Build a beautiful wooden planter bench combo with these straightforward steps. This project combines a sturdy bench with integrated planters, perfect for adding charm and greenery to your garden or patio. We’ll guide you through planning, cutting, and assembly with simple instructions for a successful DIY build.
Building your own outdoor furniture can feel like a big step, but I’m here to help! A wooden planter bench combo is a fantastic project for beginners. It’s practical, looks great, and adds a lovely touch to your outdoor space. Imagine sitting on your custom bench, surrounded by colorful flowers or fresh herbs – it’s a real DIY win! Many folks worry about the complexity, but we’ll break it down into manageable steps. You’ll learn exactly what you need and how to put it all together, no woodworking degree required. Ready to get started on this rewarding project? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why Build a Wooden Planter Bench Combo?
This project is a winner for so many reasons. It’s a functional piece of furniture that also brings life and color to your yard. Think of the space-saving aspect too – a bench and planters in one neat package! Plus, building it yourself is incredibly satisfying and often more budget-friendly than buying a pre-made one.
Dual Functionality: It provides seating and a place for plants.
Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a beautiful focal point to gardens, patios, or decks.
Space Saving: Combines two elements into one structure.
Customization: You control the size, style, and type of wood.
Cost-Effective: Often cheaper to build than to buy.
Sense of Accomplishment: A great project for boosting DIY confidence.
Planning Your Planter Bench Combo
Before you even think about picking up a saw, good planning is key. This is where you decide the specifics, ensuring your bench will fit perfectly and function just the way you want it to.
Choosing Your Design and Size
Consider where your planter bench will live. Will it be against a wall? On a deck? Do you want it to be a long, multi-seater, or a cozy spot for two? The dimensions will depend on your space and needs. A standard bench height is usually around 17-19 inches, and a comfortable seat depth is about 16-20 inches.
For the planters, think about what you’ll grow. Small herbs might need shallower boxes, while larger shrubs or flowers will require deeper, wider planters.
Bench Size:
Length: 3-5 feet is common.
Height: 17-19 inches.
Depth: 16-20 inches.
Planter Box Size (per side):
Depth: 8-12 inches (depending on plants).
Width: 10-18 inches.
Length: Match these to the bench length, leaving space for the bench seat.
Selecting the Right Wood
The wood you choose will stand up to the elements and look great. Since this is an outdoor project, durability is crucial.
Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot and insects. It has a beautiful natural color and is relatively lightweight. It’s a popular choice for outdoor projects.
Redwood: Similar to cedar, it’s highly resistant to decay and insects. It has a rich, reddish-brown hue that’s very attractive.
Treated Pine: This wood has been chemically treated to resist rot and insects. It’s a more budget-friendly option. Look for lumber rated for ground contact if your planter boxes will be in direct contact with soil without a liner.
Cypress: Another excellent option with natural resistance to decay and insects. It has a distinct grain pattern.
Avoid using regular pine or fir for outdoor projects unless you plan to seal it thoroughly and use it in a very sheltered location, as they won’t last long against moisture and sun.
Here’s a quick look at common wood choices:
| Wood Type | Pros | Cons | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar | Naturally rot and insect resistant, Lightweight, Attractive appearance | Can be more expensive than treated pine | $$$ |
| Redwood | Excellent rot and insect resistance, Beautiful color | Often the most expensive option, Can be heavy | $$$$ |
| Treated Pine | Good rot and insect resistance, Budget-friendly | Can be prone to warping or cracking, Contains chemicals | $$ |
| Cypress | Good rot and insect resistance, Attractive grain | Availability can be limited in some regions | $$$ |
Creating a Cut List and Materials List
Once you have your design and dimensions, you’ll need to list out every single piece of wood you need to cut and all the hardware and supplies. This will save you a lot of trips to the store and prevent mistakes.
