This is a very easy project to make for the beginning woodworker. It is low cost since it is made from scrap pallets and should only take a couple of hours to make. The same plans can be used to make a nicer version from 1x4 cedar boards. The planter holds succulent plants which are almost care free and extremely easy to grow.

Step 1: Tools/Materials

Tools:

Table Saw
Sander
Wood clamps
Hammer (optional)
Tape Measure
Pencil

Materials:

Pallet Wood - 3.5" wide x 3/4" thick and 3" wide x 7/16" thick
Water proof wood glue
Nails (optional)
Paint/Stain (optional)

Step 2: Drawing

You will be building to this drawing. The parts are color coded for easy reference. Note that the size is arbitrary. You can obviously scale this design up or down without any issues.

Step 3: Base

Cut the base to the dimensions shown. I used a table saw for all cuts.

Step 4: Sides

Cut the box sides as shown. The decorative grooves are shown at this level but were actually cut at the end.

Step 5: Inner Walls

These walls allow you to compartmentalize the box - totally optional. Note that I used 7/16" thick pallet wood these walls.

Step 6: Parts

You should be ready to assemble at this point.

Step 7: Assembly - Step 1

Glue and/or nail the long sides to the base. Use clamps to apply pressure. You can add the other sides in (not glued) to help keep the joint at 90 degrees.

Step 8: Assembly - Step 2

Add remaining sides. Again, glue and/or nail. Note that one side was a too long since I was working quickly. I ran the completed box over the table saw to clean up that side.

Step 9: Assembly - Step 3

Add inner walls. I took a few cuts on the table saw to make sure these were a tight fit. They are attached with glue.

Step 10: Decorative Notches

I ran the completed box over the table saw with the blade set to 1/4" high.

Step 11: Sand

Sand the planter box to break the edges and clean up the joints. You are now ready for stain or paint.

Step 12: Paint

Ok, my wife and I tried to give it that rustic look that you see on a lot of these type of planters. After sanding, a light coat of white paint was added. I hit it lightly with the sander again and then another very light coat of white paint was added. I think it turned out ok but I think I would have preferred stain - too late now.

Step 13: Add Plants

Depending where this will placed, you might want to add plastic liners inside the planter.

Three plants were purchased for the planter. Each plant cost around $4 from the big box stores. Add a little planting soil to fill in the planting area.

Step 14: Rocks

Small rocks can be added around the plants. This will help keep the dirt from splashing up while watering.

Step 15: Final Pictures

Here is the completed box with plants. Once the plants are too large for the planter we plan to move these to a larger container and propagate smaller plants to plant into this box.