Creating A Redwood Planter Box For A Wedding

If you're looking for a rustic wedding centerpiece, a small redwood planter box is a great option. Redwood is a natural and rot-resistant material that's perfect for planter boxes and can be purchased at most Home Depots. To build a small redwood planter box for your wedding, you'll need basic tools such as a saw, power drill, and sander, as well as screws, a screen, and a paintbrush. The first step is to determine the size of your planter and make a drawing or cut list. After reviewing the cut list, select your materials and supplies, and assemble your tools. It's important to use non-rusting screws that are rated for exterior use to prevent rust stains. You'll also need to line the bottom of the planter with a screen or landscape fabric for drainage. Once you've assembled your box, you can paint or stain it to match your wedding theme.

Choosing the right wood

Durability and Weather Resistance:

Redwood is an excellent choice for planter boxes due to its natural durability and resistance to rot and pests. It is 100% natural and will last for years, making it ideal for outdoor use. Cedar is another great option, as it is also naturally resistant to rot, weather, and insects. Both redwood and cedar are long-lasting and can withstand the elements, ensuring your planter box remains sturdy and functional.

Size and Availability:

Consider the size of your planter box and choose wood boards that are proportional. Typically, using wood boards with a width of 5 to 10 inches will provide enough depth for plants to develop a stable root system. Additionally, ensure that the wood you select is readily available in the required dimensions. You can opt for standard lumber sizes or have the wood cut to your desired specifications by a professional.

Chemical Treatment:

When choosing wood for your planter box, consider whether you prefer treated or untreated wood. Pressure-treated or composite boards are chemically treated to resist termites, mold, and other types of damage. They are budget-friendly and durable, making them a popular choice for outdoor projects. However, if you plan to grow food in your planter box, untreated wood is a safer option.

Aesthetic Appeal:

The appearance of the wood is also an important consideration. Redwood has a natural beauty that can complement outdoor spaces. Clear redwood, in particular, has a smoother finish and fewer defects, giving your planter box a more refined look. On the other hand, cedar also offers a rustic charm that can enhance the overall aesthetic of your wedding decor.

Cost:

Budget is another crucial factor when selecting wood for your project. While redwood and cedar are excellent choices for their durability and aesthetic appeal, they may require a higher upfront investment. If you're working with a tighter budget, pressure-treated or composite boards can be a more cost-effective option without compromising on functionality.

In summary, when choosing the right wood for your small redwood planter box, opt for a durable and weather-resistant option like redwood or cedar. Consider the size and availability of the wood boards, and decide between treated and untreated varieties based on your specific needs. Finally, factor in the aesthetic appeal and cost to ensure your planter box aligns with your wedding vision and budget.

Tools and materials

To make a small redwood planter box for a wedding, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Redwood or cedar boards that are resistant to insects and rot. For a small planter box, you will need five boards: two for the front and back (12-by-36 inches each), two for the sides (12-by-24 inches each), and one base piece (36 inches by 24 inches). You can use exterior plywood for the base.
• A saw to cut the wood to size, or you can have a professional do this for you.
• A power drill to join the pieces together and to make drainage holes.
• 2-inch galvanized wood screws to join the pieces together.
• Sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and give the planter a finished look.
• Paint or stain to protect the wood and give it a desired colour. You can use acrylic paint or exterior paint sealer.
• A paintbrush to apply the paint or stain.
• Safety gear such as protective eyeglasses, gloves, and earplugs when using power tools.
• Landscape fabric or a fine mesh screen to line the bottom of the planter for drainage and to prevent soil from falling out.
• Twine and mini wood tags for decoration.

Cutting the wood

The first step in making your wedding planter box is to cut the wood to size. You will need five redwood or cedar boards, known for their resistance to insects and rot, to create a planter box that is 36 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 12 inches high.

For the front and back of the planter, cut two 12-by-36-inch pieces. For the sides, cut two 12-by-24-inch pieces. Additionally, you will need a base piece, which can be made from exterior plywood, measuring 36 inches long and 24 inches wide.

If you don't have the tools or expertise to cut the wood yourself, you can always seek assistance from a professional.

Once you have your wood cut to the correct dimensions, you can begin assembling your planter box.

