Balcony planter

DIY project from NZ Gardener magazine

This easy project is great for keen gardeners with limited space.

How to make a balcony planter

Hang the planter over your balcony, and plant out with your favourite herbs or plants.

You will need

Materials:

4.8 linear metre (lm) of soft wood measuring 200mm wide and 20mm deep. NZ Oregon is being used for this project.
30 x 65mm stainless steel screws
Resene Woodsman penetrating oil stain for exterior use

Note:

Always use untreated timber where edible plants will be grown – never use treated timber due to the leaching of toxins.

Tools:

Measuring tape and pencil
Drop saw
Skill saw
Sliding square
Sandpaper
Drill and 4.5mm bit for pilot holes
Square drill bit for screws
Paintbrush

Health & Safety:

When using power tools, use goggles and ear defenders, and ensure all jewellery is tucked away, hair tied back and don’t wear loose clothing that may get tangled.

Cut list:

Back and middle panel: 800mm x 200mm
Front panel: 800mm x 160mm
Top panel: 800mm x 180mm (this is for a balcony top measuring 140mm)
Bottom panel: 760mm x 130mm
2 side panels: 140mm x 130mm

Cost:

$30 for timber and screws, excluding Resene products.

Instructions

Learn how to make a balcony planter for your garden:

Measure the width of the top of your balcony, and cut the timbers to size. This balcony measures 140mm, and 20mm is added to each side for the timbers; this will make the top 180mm wide.
Place timbers together and make sure they all line up and fit together.
Measure out for screws, and mark ready for the pilot holes. These are placed evenly along each joining side at 10mm in from the edge. Always keep away from the corners to prevent cracking the timber.
Drill the pilot holes ready for the screws. Screw the front box together. Place the back and top, and screw together. Sand edges if necessary.
The planter is ready for staining. I have used Resene Exterior Stain in Nutmeg. Hang the planter over your balcony, and plant out with your favourite herbs or plants.

Balcony planter - Step 1 Step 1

Balcony planter - Step 1a Step 1a

Balcony planter - Step 2 Step 2

Balcony planter - Step 3 Step 3

Balcony planter - Step 4 Step 4

Balcony planter - Step 4a Step 4a

Balcony planter - Step 4b Step 4b

Balcony planter - Step 5 Step 5

Balcony planter - in situ Finished project

Project: Jane Horne and partner Simon Bartholomew design and develop projects from their studio (plainandsimple.co.nz) in Christchurch, managing projects throughout the South Island

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Resene Paints Ltd – www.resene.com