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This step by step diy project is about tree planter plans. I have designed this simple wood planter so you can keep your decorative trees in a good shape and style. If you are looking for a large planter for your backyard or front porch, take a look over these instructions. Take a look over the rest of my woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.
When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.
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Projects made from these plans
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Tree Planter Plans
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Cut & Shopping Lists
- A – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 22″ long LEGS
- B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 22″ long, 2 pieces – 19″ long 2xFRAME
- C – 16 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 20″ long WALLS
- D – 4 piece of 2×6 lumber – 22″ long BOTTOM
- E – 4 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 26″ long TRIMS
- 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8′
- 5 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 8′
- 1 piece of 2×2 lumber – 8′
- 1 piece of 1×4 lumber – 10′
- 100 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws, 2″ brad nails
- wood glue, stain/paint, wood filler
Tools
 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level
 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander
 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses
Time
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Building a tree wood planter
The first step of the project is to build the two frames for the wood planter box. As you can easily notice in the diagram, I recommend you to cut the components from 2×4 lumber at the right dimensions. Drill pilot holes through the 22″ long components and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the perpendicular components. Add glue to the joints and make sure the corners are square.
Next, attach the 2×6 decking to the bottom frame. Align the edges with attention and leave no gaps between the slats. Drill pilot holes at both ends of the slats and secure them into place with 2 1/2″ screws. Don’t forget to drill drainage holes through the bottom of the planter.
Continue the project by fitting the side walls to the two frames. Cut the 2×6 slats at 20″, drill pilot holes at both ends and secure them to the frames using 2 1/2″ screws. Countersink the head of the screws for a professional result. In addition, make sure the corners are right angled for a neat appearance.
Build the four legs for the planter from 2×2 lumber. Smooth the edges with sandpaper and attach them to the corners of the planter with glue and 2 1/2″ screws.
Last but not least, I recommend you to attach 1×4 or 2×4  trims to the top of the tree planter. Cut both ends of the trims at 45 degrees using a good miter saw. Align the edges with attention and secure the trims into place with waterproof glue and 2 1/2″ brad nails. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.
Fill the holes and the dents with wood putty and let it dry out for a couple of hours. Smooth the planter with 120-220 grit sandpaper before applying the paint or stain. Seal everything with a few coats of spar varnish, to protect the wood from the elements.
If you want to fill the planter with soil and not use a container, then I recommend you to invest in weather resistant lumber (redwood, cedar) and not apply any substances on the wood.
This planter box is ideal for decorative trees or even large flowers. The outdoor planter box has a nice appearance making it a good choice irrespective of the style of your garden furniture. If you build these, I would love to see your project.
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This woodworking project was about free tree planter plans. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.
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7 comments
If the base is 22″ square and the decking is 2 x 6 (4 of) that would be 24″ by 22″
Does that mean that the deck boards overhang the base?
Cheers
No. It means the 2x6s are actually 1 1/2″ x 5 1/2″. Take a look over this table: http://myoutdoorplans.com/imperial-to-metric-conversion/
Ah, my timber yard seems to have provided spot on 2 x 6. Will have to cut it down as the upright sides won’t fit right.
Cheers
Can you tell me if you have tried to design this planter with heavy duty casters fastened to each corner and shortening the corner leg pieces flush with the base? Thank you.
That will work. I haven’t tried that yet.
Can I purchase just this plan?
I need to make 3 or 4 tree planters over the early spring for some trees that the wife is wanting to get.
And I really like the plans you have here, very simple and easy to scale up. I will be doing 36″ X 36″ planter boxes sitting on a polymer A/C base.
Please advise & Thank you,
Pete C.
Read this: https://myoutdoorplans.com/faq/