How to Build a Planter Box

Materials needed:

• Eight 6”x6” or 4”x6” treated lumber posts for a two-post high planter box
• Approx. 24 coated deck screws or other exterior wood screws or lag bolts
• STIHL MSA 120 C-BQ chainsaw
• Set of sawhorses
• Tie-downs or bungee cords
• Impact drill
• Weed block fabric
• Commercial stapler
• Gravel or rock
• Quality soil and mulch

Always read, understand and follow the instructions in your product’s instruction manual before beginning work. Be sure to use proper protective apparel:

• Helmet System
• Eye Protection
• Work Gloves
• Chaps

Begin your planter box by establishing the desired finished height, length and width. For the purposes of this video, we will use a two-post-high design.

1. Measure and mark posts carefully. Using safe cutting techniques and the appropriate protective apparel, use the chainsaw to cut four posts to match your specifications for the width of the planter box. Then cut four additional posts to equal the length of the planter box.
• NOTE: Prior to cutting each post, secure it to a waist-high cutting support system (like a set of sawhorses) using tie-downs or bungee cords.
2. Lay posts out for the first layer according to your length and width specifications. Be sure the corners are “square,” then use an impact drill to drive screws through each corner.
3. Once all four corners are secure, set the posts for the second layer over the first. Arrange the posts so that the corners overlap in the opposite direction as the first layer (reference :30 into the video). Again, drive screws into posts, this time on the opposite corner as the first layer.
4. Connect the top layer of posts to the bottom layer with screws, approximately two screws per side, depending on overall length and width.
5. Line the “floor” and the entire insides of your planter frame with weed block fabric to help minimize the growth of weeds and grass in your planter. Use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the wood.
6. Cover the weed block fabric with roughly two inches of small- to medium-sized gravel to help with drainage and hold the fabric in place. Cover the stones with another layer of fabric to promote good drainage and to prevent soil from washing into the gravel. Complete by filling with a good quality soil.
7. Add plants, leaving space for growth between. Add mulch to help retain moisture longer. Water the plants and enjoy all season long!