How to Build a Wooden Planter Box with Integrated Trellis
A wooden planter box with an integrated trellis is a functional and aesthetic addition to any garden, patio, or balcony. It provides a sturdy container for plants while offering vertical support for climbing vines, flowers, or vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers. Building one yourself is a rewarding woodworking project that doesn’t require advanced skills. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own wooden planter box with a trellis.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- Wood boards (cedar or redwood is ideal for outdoor durability)
- Wood screws (weather-resistant)
- Exterior wood glue
- Galvanized nails or brad nails
- Lattice panels or wooden slats for the trellis
- Landscape fabric (to line the planter)
- Stain or outdoor sealant
- Potting soil and plants
Tools:
- Saw (circular saw or miter saw)
- Drill and bits
- Measuring tape
- Clamps
- Sander or sandpaper
- Hammer or nail gun
- Paintbrush (for stain or sealant)
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Before cutting any wood, determine the size of your planter box. A common size is 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 24 inches high, but you can adjust based on your space and needs. The trellis should extend at least 3 feet above the planter for adequate plant support.
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Use your saw to cut the following pieces:
Planter Box:
- (2) Side panels: 36″ x 18″
- (2) Front and back panels: 24″ x 18″
- (1) Bottom panel: 36″ x 24″
- (4) Corner posts: 24″ long
Trellis Frame:
- (2) Vertical posts: 60″ long
- (2) Horizontal crossbars: 36″ long
Trellis Grid (Optional):
- Lattice panel or wooden slats cut to fit within the frame
Step 3: Assemble the Planter Box
Attach the Side Panels to the Corner Posts
- Position the side panels between the corner posts.
- Apply wood glue along the edges.
- Secure with screws or nails using a drill or nail gun.
Attach the Front and Back Panels
- Position them between the corner posts.
- Secure with screws and wood glue.
Install the Bottom Panel
- Lay the bottom panel inside the box frame.
- Secure it using screws along the edges.
- Drill small drainage holes in the bottom to prevent water buildup.
Step 4: Build the Trellis
Create the Trellis Frame
- Attach the two vertical posts to the back of the planter box.
- Secure with screws, ensuring they extend above the planter box for plant support.
Attach the Horizontal Crossbars
- Position one crossbar at the top of the vertical posts.
- Attach another crossbar in the middle for extra stability.
Add the Trellis Grid (Optional)
- If using a lattice panel, attach it to the trellis frame using nails or screws.
- If making a wooden slat grid, space the slats evenly and secure them with nails.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
- Sand all surfaces to remove rough edges.
- Apply an outdoor wood sealant or stain for weather resistance.
- Let it dry completely before use.
Step 6: Line and Fill the Planter
Line the Interior with Landscape Fabric
- Staple it to the inner walls to prevent soil from escaping.
Add Potting Soil
- Fill the planter with nutrient-rich potting soil.
Plant Your Climbing Plants
- Choose climbing flowers, vegetables, or vines and plant them near the trellis.
Final Thoughts
Building a wooden planter box with an integrated trellis enhances your garden’s functionality and beauty. This DIY project is simple, cost-effective, and can be customized to fit any outdoor space. Once completed, you’ll have a durable and attractive home for climbing plants.
For more woodworking projects, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking.