How to Build a Wooden Planter Box: 3 Easy Pallet Projects

Pallet planter boxes are a sustainable and cost-effective way to create garden spaces using recycled wooden pallets. They’re particularly popular in Australia, where people value eco-friendly practices and often have limited garden space.

These projects are great for beginners. They create simple designs that people can change for different needs, like herbs or flowers.

The appeal lies in sustainability, as repurposing pallets reduces waste and promotes recycling, aligning with Australian environmental values.

Cost-effectiveness is another benefit. Pallets are often free or cheap from local businesses like supermarkets, warehouses, or factories.

Versatility allows for various designs, from simple boxes to vertical gardens, fitting diverse spaces. Customization options, such as painting or adding compartments, cater to personal style, making these projects engaging for beginners.

Safety is crucial, and research suggests using heat-treated (HT) pallets, marked with “HT,” to ensure they’re safe for gardening. Avoid pallets marked “MB,” indicating methyl bromide treatment, which is toxic and unsuitable for plant contact.

This is important in Australia. Here, rules and environmental concerns matter a lot. They help ensure the wood does not harm plants or the ecosystem. For example, you can check pallets at local hardware stores like Bunnings for safety markings.

Project 1: Basic Pallet Planter Box

Build time: Under 1 hour

Skill level: Beginner

Perfect for: Herbs, flowers, or small veggies

Tools & Materials:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

🔍 Step 1: Inspect the Pallet

Make sure it’s heat-treated (look for “HT” stamp), clean, and free of damage or oil stains.

🪚 Step 2: Disassemble the Pallet

Use a hammer or pry bar to remove the slats from the stringers.

📏 Step 3: Decide the Size

Plan your planter dimensions (e.g. 36″ long × 12″ wide × 8″ high).

🧱 Step 4: Build the Frame

Cut the stringers to size and form a rectangle:

🪵 Step 5: Add the Sides

Cut slats to 8” height and attach them vertically inside the frame.

🪓 Step 6: Add the Bottom

Use more slats to cover the base. Leave small gaps for drainage if not using plastic.

🔧 Step 7: Check Stability

Give it a gentle shake. Tighten any loose screws/nails.

🪵 Step 8: Sand Rough Edges

Use medium to fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out splinters.

🎨 Step 9: Optional – Paint or Seal

For weather protection, use exterior paint or sealant.

🌿 Step 10: Line with Plastic

Add plastic sheeting inside to protect the wood. Punch drainage holes at the bottom.

🌼 Step 11: Fill and Plant

Add soil and choose plants. Marigolds are a great low-maintenance choice for Aussie gardens!

✅ Done!

You’ve now created a simple, sturdy, and eco-friendly planter box from a single pallet. Perfect for balconies, patios, or gardens.

Project 2: Skid Planter Box for Herbs

Build time: Under 1 hour

Skill level: Beginner

Perfect for: Small herb gardens on balconies or patios

Tools & Materials:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

🔍 Step 1: Choose a Skid

Pick a heat-treated (HT) wooden skid that fits your space. It should be clean, solid, and free of damage or oil stains.

🧼 Step 2: Clean and Inspect

Wipe away any dirt, and repair or remove broken boards. Check for protruding nails or splinters.

📐 Step 3: Plan the Layout

Decide how many compartments you want—one for each herb (like basil, rosemary, mint). Sketch your layout and think about how you’ll divide the space.

🪚 Step 4: Modify if Needed

If your skid doesn’t already have natural dividers, cut and attach extra wood pieces to separate compartments. This keeps each herb in its own cozy space.

🧱 Step 5: Assemble and Stabilise

Make sure your skid is level and stable. Reinforce with nails or screws if needed, especially if you’ve made modifications.

🪵 Step 6: Sand the Surface

Smooth out all edges and surfaces to prevent splinters. Focus on corners and areas where you’ll handle the planter.

🎨 Step 7: Optional – Paint or Seal

To make it weather-resistant and add some personality, apply outdoor paint or sealant. Let it dry completely before planting.

🪴 Step 8: Add Soil Compartments

If you’re using small containers, place them securely into each section. Otherwise, line each compartment with landscape fabric or a bit of breathable plastic and add potting mix.

🌿 Step 9: Plant Your Herbs

Plant a different herb in each section. Rosemary, thyme, mint, and parsley are great options for Aussie climates—sun-loving and space-saving!

