Gardening doesn’t have to be complicated, and a raised planter is one of the easiest ways to start growing your own herbs, flowers or vegetables. It tidies up your outdoor space, improves drainage and makes gardening more comfortable. Even if you only have a small garden or balcony, this simple timber project is an achievable weekend task.

A raised planter gives you control over your soil, helps reduce weeds and creates a clear, organised space to grow in. It also lifts your plants away from ground-level pests and makes watering easier to manage. You don’t need advanced tools or expensive materials, just a straightforward plan and a bit of time.

To get started, gather your materials. Firstly, you’ll need timber sleepers, available at Harlow Bros, that are suitable for outdoor use. You’ll also need exterior screws, a drill, a saw, a measuring tape and a bit of sandpaper. It also helps to have a liner such as landscape fabric or plastic sheeting to protect the inside of the planter. A good beginner-friendly size is around 120cm long, 60cm wide and 40cm tall, though you can adjust this to fit your space.

Begin by measuring and cutting your timber. You’ll need pieces for the two long sides, the two shorter ends and four sturdy corner posts to keep the structure stable. If you prefer not to cut the timber yourself, many merchants will do this for you when you purchase it.

Once everything is cut, lay the pieces out on a flat surface and assemble the frame. Fix each of the long boards to a corner post using exterior screws, keeping the edges aligned so the planter sits evenly. Repeat this with the shorter end panels. Pre-drilling your screw holes helps prevent the timber from splitting and makes the assembly smoother.

After the frame is secure, give the edges a sand. You can do this by hand or with power tools; it’s up to you. This removes rough areas and makes the finished planter nicer to handle. You can leave the timber natural, or paint or seal the outside later if you prefer a particular look.

Before adding soil, fit a liner inside the planter. This protects the timber from moisture and helps keep everything clean. Allow the liner to sit slightly above the top so you can fold it neatly over the edges before securing it. If you’re using plastic, make a few small holes to allow excess water to drain.

Move the empty planter into its final position before filling it. Once the soil is in, it becomes heavy and awkward to lift. Choose a sunny spot for herbs and vegetables, or a location that suits the plants you plan to grow. Fill the planter with a mix of compost and topsoil, leaving a little space at the top to make watering easier. Plant your seedlings or seeds, give them a gentle soak and you’re ready to go.

Extra Tips

• Keep the planter slightly raised on blocks or bricks to help it last longer.
• Seal or paint the outside if you want extra weather protection or a certain finish.
• Use a lighter soil mix if the planter will sit on a balcony.
• Add simple handles to the sides if you’d like to move it around during the year.

FAQs

Can I use untreated timber?
Untreated timber can work, but it won’t last as long outdoors. Treated timber gives you better value and durability.

How deep should my planter be?
A depth of around 30–40cm suits most plants, from herbs to salad leaves and smaller vegetables.

Do I need drainage holes?
Yes, drainage is essential. Without it, water will pool at the base and harm your plants.

What can I grow in it?
A raised planter suits herbs, flowers, tomatoes, strawberries, leafy greens and even compact shrubs.

A simple raised planter brings instant charm and practicality to your garden or patio. It’s a manageable project that gives you fresh planting space for years to come, and once you’ve built one, you may find yourself planning a few more. Happy planting!