12 Planter Box Ideas For Every Home Gardener
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If you’re anything like me, you love finding creative ways to bring more greenery into your space—even if you’re running out of horizontal room. That’s where planter boxes come in!
Over time, I’ve used a variety of planter box setups both outdoors and indoors (my sunroom is practically a jungly retreat). Not only do they keep your plants organized and accessible, but they also double as decor, adding character and charm to any space!
Whether you’re growing herbs in your kitchen, building a vertical garden on your balcony, or elevating a blank wall in your backyard, planter boxes are versatile and full of potential.
The best part? You can tailor them to your taste, space, and gardening goals.
Get ready for some inspiration! Here are unique planter box ideas to get your creative gardening juices flowing.
12 Planter Box Ideas
1. Wooden Crate Planter
There’s something so timeless about rustic wooden crates. They’re sturdy, charming, and bring a touch of farmhouse style to your plants.
All you need is a little lining (try landscaping fabric or even plastic) to keep the soil in place. These work great for herbs, flowers, or small veggies. Arrange a few crates together to create a cohesive garden display! Bonus tip? Add weatherproof paint for a colorful, customized look.
2. Vertical Wall Planter
Running out of floor space? Think vertical! A vertical wall planter is a perfect solution for small yards, balconies, or indoor spaces. Whether it’s a pre-made planter unit or a DIY project with old pallets, these planters can hold herbs, succulents, or trailing vines. They’re also an amazing way to create living walls that double as statement pieces.
3. Tiered Ladder Planter
Take an old ladder, give it a makeover, and create an eye-catching tiered planter.
This setup maximizes vertical space, letting you showcase multiple plants without overwhelming your area. Use each “level” for different plants like cascading flowers, potted herbs, or even small shrubs. It’s functional, yet artsy!
4. Cinder Block Planter
Utility meets creativity with the humble cinder block! Stack blocks on top of each other in various configurations (Pinterest is bursting with ideas).
The hollow centers make them perfect slots for planting. Succulents and small flowers look especially great against the rugged, industrial texture of the blocks. You can even paint the blocks to match your style!
5. Pallet Box Planter
If you’ve got an old wooden pallet lying around, don’t toss it out! Pallets make fantastic planter boxes with just a little modification. Use them upright for a vertical garden or fill the spaces between slats for a rectangular table-top planter. Herbs like basil, mint, or parsley thrive in these.
6. Hanging Basket Planter
Hanging basket planters are perfect if you’re looking to add a whimsical vibe to your space.
They’re an ideal solution for trailing plants like petunias, pothos, or strawberries.
Hang them on hooks, ceiling beams, or balcony rails to create floating gardens. Lightweight and compact, they’re a dream for renters or small-space gardeners.
7. Galvanized Metal Tub Planter
For a mix of modern and vintage vibes, consider a galvanized metal tub. These tubs come in various sizes and are fantastic for larger plants or mini vegetable gardens.
Add drainage holes and a little gravel at the bottom for optimal results. Imagine tomatoes, basil, and dill all thriving in one chic tub!
8. Window Box Planter
Window boxes truly transform the exterior of a home. They add a burst of life and color to windowsills, fences, or railings.
Fill them with seasonal blooms or small edible plants like parsley and thyme. Easy to access and water, window boxes make gardening a breeze (and you’ll get frequent compliments from passersby!).
9. Recycled Wine Barrel Planter
Want a planter with rustic charm and plenty of room? Repurpose an old wine barrel into a planter box.
Cut it in half (or use it whole), drill some drainage holes, and voila! The wide surface is great for small trees like citrus or lush flowers like geraniums. Plus, wine barrels are durable and last for years.
- Stone Planter Boxes
Stone planter boxes are a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your garden.
Made from natural stone, these planters not only look beautiful but also provide excellent insulation for the plants, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
You can find different types of stone planter boxes such as limestone, sandstone, or granite to match your garden’s existing design. They are also durable and low maintenance, making them a practical choice for any gardener.
11. Wicker Basket Planter
There’s something effortlessly charming about wicker baskets. Line them with a plastic liner or coconut coir to hold soil in place and prevent leaks.
Perfect for decorative plants or flowering arrangements, wicker baskets can be moved around easily to fit your layout.
12. Upcycled Drawer Planter
Have an old dresser destined for the junkyard? Hold that thought! Repurpose those drawers into quirky planter boxes.
Line them with plastic or geotextile fabric to keep them water-resistant, and use each drawer to plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables. Stack them for a tiered effect or spread them around for a whimsical garden vibe.
Plant Smarter, Not Harder
Planter boxes are more than just functional gardening solutions; they’re opportunities to get creative, make a sustainable impact, and enhance your space.
Whether you’re upcycling materials or hitting the hardware store for new supplies, the possibilities are endless.
If you’re looking for that perfect planter to match your aesthetic, take some cues from the ideas above and start designing your dream garden setup.
