A ‘Concrete’ Guide to Making Planters That Will Last for Years

ForRent.com
by ForRent.com
Are you ready to tackle your summer DIY gardening projects? One of our favorites is making your own concrete planters.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Concrete planters are great for plants. They are more durable than wood and plastic containers, which can rot and become fragile over time. They are also less likely to tip over and can protect the soil from temperature fluctuations. Best of all, they are easy to make and fun to create and design.


So, lets get started!


A complete checklist is provided below. You’ll need concrete, various plastic containers for your molds and non-stick spray. You can use metal containers, but plastic ones make it easier to extract the molds. Also grab smaller containers that will fit inside the larger containers, making sure there is at least a 2-inch gap to create a planter.


Step 2: Wash Containers and Coat With Non-Stick Spray
Step 3: Mix Concrete
Put down a drop cloth to protect the ground/flooring from spills and wear gloves while mixing the concrete. Stir until it reaches a pudding-like consistency; you can add color to the mix if desired. Concrete sets fast, so have your containers ready to go.
Step 4: Pour Concrete Into Containers
Fill the larger container up halfway with concrete, then place a smaller container inside and wiggle it until air pockets are removed and the concrete reaches the top of the outer container. (Careful not to push the smaller container all the way down so your planter has a solid base.) Allow the concrete to dry according to the package directions with the inner container left inside.
Step 5: Remove Molds
When the concrete is fully dry, remove the inner and outer molds. Be patient and gently tap the containers to encourage the planter to come out.
Step 6: Decorate Your Planter
Now it’s time to decorate your planter. We like using painter’s tape and spray paint to create fun designs.
Spray paint on planter
Dress it up any way you like: freehand paint, glue-on decorations or raw for a more industrial look.
Once the paint is dry, remove the tape
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Before you put the plant in the planter, place some drainage rock or pebbles in the bottom.
Finished concrete planters
You can use your new flower pot for plants, storage, birdbaths or whatever you can imagine. Once you’ve added the finishing touches, proudly display your new project for your neighbors and friends to enjoy!


Supply Checklist:


Concrete or Quikcrete


Bucket for mixing the concrete


Molds (Any plastic flower pot or bowl will do, though it is likely to be stained or cracked during the process. Larger pots will be used to form the outer side of the planter, while smaller pots will form the space inside the planter.)


Water


Coloring (Optional; concrete coloring can be bought at home supply stores.)


Non-stick cooking spray


A garden trowel or spoon


Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  1 question
  • Smc2409141 Smc2409141 on Jun 28, 2016
    Is there any way to make a drainage hole in the pot. I don't have luck with just drainage rocks. Plants always get waterlogged if there isn't a drainage hole?
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