DIY Pallet Planter

5 Materials
$5
90 Minutes
Easy

After upcycling a couple of timber pallets into vertical planters for a Garden Expo display recently, I thought I'd share the steps to make one + some ways you can use them. I used both sides of each pallet and for this project, they both lent themselves to 6 mini window boxes where I could sit small pot plants but they can just as easily be widened to fit larger rectangular pots in the same space. If you want to follow the steps in my tutorial you can find lots of photos and how to do it at http://themicrogardener.com/diy-pallet-planter/. Like any pallet project, it's important to remember to choose pallets that are not chemically treated - I share tips on this subject at the end of my post on '20 Creative Ways to Upcycle Pallets in Your Garden' - https://themicrogardener.com/20-creative-ways-to-upcycle-pallets-in-your-garden/ which also shows you how to dismantle a pallet and lots of other useful tips on working with pallets. The only real cost for this project was the paint and screws as the pallets and palings were free and we had some star pickets in the shed. To buy steel star pickets new they cost around A$15 but last a lifetime. Hooks are optional and you can use whatever suits your taste and budget. I'd love to know if you've made one of these too!

This is the original underside of the pallet but I've used this side to create 6 mini planter boxes with 4 x 100mm (3in) pots.
This is the reverse side or top of the original pallet. Just painted and used as a 'fence' to dress up and hang garden art from.
I added decorative garden hooks to hang this upcycled handbag planter with succulents and other garden art.
The only structural change required was to add a couple of extra timber palings as 'shelves' for the window boxes. Hammer & nail made it easy.
For the garden expo display, I used a pallet planter at either end of the balcony garden to define the space. Cream reflects light and created an easy backdrop to add colour and accessories.
To secure the planter, I used 2 star pickets either end but you could just as easily add horizontal timber 'feet' at the base.
Suggested materials:
  • Old pallet
  • Screws
  • 3 Timber Palings
See all materials
The Micro Gardener - Anne
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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  1 question
  • Jane Moreno Jane Moreno on Oct 23, 2018

    Where do you buy pallets if you can’t find them in the trash or by the side of a road?

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  • Pamela Midkiff Pamela Midkiff on Sep 26, 2017

    ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS!!

  • Garfie Garfie on Mar 16, 2019

    I am already constructing these and making a property line fence to keep my dogs in and the neighbors donkeys out. They are pretty and free. I left them unpainted and planted wild flowers in them.

    • See 1 previous
    • Garfie Garfie on Mar 17, 2019

      I will send pictures and update about any insight I get doing the fence. I am constructing the "planter" fence sections now. I have to make about 200 - 4 foot sections.


      I am also using the project to train my new puppy for my ability team to listen to me and work side by side with me. She loves stealing the extra pallet boards and hiding them from me.

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