This project is by Ale from Ale’s Everyday, who created a sleek and functional modern raised garden planter. If you’re looking for a stylish way to grow plants while enhancing your outdoor space, be sure to check out Ale’s YouTube channel for the full build process and more DIY ideas.
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Why Build a Raised Garden Planter?
A raised planter offers several benefits for gardeners. It improves drainage, keeps soil contained, and allows for easier access to plants without bending over.
By incorporating a modern design, this project creates a visually appealing planter that blends well with any patio or backyard setup. The raised structure also helps protect plants from pests and makes garden maintenance more convenient.
Planning the Build
Ale started by determining the planter’s dimensions based on available space and personal preference. While sizes can vary, a common choice is around three feet wide and nine inches deep.
To achieve a seamless look, the structure was designed using glue-ups with uniform boards. This ensured clean lines and a polished finish, giving the planter its modern aesthetic.
Constructing the Frame
The planter frame plays a key role in both stability and design. Ale built a simple square frame that allowed the planter to sit snugly inside, slightly offset for a more modern appearance.
The height of the frame can be customized to fit different needs. Some variations include adding a bottom shelf for extra storage or adjusting the clearance based on plant type.
Preparing the Planter Panels
Once the wood was cut to size, Ale created three long panels for the front, back, and bottom, along with two shorter panels for the sides. These pieces were glued together and left to dry before moving to the next step.
While the panels were setting, Ale worked on the legs and support beams separately. Keeping these elements independent during assembly ensured a precise and sturdy final fit.
Crafting the Legs and Supports
To create strong legs, Ale milled down two-by-fours, cutting off the rounded edges to form uniform square pieces. Each leg was measured and cut for consistency before being attached with countersunk screws.
For extra durability, pilot holes were drilled before fastening the supports. This method helped prevent wood splitting and ensured all connections were secure.
Addressing Gaps and Imperfections
During assembly, minor gaps or surface imperfections were filled using homemade wood putty. By mixing sawdust with wood glue, Ale achieved a natural-looking filler that blended seamlessly with the surrounding wood.
Smoothing out these details before final sanding helped create a professional finish, ensuring the planter looked as refined as possible.
Final Assembly and Stability
Once all components were ready, the planter box was assembled using pilot holes and screws. Care was taken to keep the panels tightly joined, while still allowing for proper drainage at the bottom.
Additional support pieces were cut and installed to reinforce the frame. These supports were critical in bearing the weight of the soil and plants while keeping the planter stable over time.
Finishing Touches
To complete the build, Ale thoroughly sanded all surfaces, removing any rough edges for a smooth, polished look. The frame was then primed and painted in matte black, adding a striking contrast against the natural wood.
For the planter box itself, a high-quality deck stain was applied to seal the wood. This provided moisture protection and ensured the planter would hold up well against outdoor conditions.
A Stylish and Functional Planter
The final result was a sleek and durable raised garden planter, perfect for growing vegetables, herbs, or decorative plants. Its modern design made it a standout feature in the garden while maintaining practical functionality.
If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your outdoor space, this planter is a great weekend project. Ale’s design keeps it simple while delivering a professional-looking result.