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Concrete Planter

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Updated May 28, 2026

Learn how to make a DIY concrete planter with simple materials and step-by-step instructions. Create a durable, modern planter for indoor or outdoor plants while adding custom style to your home or garden.

Skill

Beginner

Time

Few Hours

Concrete planter

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Items may be Special Order in some stores. Product costs, availability, and item numbers may vary online or by market. Paint colors may vary slightly from those shown. Availability varies by market for lumber species and sizes.

Key Takeaways

  • Gather all materials and tools before starting, including concrete mix, buckets or forms, cooking spray, duct tape and safety gear like gloves and eye protection.
  • Use two containers or buckets — one larger and one smaller — to create the planter mold and cavity. Coat the molds with cooking spray so the concrete releases easily after curing. 
  • Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s directions until it reaches a thick, workable consistency that holds its shape without being too dry or runny.
  • Press the smaller mold into the wet concrete to form the planter opening, and use rocks, sand or bricks to hold it in place while the concrete sets.
  • Remove air bubbles by lightly tapping or vibrating the mold, which helps create a smoother finished surface. 
  • Allow the concrete to cure fully before removing the molds, then drill drainage holes if needed to keep plants healthy.
  • Customize the finished planter with paint, house numbers or decorative touches to match your outdoor space or style.

Building the Planter

Before you begin this project, learn how to mix concrete by hand.

Step 1

Gather your forms (we used 3- and 5-gallon buckets). Use cooking spray to coat the inside of the large bucket and the outside of the small bucket.

Step 2

Mix concrete in a tub (wear rubber gloves and a mask) following package directions.

Step 3

Pour the mixture into the large bucket to about the halfway mark. Slide the small bucket into the center of the large bucket and push down to within 2 inches of the bottom.

Step 4

Use bricks, stones, or sand to weight the small bucket. Secure the weighted small bucket with duct tape so it doesn't rise.

Step 5

Remove the weights after 48 hours. Slit the inside of the small bucket and remove. Slit the outside of the large bucket and remove.

Step 6

Use a masonry bit to drill a hole in the side or bottom of the container for drainage.

Concrete Planter FAQs