A wooden planter is one of many fantastic wood craft ideas for adults. Simple to build, useful all year round and easy to personalise. Whether you’re growing herbs, flowers or veg, this is a practical project that delivers big satisfaction.

At Oxford Wood Recycling, we’re all about giving reclaimed wood a new purpose. With our rescued timber and timber seconds, you’re well on your way to creating a beautiful planter box — without breaking the bank or the planet.

What You’ll Need:

• Reclaimed timber (we recommend scaffold boards or pallet wood)
• Exterior wood screws
• (Optional) Landscape fabric or liner
• A saw (manual or electric)
• Drill or impact driver
• Measuring tape
• Sandpaper or electric sander
• Exterior wood stain or paint (optional)

Need a tool? Borrow what you need from our Library of Tools — high-quality tools at affordable prices.

Step-by-Step: DIY Wooden Planter Box

Decide on Your Size

Start by figuring out where your planter will live and what you’ll grow in it.

• Herb box: 60cm x 30cm x 30cm (Length x Width x Height)
• Veg or flower planter: 90–120cm long, 40–60cm wide, 40cm tall Make sure it’s deep enough for root growth and has space for drainage at the bottom.

✏️ Sketch a rough plan with your measurements — double-check it against your available space and timber.

Cut Your Wood

You’ll need:

• 2 long side panels
• 2 short end panels
• A base (several slats or a solid board with drainage gaps)
• Optional: Corner supports (internal battens)

. Our team can help you select and even pre-cut pieces to get you started.

Assemble the Frame

• Screw the short ends between the longer sides to form a rectangle.
• Reinforce the corners with battens or small interior blocks for added strength.
• Make sure everything is square — measure diagonally across the box; both measurements should match.

🛠️ Optional: Use exterior adhesive at joints for extra durability.

Fit the Base

• Use multiple slats or one solid piece with drainage holes.
• Screw the base into the lower edge of the frame.
• Leave small gaps (5–10mm) between slats if using multiple boards for natural drainage.

✨ Advanced idea: Slightly raise the base off the ground using leftover timber feet for improved airflow and drainage.

Line & Fill

• Staple in landscape fabric or a plastic liner with drainage holes to protect the wood and retain soil.
• Add a layer of gravel or stones at the bottom before filling with compost.

Sand & Finish

• Smooth rough edges and surfaces with sandpaper.
• Finish with an outdoor stain, oil, or paint to weatherproof and personalise your planter.

🌿 We offer range of finishes that are perfect for adding a pop of personality.

💡 Tips from Our Workshop:

• Use offcuts for small planters or mini herb boxes.
• Create multiple planters in different sizes for a tiered look.
• Add handles or wheels for easy movement.
• Paint the inside edge in a contrasting colour for a fun detail.
• Don’t forget to pre-drill holes to avoid splitting the wood!

Ready to Get Planting?

Pop into Oxford Wood Recycling to explore our rescued wood selection and chat with our friendly team. We’ll help you get everything you need to build a planter box you’ll love for years to come.