Example Cut List (for a bench 4ft long, 18in high, 18in deep, with two 1ft wide planters):
For the Bench Frame:
(2) 2x4s @ 48 inches (side supports for bench seat)
(2) 2x4s @ 15 inches (end supports for bench seat)
(1) 2×4 @ 45 inches (cleat for front/back of bench seat)
(1) 2×4 @ 45 inches (cleat for front/back of bench seat – optional, for extra support)
(1) 2×6 @ 48 inches (bench seat front)
(4) 2x6s @ 18 inches (bench seat back & sides – adjust length if seat overhangs)
For the Planter Boxes (per side – adjust lengths based on design):
(2) 2x6s @ 48 inches (long sides of planters)
(2) 2x6s @ 12 inches (short sides of planters)
(2) 1x6s (or deck boards) @ 48 inches (bottoms of planters)
For the Legs:
(4) 4×4 posts @ 17 inches (legs for the bench)
For the Planter Interior Supports:
(2) 2x4s @ approx. 30 inches (to span the bench width between planters)
Materials List:
Wood (as per your cut list)
Exterior wood screws (e.g., 2.5-inch and 1.5-inch)
Wood glue (exterior grade)
(Optional) Deck screws for planter bottoms
(Optional) Landscape fabric or heavy-duty plastic sheeting for planter liners
(Optional) Wood sealant or stain
Essential Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes the job easier and safer. Here are the basics for this project.
Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
Pencil: For marking cuts.
Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes!
Hearing Protection: If using power tools.
Circular Saw or Miter Saw: For making clean, straight cuts. A miter saw is great for precision.
Drill/Driver: For pre-drilling holes and driving screws.
Drill Bits: Various sizes for pre-drilling and countersinking.
Level: To ensure your bench is plumb and level.
Clamps: To hold pieces together while you fasten them.
Square: To ensure corners are 90 degrees.
Sander (orbital or belt) and Sandpaper: For smoothing rough edges.
Optional: Nail Gun (Brad or Finish Nailer): Can speed up assembly, especially for attaching trim or deck boards.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Planter Bench Combo
Let’s get building! We’ll start from the ground up, creating a sturdy frame and then adding the planters.
Step 1: Cut Your Lumber
Using your cut list and a miter saw or circular saw, carefully cut all your lumber to the specified lengths. Double-check your measurements before each cut. Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper. Safety first – wear your safety glasses and hearing protection!
Step 2: Build the Bench Legs and Frame
1. Prepare the Legs: Take your four 4×4 posts. You’ll likely want to attach them to the outside of the frame to provide sturdy support.
2. Build the Seat Frame: This is a simple rectangle. Using your 2x4s cut for the seat frame, create a rectangle that is the length and width of your bench top. For a 48-inch long bench, you’d connect two 48-inch pieces with two 15-inch pieces (assuming the side pieces will overhang the end pieces).
3. Attach the Top Cleats: Secure the 45-inch 2×4 cleats along the inside edges of the longer side pieces of your seat frame. These will support the bench seat boards.
4. Attach the Legs: Position the legs on the outside corners of the seat frame. You can butt them up against the frame or inset them slightly. Using long exterior screws (or lag bolts if you have them), attach each leg securely to the frame. Ensure the legs are square to the frame.
5. Add the Seat Boards: Lay your 2×6 bench seat boards across the top of the frame and cleats. Screw them into the cleats with 2.5-inch screws. Space them slightly apart for drainage, or butt them tightly depending on your preference.
Step 3: Construct the Planter Boxes
You’ll essentially be building two wooden boxes that sit on either side of the bench seat, or a longer box that wraps around one or both ends of the bench. Let’s assume two separate boxes for this guide, situated alongside the seat.
1. Assemble the Sides: Take the lumber for one planter box (e.g., two 48-inch 2x6s and two 12-inch 2x6s). Form a rectangular box. The longer pieces will be the sides, and the shorter pieces will be the ends.
2. Join the Corners: Use exterior wood glue and 2.5-inch screws to join the corners. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting. For added strength, you might want to attach the ends to the sides with screws going through the side pieces into the end pieces.
3. Add Bottom Support (Optional but Recommended): If your planter depth is significant and you want to support the bottom boards, you can add internal cleats. Cut small pieces of 2×4 and screw them along the inside bottom edges of the planter box sides.
4. Attach the Bottom: Place your bottom boards (e.g., 1x6s or deck boards) across the bottom. Secure them using 1.5-inch exterior screws or deck screws. Leave small gaps between the boards for drainage.
