DIY Cedar Planter Box for Beginners

Cedar Planters That Last for Years

Cedar is the best wood for outdoor planters — it naturally resists rot and insects without chemical treatment. This simple box design uses basic butt joints and screws, so a complete beginner can build it in an afternoon.

This plan makes a planter 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches deep — perfect for herbs, flowers, or a small vegetable patch on a patio.

Tools You'll Need

  • Miter saw or circular saw
  • Drill/driver with bits
  • Tape measure, pencil, speed square
  • Sandpaper (120 grit)
  • Clamps (optional)

Materials

  • 3 — 1x6 x 8 ft cedar fence pickets or boards
  • 1 — 2x2 x 8 ft cedar (for corner legs)
  • 1 1/4 in exterior wood screws (stainless or coated)
  • Wood glue (waterproof, like Titebond III)
  • Landscaping fabric
  • Exterior wood oil or sealer (optional)

Cut List

PartQtySize
Long sides61x6 x 24 in
Short sides61x6 x 10 1/2 in
Corner legs42x2 x 14 in
Bottom slats31x6 x 10 1/2 in

Step-by-Step Build

1. Cut all pieces

Crosscut everything per the cut list. Cedar cuts easily, so support long boards well to avoid tear-out at the end of cuts.

2. Build the two long sides

Lay three 24-inch boards flat, edge to edge, and attach them with glue plus screws through into the corner legs at each end. The legs sit inside the corners and extend 2 inches below the box to act as feet.

3. Add the short sides

Attach the 10 1/2-inch boards to the legs the same way, three high per side, completing the box. Check that the box is square before driving all screws home.

4. Install the bottom slats

Lay the three bottom slats across the inside, resting on the lowest side boards, with small gaps between them for drainage. Screw them in place.

5. Line and finish

Line the inside with landscaping fabric (staple it near the top) to keep soil in while letting water drain. Apply an exterior oil finish if you want a richer color — or leave it bare and let it weather to a natural silver-gray.

Planter Tips

  • Drainage is everything. Gaps between bottom slats plus fabric keep roots from sitting in water.
  • Use exterior screws. Regular screws rust and stain the wood within one season.
  • Don't use treated lumber for edibles. Cedar is naturally safe — that's why this plan uses it.

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