✅ Done!

You’ve built a compact, charming herb planter that’s perfect for patios, balconies, or even sunny kitchen corners. Enjoy fresh herbs right at your fingertips!

Project 3: Vertical Flower Boxes from Pallets

Build time: 1–2 hours

Skill level: Beginner–Intermediate

Perfect for: Trailing flowers, vines, small urban gardens

Tools & Materials:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

🌼 Option 1: Hanging Pots on a Vertical Pallet

🔍 Step 1: Prep the Pallet

Clean your pallet, sand any rough edges, and fix or remove damaged boards.

☀️ Step 2: Choose a Sunny Spot

Find a bright wall or fence where the pallet will get plenty of sunlight.

🧱 Step 3: Mount Vertically

Stand the pallet up and attach it securely using nails or screws. Double-check that it’s level and won’t tip over.

🛠️ Step 4: Drill for Hanging Pots

Decide where to place your pots and drill holes into the slats accordingly.

🪴 Step 5: Hang the Pots

Use hooks, wire, or sturdy string to hang small pots from the drilled holes.

🌿 Step 6: Add Flowers

Fill each pot with potting mix and plant trailing flowers like ivy, petunias, or nasturtiums.

💧 Step 7: Care & Maintain

Water regularly and trim plants as needed to keep them healthy and cascading beautifully.

🌿 Option 2: Direct Planting in a Vertical Pallet

🔍 Step 1: Prep the Pallet

Same as above—clean, inspect, and repair any damage before starting.

☀️ Step 2: Choose a Location

Pick a wall or fence with good sunlight for optimal plant growth.

🧱 Step 3: Mount Vertically

Secure the pallet upright with screws or nails, ensuring it’s stable and level.

🧵 Step 4: Line the Back

Use plastic sheeting or landscape fabric to line the back and bottom of the pallet. Staple it tightly to create soil pockets.

🌱 Step 5: Add Potting Soil

Fill the gaps between the slats with potting mix, packing it in firmly.

🌼 Step 6: Plant the Flowers

Tuck your trailing plants or vines directly into the slat openings.

🔧 Step 7: Check Stability

Make sure the pallet is secure enough to hold the weight of the soil and plants. Consider wind conditions, especially outdoors in Australia’s variable climate.

💧 Step 8: Water & Prune

Water gently, let the plants settle, and trim as needed to keep growth tidy and lush.

✅ Done!

You’ve turned a simple pallet into a space-saving, eye-catching vertical flower garden. Ideal for balconies, fences, and small backyards — and easy to customise with Aussie-native trailing blooms.

Conclusion and Encouragement

Creating pallet planter boxes combines sustainability with creativity, offering beginners in Australia a range of projects from basic to decorative.

These designs meet different needs. They include space-saving vertical gardens and tiered planters for various plants. This ensures they are easy to use and engaging.

Start today, leveraging local resources like Bunnings for materials, and enjoy watching your garden flourish.

Table: Comparison of Pallet Planter Projects

Project Type Complexity Level Space Suitability Estimated Time Key Materials Primary Use Case

Basic Pallet Planter Box Low Ground/Balcony ~1 hour Pallet, nails, soil Vegetables, flowers

Skid Planter Box for Herbs Low-Medium Balcony/Patio ~1.5 hours Skid, dividers, soil Herb gardens

Vertical Flower Boxes Medium Wall/Fence ~2 hours Pallet, fabric, pots Trailing flowers

This table aids in project selection, highlighting suitability for Australian gardeners based on space and skill level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I find wooden pallets in Australia?

Wooden pallets are commonly available from businesses like supermarkets, warehouses, or even local hardware stores. Many will give them away for free, while others may sell them for a small cost.

How can I tell if a pallet is safe for gardening?

Look for the “HT” stamp, which indicates the pallet has been heat-treated and is safe to use. Avoid pallets with the “MB” stamp because they contain chemical treatments that may not be safe for gardening.

Can I use any type of paint on my planter box?

Using outdoor paint made for wood is the best choice. It can handle the weather and lasts a long time.

What kind of plants are best for each type of planter?

How do I maintain my pallet planter box?

This guide covers all the details. It makes it easy for readers to start their pallet planter box journey.

Key Citations