of 2 to 4 feet. Cut two 2- to 4-foot long sections of wooden lattice for the sides of your planter, and two 2- to 3-foot long sections for the ends. Cut one section for the bottom, to match your chosen dimensions (for example, 1 foot wide by 3 feet long, etc).

Cut sections of fine mesh or screen to match your lattice sections. The mesh keeps soil in the planter while maintaining the look of the lattice. Staple the mesh pieces to the lattice to "seal" the inside of the planter.

Cut 12 to 15 4-inch pieces of wire for tying the lattice. Stand one side piece of lattice up, with one end piece at its end at a right angle. Tie the ends of the pieces together at top and bottom with the wire to form one side and one end of the planter. Repeat the process with the other side and end pieces to produce the outer frame of the planter. Use pliers to secure wire as necessary.

Place the bottom piece of lattice on the box frame and secure it with wire to form the bottom of the planter. Tie the wire on the bottom piece at every 4 inches and cut more wire as necessary.

Turn the planter over and place it in your chosen location. Line the bottom of the planter with newspaper or cardboard to keep soil from leaking out during watering. Fill the planter three-quarters full of potting mix or produce your own mix with 1 part garden loam to 1 part organic compost. Add 5-10-10 fertilizer for good starting nutrition.