
Wooden planter boxes have long been a favorite feature in gardens, patios, and backyards around the world. As the seasons change and warm weather sets in, wooden planters become an easy and stylish way to add beauty and functionality to outdoor spaces. While planter boxes are readily available for purchase, there’s something special about creating your own. Why settle for the same old design when you can build a one-of-a-kind wooden planter that suits your exact needs and style? Whether you’re looking to add extra storage, seating, or just a creative statement to your outdoor space, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore 50 wooden planter box ideas, focusing on geometric shapes and DIY designs that will inspire you to get crafty. With just a few basic tools and some wood, you can build stunning planters that add personality and charm to your garden. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose DIY Wooden Planter Boxes?
If you’re considering a DIY project, building your own wooden planter box not only saves money but also gives you the freedom to customize your planter to suit your specific space. Do you need something small and neat for your patio? Or perhaps you want a statement piece for your backyard garden? DIY wooden planters can be designed in any shape and size that fits your vision. Whether you need extra storage for garden tools or seating incorporated into your design, a wooden planter box is a versatile addition.
In this list, we’ve divided the ideas by their geometric forms, so whether you’re in the mood for a classic rectangle or an unusual hexagon, you’ll find the perfect planter box idea for your space.
Wooden Planter Box Ideas by Geometric Form
1. Hexagonal Planter Boxes

Hexagons are the perfect way to add contrast between plants and shapes in your garden. Not only do they provide ample space for growth, but the unique form allows you to create striking patterns when combined. Imagine a set of hexagonal planter boxes lining your walkway or hanging by your sunroom windows. You can even double a hexagonal box as a bench for extra functionality.
2. Pentagon Planter Box

The pentagon planter box is a striking addition to your yard, offering a more dynamic form than typical square boxes. While slightly more complex to build due to its angles, the result is worth the effort. You can use it as a stand-alone piece or combine multiple pentagonal boxes to create an interesting geometric garden display.
3. Triangular Planter Boxes

Since triangles are uncommon in nature, triangular planters are an eye-catching focal point for any yard. With their clean lines and sharp edges, triangular wooden planters are perfect for those who want to make a bold statement in their garden. Experiment with various heights, colors, and textures for a truly unique look.
4. Pyramid Planter Boxes

If you’re ready for something even more dramatic, why not try a pyramid-shaped planter? Build your pyramid vertically, or stack smaller planters to create a multi-layered effect. This shape is ideal for showcasing various plants like flowers, succulents, or even herbs. The added bonus? A pyramid planter can serve as an artistic garden centerpiece.
5. Straight Shelves

Shelving is a great way to display plants. Straight wooden shelves are a classic look that works for any garden style, whether you’re aiming for modern or rustic. Using reclaimed wood adds character to the design, or you can opt for treated lumber for a more traditional appearance.
6. Angled Shelves

If you want to add an extra touch of flair, angled shelves are a fun design that adds visual interest to your planter box. These angled shelves not only look stylish but are also practical for showcasing plants at different levels, perfect for patios or decks.
7. Round Planter Boxes

Looking to add some curves to your garden? Round wooden planters are an easy and effective way to break up the hard lines of traditional square or rectangular boxes. Ideal for smaller plants or flowers, a round planter will add a welcoming, organic feel to your backyard decor.
8. Tiered Planter Boxes

Tiered planters are a fantastic way to add dimension to your garden. By planting at varying heights, your flowers, shrubs, and herbs are always visible, creating depth and texture in your yard. A tiered planter box is a great option if you’re working with limited space but want to create a lush, vertical garden.
9. Trapezoidal Planter Boxes

The trapezoid planter box is a versatile option that fits into virtually any decor. The unique shape blends seamlessly with both traditional and modern gardens. It’s also one of the easiest geometric designs to create, making it ideal for beginner woodworkers.
10. Ladder Planter Boxes

Looking for a space-saving design with some vertical appeal? A ladder planter box is the way to go. You can customize the height of your ladder, from a 3-step version that fits snugly on your deck to a taller 5-step ladder that leans against a fence. These planters are also ideal for growing herbs or smaller plants that need constant sunlight.
11. Square Planter Boxes

The classic square design is always a safe bet, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring! With some creativity, square planter boxes can be customized to suit any outdoor space. Use these boxes to frame flowers, or get creative by adding geometric patterns on the sides to add visual interest.
12. Rectangular Planter Boxes

A rectangular wooden planter box is the quintessential DIY project for gardeners. It’s easy to build and provides a lot of space for plants. Whether you’re growing tall grasses, cascading flowers, or a mix of both, the rectangular shape offers endless possibilities for your garden. Plus, adding wheels to these planters makes them mobile, so you can move them around for optimal sunlight.
13. Trellis Planter Boxes

Why settle for just a planter when you can combine it with a trellis? Adding a trellis to your planter box allows you to grow climbing plants and flowers, creating a stunning vertical garden. This combination makes a lovely focal point, whether placed in the front yard or against a backyard fence.
14. Hose Holder Planter Boxes

For the ultimate multi-functional design, consider incorporating a hose holder into your planter box. This smart design allows you to store your garden hose or small tools underneath the planter while still having a beautiful display of plants above. It’s the perfect space-saving solution for smaller gardens or patios.
15. Combo Planter Boxes

Why not combine different shapes for a truly custom planter box? Create a combo design that blends squares, rectangles, and even a bench for extra seating. The combinations are endless when you let your imagination run wild. This approach is perfect for homeowners looking for both functionality and style in one DIY project.
Conclusion: Let Your Creativity Flow
Wooden planter boxes are more than just a way to showcase your plants—they’re a chance to express your creativity and design a space that reflects your personality. From geometric shapes like hexagons and pyramids to multi-functional designs with storage or seating, the possibilities for DIY wooden planters are endless.
By using the ideas and tips in this article, you can create a truly unique outdoor space that combines beauty, functionality, and a little bit of DIY magic. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your tools, and start crafting your perfect wooden planter today!