PATIO PLANTER

If you're looking for a way to bring life and color to your patio or deck without committing to permanent planting, this easy-to-move patio planter might be your new favorite build.

We recently put one together to dress up our outdoor space, and we love how it turned out—stylish, sturdy, and incredibly functional. The best part? You can use pre-potted plants, which makes swapping out seasonal flowers or herbs a breeze.

Why This Planter Is Smarter Than It Looks

At first glance, it looks like a traditional dirt-filled planter, but inside, it’s designed to hold standard nursery pots—up to 11" in diameter and 10-1/2" high. That means no messy planting, no root damage, and no struggle when it’s time to move or replant.

Want to keep that earthy look? Just tuck in some wood chips, mulch, or bark around the pots to complete the illusion of a fully planted bed.

Plus, the thoughtful construction includes:

• Drainage holes drilled into the base to prevent standing water

• 1/4" gaps between sideboards for airflow, so your mulch stays dry and your plants stay happy

• Custom sizing options to fit your space, pots, or layout needs

What You'll Learn While You Build

This project is perfect for intermediate woodworkers ready to tackle something a bit larger without diving into complex joinery. Along the way, you’ll practice:

• Measuring and templating for precise cuts and pot placement

• Crosscutting and assembly using simple screws

• Spacing boards for ventilation and functional design

• Custom-sizing a project to match a specific space or layout

And of course, once the build is done, you'll learn how to finish it with a protective outdoor stain or sealant to keep the wood looking great all season long.

Perfect for Every Outdoor Space

We placed ours along the edge of our patio, but this planter works great:

• On a deck or balcony to add greenery without digging

• By the front steps as a welcoming touch

• On a backyard fence line for added privacy and beauty

• In an herb garden setup for easy kitchen access

Build one to start—or create a series in different lengths for a beautiful custom look.

This patio planter is proof that you don’t have to break your back (or the bank) to elevate your outdoor space. It’s a satisfying project that blends form and function—and gives your green thumb a lot more flexibility.

If you’re ready to bring some life to your patio, deck, or porch, this is a project worth digging into.