How to Build an Outdoor Planter

• For herbs and small plants, small rectangular or long vertical designs are great.
• For vegetables, big square or rectangular planters are best, giving them space to grow.
• It is important to include strong vertical support for climbers in your planter. Climbers, like vines, add aesthetic appeal to your garden. 

• After deciding the dimensions of your planter.
• Mark the measurements on the wooden plank using a pencil or marker.
• You can use a miter saw to cut the planks in the desired size, saving time.  
• Cut four thick vertical planks to the height of the planter; they will help make it sturdy.
• For a medium-sized planter: Vertical planks: 24 inches (2 feet) in height. Horizontal planks: 18 inches long for the sides.

After smoothing the planks, assemble them step-by-step. 

• After smoothing the wooden planks, lay two vertical planks flat on the ground, side by side. These will form the sides of your planter box.

• Attach the Base
• Place a horizontal plank across at the bottom of the vertical planks. Secure it using screws and a screwdriver.
• Secure with C-clamps at each corner. This will hold the corners steady while you fasten the base to prevent movement during assembly.
• Build the Second Side
• Lay two vertical planks parallel to each other without any gaps. Position one horizontal plank across the bottom edges.  
• Drive 2 screws through vertical into horizontal plank at each joint. 
• Repeat the process with the remaining two vertical planks and attach another horizontal plank at their base. This will create the second side of your planter box.
• Assemble the Frame
• Stand the two completed sides upright and position them parallel to each other. 
• Use two additional horizontal planks to connect the bases of both sides, forming a sturdy rectangular frame.  
• Create the Walls
• Begin attaching horizontal planks one at a time to all four sides of the structure, starting from the bottom and working your way up. This will build the walls of the planter box.
• Stabilize the Structure
• Once all the horizontal planks are in place and the walls are complete, carefully remove the clamps. Ensure the structure is stable and holds its shape.
• Inspect every joint and screw to confirm they are tight and secure. Reinforce any loose connections to ensure the planter box is sturdy and long-lasting. 

If you want the planter to be movable, attach four wheels or wooden legs at the bottom of the planter. Elevating the planter will also help with proper air circulation, whether indoors or outdoors.

A proper drainage system in planters is necessary to prevent decay and rot in roots.

• For planters with an elevated wooden base, use a drill machine to drill 2-4 holes at the bottom and 5-7 if the planter is larger.
• If the planter is on the ground, have a raised bed beneath it.

Sealing the planter is essential to protect it from moisture, mold and pests, whether the climate is humid or dry.

• Use a water-resistant exterior wood sealant. Apply it with a roller or a brush, making sure it reaches the corners and inner edges.
• Allow the sealant to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. 
• To decorate and personalize your planter, you can use waterproof paint or wood stain, which will provide a natural look. 
• Now, you can add the soil and plants of your choice. 
• And finally, you have created a beautiful and durable planter that will enhance your outdoor space for years to come.