5. Repeat: Build the second planter box in the same way.
Step 4: Attach the Planter Boxes to the Bench
Position the completed planter boxes on either side of the bench. They should align with the bench seat.
1. Secure the Planters: You can attach the planter boxes directly to the bench legs or seat frame using exterior wood screws. For extra stability, consider adding 2×4 braces that run from the bench frame into the planter boxes.
2. Internal Spacers/Supports: If your planter boxes aren’t directly against the bench legs, you might need to add internal supports within the bench structure that the planter boxes can attach to. For instance, if the planters are flush with the bench seat, you can run a 2×4 horizontally between the legs, just above where the planter box will sit, and screw the planter box into that.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
This is where you make your planter bench combo look polished and ready for use.
1. Lining the Planters: To protect the wood from constant moisture and soil, and to prevent soil from washing out, line the inside of your planter boxes.
Plastic Sheeting: You can use thick plastic sheeting, but be sure to poke drainage holes in the bottom!
2. Sanding: Go over the entire bench, smoothing any sharp edges or rough spots.
3. Sealing or Staining (Optional but Recommended): Apply an exterior-grade wood sealant, stain, or paint to protect the wood from UV rays and moisture and to give it your desired look. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times. This is particularly important for treated pine to enhance its longevity.
For more comprehensive information on wood finishing, you can check out resources from organizations like the Forest Products Laboratory.
Step 6: Planting!
Your planter bench is ready for its green occupants! Fill your planter boxes with good quality potting soil and plant your favorite flowers, herbs, or small shrubs. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Maintenance for Your Planter Bench
To keep your beautiful planter bench combo looking its best for years to come, a little regular maintenance goes a long way.
Annual Cleaning: At the beginning of spring or end of fall, clear out old soil and debris. Wipe down the bench with a mild soap and water solution.
Inspect for Damage: Check fasteners (screws, bolts) and tighten them if they’ve loosened. Look for any signs of rot or insect damage, especially on unsealed wood.
Reapply Sealant/Stain: Depending on your climate and the finish used, you may need to reapply a protective coating every 1-3 years to maintain wood health and appearance.
Drainage Check: Ensure drainage holes in the planter boxes are clear. Clogged drainage can lead to waterlogged soil and premature wood rot.
Winterizing: In very harsh climates, you might consider covering the bench with a tarp or removing delicate plants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the best type of wood for an outdoor planter bench?
A1: Cedar, redwood, and cypress are excellent choices due to their natural resistance to rot and insects. Treated pine is a more budget-friendly option but should be used cautiously.
Q2: How deep should the planter boxes be?
A2: For most flowers and herbs, 8-10 inches of depth is sufficient. If you plan to plant shrubs or vegetables with deeper root systems, aim for 10-12 inches or more.
Q3: Do I need to line the planter boxes?
A3: Yes, lining the boxes is highly recommended. It protects the wood from constant moisture, prevents soil from washing out, and extends the life of your planter bench. Landscape fabric or plastic sheeting with drainage holes are good options.
Q4: Can I build this with basic tools?
A4: You can build it with essential tools like a measuring tape, saw, drill, screws, and sandpaper. A miter saw will make cuts more precise and faster, but a circular saw can get the job done.
Q5: How do I ensure the bench is sturdy?
A5: Use sturdy lumber (like 2x4s and 4x4s), secure all connections with exterior-grade screws and wood glue, and ensure your legs are properly attached and square. Pre-drilling pilot holes is also crucial to prevent wood splitting and ensure tight joints.
Q6: How do I prevent water damage to the wood?
A6: Ensure excellent drainage in the planter boxes. Use a protective finish like an exterior stain or sealant, and consider lining the boxes. Avoid direct, prolonged contact with wet soil where possible by using liners.
Conclusion
And there you have it! You’ve successfully learned how to build a functional and beautiful wooden planter bench combo. This project adds a wonderful touch to any outdoor living space, offering both a place to relax and a vibrant canvas for your favorite plants. Remember, the key to a great build is careful planning, accurate cuts, and sturdy assembly. Don’t be afraid to take your time and enjoy the process. With a little effort, you’ll have a piece of furniture that you can be proud of for years to come. So grab your tools, pick out your wood, and get ready to create something special! Happy building!