Sanding the Wood

Before assembling the planter box, it is a good idea to sand the wood to smooth out any rough edges and give it a nice finish. Use a sanding block or sandpaper to carefully sand all the pieces of wood, paying extra attention to the corners and edges. Remove any splinters and create a uniform, smooth surface.

Assembly

Now, you can start assembling your planter box. Place the front piece on a flat surface and align a side piece flush against it, ensuring the joint is even. Use a drill to create pilot holes and then secure the pieces together using 2-inch galvanized wood screws. Repeat this process to attach the back piece and the second side, forming a box-like structure.

Turn the planter box upside down and secure the base piece by drilling screws into each edge. Now, your planter box should be taking shape!

Finishing Touches

To enhance the appearance and durability of your planter box, consider applying paint or stain. You can use coloured or clear acrylic paint to match your wedding theme or venue décor. Alternatively, you can opt for a natural wood finish with penetrating oil or water-based acrylic.

Always remember to wear the appropriate safety gear, including safety goggles and gloves, when cutting, sanding, and assembling the wood.

Assembling the planter box

To assemble a small redwood planter box for a wedding, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Materials and Cut the Redwood Boards

Firstly, gather your materials, including redwood boards, a drill, screws, a saw, and wood glue. Cut the redwood boards to the desired size, considering the length, width, and height of your planter box. You will need pieces for the front, back, sides, and base. Sand the edges to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 2: Assemble the Sides

Start by attaching one of the side pieces to the front piece. Use a drill to create pilot holes and then secure them together using galvanized wood screws. Repeat this process to attach the second side piece to the front. You should now have an "L"-shaped structure.

Step 3: Attach the Back and Base

Hold the back piece against the open side of the structure, ensuring the tops are level and the joint is flush. Drill and screw this into place, just as you did with the sides. Now, your planter should resemble a box without a lid or base. Carefully flip the box over so that the lower side faces upward. Lower the base piece over the box and secure it by drilling screws into each edge.

Step 4: Finish and Detail

Sand any rough edges, corners, or crevices to ensure a smooth finish. You can also apply paint or stain to the planter box to enhance its appearance and protect the wood. Drill drainage holes in the base, and consider lining the bottom with landscape fabric or screen to protect the wood and allow for proper drainage.

Step 5: Finalize the Planter Box

Place your planter box in the desired location, adjusting the angle to ensure it receives the correct amount of sunlight. Line the bottom with river rocks or pebbles to aid in drainage and prevent waterlogging. Fill the box with potting soil, leaving about 2 inches of space from the top. Now, your planter box is ready for plants or flowers!

Finishing touches

Once you've built your planter box, it's time to add the finishing touches! Here are some ideas to make your small redwood planter box look perfect for your wedding:

Painting or Staining

Paint or stain your planter box to protect it from moisture, mildew spores, and UV damage. You can use a natural finish like penetrating oil or sealers that give wood a natural look and apply easily with a paintbrush. Water-based acrylic finishes are also a good option as they are environmentally friendly and provide good protection. If you want a long-lasting option, exterior paint sealer is highly recommended, and it's easy to apply and budget-friendly. Varnishes and polyurethanes will protect your planter box while also enhancing the beauty of the wood. For the best results, follow the manufacturer's instructions on how many coats you need.

Sanding

If you want a rustic look for your wedding, sanding is a great way to achieve it. Use sandpaper to sand the sides and edges of the planter box, creating a rustic, weathered finish. This technique will also help remove any splinters and give your planter box a smooth finish.

Drainage

Don't forget to add drainage holes to your planter box! Drill at least five holes in the bottom of the box, and make sure they are no more than 3/4-inch wide. Space the holes evenly, and if you've constructed a large planter, you may need to add additional holes. You can also add a layer of river rock or pebbles at the bottom of the planter box to allow excess water to drain and keep roots from getting waterlogged.

Decorations

To dress up your planter box for the wedding, consider adding some decorations. You can wrap twine around the box and add a tag with your table number or a special message. Fresh flowers or plants will also add a touch of elegance to your centerpiece.

Fabric or Screen

To protect the wood base, cut a piece of landscape fabric or screen to the same size as the bottom of the planter box. Use small finish nails to tack it in place. Don't forget to cut holes in the fabric or screen where it covers the drainage holes.

Frequently asked questions