Want to add a touch of green to your outdoor space without sacrificing precious ground space? A DIY hanging planter ladder might be just the solution you’ve been looking for! This project is perfect for beginners and can be customized to fit your style and needs. As an experienced craftsman, I’m happy to guide you through the process of creating your own stunning wall planter. Let’s dive in!
Tools and Materials
Before we begin, gather the following tools and materials:
Tools:
- Miter saw
- Drill
- Kreg Jig pocket hole jig
- Tape measure
- Clamps
Materials:
- (2) 1×2 @ 8ft cedar boards (or another weather-resistant wood)
- Waterproof wood glue
- 1 1/4″ Kreg pocket hole screws
- 1 1/4″ and 3/4″ Wood screws
- Flower pot clips
- Flower pots (5-inch terra cotta pots are recommended)
- Wood stain (optional, choose a color you love!)
- Outdoor spray paint (optional, for painting the flower pots)
Building Your Hanging Planter Ladder
Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Wood
Using your miter saw, make the following cuts from your 1×2 boards:
- Two pieces at 40″ (These will be the sides of your ladder).
- Five pieces at 17″ (These will be the rungs of your ladder).
Step 2: Create Pocket Holes
Using your Kreg Jig, drill pocket holes into each end of the five 17″ pieces. Pocket holes create secure joints and will make assembly much easier.
Step 3: Assemble the Ladder
On each of the 40″ side pieces, use a tape measure and pencil to mark the following points: 5.5″, 7″, 12.5″, 14″, 19.5″, 21″, 26.5″, 28″, 33.5″, and 35″. These marks indicate where the rungs will be attached.
Apply wood glue to the ends of the 17″ rung pieces and align them with the marks you made on the side pieces. Use 1 1/4″ Kreg screws to attach the rungs to the side pieces, securing them through the pocket holes.
Step 4: Install Hanging Hooks (Optional)
If you plan to hang your planter ladder on a wooden fence or wall, you can attach it directly with wood screws. However, for vinyl fences or similar surfaces, adding hanging hooks is recommended.
To create the hooks, cut two 2 1/4″ pieces and two 4″ pieces from your remaining 1×2 board. Drill two pocket holes into each of the smaller pieces.
Attach the 2 1/4″ pieces to the top ends of the ladder sides using wood glue and 1 1/4″ Kreg screws. Clamp the 4″ pieces to the ends of the 2 1/4″ pieces (adding wood glue between them) and secure them using a 1 1/4″ wood screw through a pilot hole in the center.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once your ladder is assembled, you can personalize it with stain or paint. A weather-resistant stain will protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty. Apply the stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
After the stain has dried, attach the flower pot clips to the rungs of the ladder using 3/4″ wood screws. Be sure to drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
Finally, add your favorite plants and hang your DIY planter ladder in your chosen spot!
Conclusion
Creating your own DIY hanging planter ladder is a rewarding project that allows you to add a touch of personalized charm to your outdoor space. With a few simple tools and materials, you can build a beautiful and functional planter that will be the envy of your neighbors. Remember to share your creations with us on social media and tag Robert Kline Art for a chance to be featured!