DIY project from NZ Gardener magazine
Rose Hughes’ latest project will make container growing easier than ever.
You will need: 16m of 150mm x 25mm H3 dressed pine, 18m of 75mm x 25mm H3 dressed pine, 6m of 50mm x 50mm H3 dressed pine, 8g x 50mm screws, screwdriver with long and standard screwdriver bit, countersink bit, drop saw, jigsaw, clamps, sander/sandpaper, tape measure and pencil, wood filler, stapler, scissors, 3000mm x 2000mm black polythene or pond liner, 100mm x 1600mm weedmat, 110mm drainage pipe (perforated) 3 x 1360mm, 110mm x 5m filter sleeve, small length of 6mm clear vinyl tube and drill bit, garden hose off-cut approx. 30cm plus hose attachment, Resene Quick Dry Primer and test pots, brushes or small roller, masking tape.
Cutting lists: From the 150mm x 25mm: Ends – 8 x 600mm; and Sides – 8 x 1400mm. From the 50mm x 50mm: Posts – 12 x 540mm. From the 75mm x 25mm: Floor – 8 x 1360mm; Joists – 5 x 600; and Capping – 2 x 1400mm & 2 x 600mm.
Cost: $365 excluding paint, potting mix and plants.
To use: Attach a garden hose and gently fill the base until water comes out the overflow. The water will wick up through the potting mix as required and keep the planter watered. Check and refill as required.
Photos: Rose Hughes