This modern trellis with hanging planter boxes was created by Rad Dad Builds, and it’s a fantastic addition to any garden or patio space.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Clear Cedar Lumber (or regular cedar, fur, spruce, or pine)
- 10 – 2x4s at 10 feet in length
- 4-5 – 1x8s at 10 feet in length
- Stainless steel pins or deck screws
- Exterior grade polyurethane
- Wood stain (e.g., Benjamin Moore Arborcoat Natural)
- Wagner Flexio 4000 Sprayer (optional, for staining)
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
Start by selecting your materials. For this project, I recommend using clear cedar for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Measure out the lumber needed for your trellis and planter boxes. You will need about ten 2x4s and four to five 1x8s.
Step 2: Cut the Lumber
Cut the 2x4s in half to create five-foot long pieces for the width of your trellis. Then, rip each piece into three one-inch strips using a table saw.
Step 3: Create the Support Structure
Set aside two of the 2x4s to act as your support pieces. Stain these black so they blend into the background when mounted on the wall. Attach these to the wall where you plan to hang your trellis, ensuring they are secured into the studs.
Step 4: Build the Planter Boxes
Construct planter boxes from the 1×8 cedar. Cut the ends at a five-degree angle and ensure the bottom is also seven and a half inches wide to allow for a snug fit of the 1x8s inside. Drill drainage holes in each box to prevent rot.
Step 5: Assemble the Trellis
Once the planter boxes are ready, return to the trellis. Attach the slats to the support pieces using a one-inch spacer to maintain consistent gaps. Sand the entire structure to smooth out any rough edges.
Step 6: Attach Planter Boxes
To attach the planter boxes, glue and screw one-inch strips to the back of each box. Position them in the gaps of the trellis and secure them with screws from the top.
Step 7: Stain and Finish
For a polished look, use a quality exterior stain like Benjamin Moore’s Arborcoat. Using a sprayer can make this process much easier and more efficient.
Step 8: Mount and Add Plants
Once everything is dry, mount the trellis on the wall by screwing it into the studs. Attach the planter boxes according to your desired arrangement and fill them with your favorite plants.
And there you have it! A beautiful modern trellis with hanging planter boxes that adds a pop of greenery to your outdoor space. Thanks to Rad Dad Builds for this amazing project idea!
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