Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a 3-Tier Wooden Planter

Vertical Planter project hero

Save your back and add a beautiful vertical planter to your garden or yard. This one uses simple cuts and solid joinery, and you can build it the size you require.


Materials and Tools Needed

Before you begin, gather your materials and tools so assembly goes smoothly.

Materials:

Material Quantity
1x6x8' Red or Yellow Cedar 28 Boards
2x2x8' (posts) 4 Posts
1x2x8' 6 Boards
#8, 2" Deck Screws 96 Screws
#8, 1-1/2" Deck Screws 36 Screws
Landscape Cloth 1 Roll

Tools:

  • Miter saw or circular saw
  • #8 Robertson driver
  • #8 countersink drill bit
  • Staple gun
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil

Cut Plans:

Vertical Planter cut diagram

Top View

Top View

Side View

Side View

 


 

Step-by-Step Build Instructions

  • Step 1: Clean Up the Boards
    Trim 1/4" from the ends to create clean, square start edges.

  • Step 2: Cut All Pieces to Length
    Cut all boards to the indicated lengths based on the diagram with your saw.

  • Step 3: Pre-Drill and Countersink
    The horizontal board ends are flush with the centers of the vertical pieces. Pre-drill all screw holes with a #8 countersink bit.

  • Step 4: Assemble the Frame
    Secure the main frame with #8, 2" deck screws. Secure bottom supports with #8, 1-1/2" screws. Box bottoms can float or be nailed with a small nail.

  • Step 5: Line the Boxes
    Staple landscape cloth inside each box, or use plastic planter inserts if desired.

Final Thoughts

This is a space-saving way to grow herbs, flowers, or greens. This weathering cedar planter is beautiful outside and can be trimmed to suit your deck, patio, or garden.

Download Plans


Show off your project!

Send a few pictures of your project and a description to this email address: projects@windsorplywood.com

Once your project is received, it will be prepared by the Blog crew and scheduled for the next Monday morning posting. Thanks for sharing!