Upcycle Old Fence Pickets Into A Gorgeous DIY Wheelbarrow Planter

If you've got some old fence pickets lying around, don't toss them just yet. A DIY wheelbarrow planter is a fantastic way to repurpose them and add rustic charm to your porch or garden. To get started, gather your materials, including six to eight old fence pickets, depending on the desired size of your wheelbarrow. You'll also need a wheel or caster for the front, screws or nails, wood glue, sandpaper, measuring tape, and paint or wood stain if you want to give your planter a polished finish. Other essential tools include a saw and a drill for precision.

Once you've got all these materials, start by measuring and cutting your fence pickets. You'll need two longer pieces for the sides, two shorter ones for the front and back, and several slats for the base. The front piece can be about 4 inches wide, and the back section about 10 inches. Give those edges a good sanding to avoid any nasty splinters. Next, assemble the body by attaching the sides to the base using screws or nails, and don't forget a dab of Gorilla Glue wood glue for extra stability. Attach the front and back to form a sturdy frame. For that classic wheelbarrow tilt, add two legs at the back, angled just right for balance.

For the wheel, secure a caster or small wheel to the front. Make sure it spins freely. Attach two pickets at the back for handles, angling them upwards so you can easily grip and move your planter. You can leave the wood natural or slap on some weather-resistant paint or Varathane wood stain.

A wheelbarrow planter is more than just a place to put plants -– it's a little garden centerpiece that can transform your outdoor space. Want to make it stand out? Try placing it along a pathway, nestled in a garden bed, or right on your porch. Wherever you put it, it's going to catch eyes and add some nice depth to your garden setup. And the best part? You can really have fun with how you style it and there are plenty of unique flower bed décor ideas. Go for bright flowers, some trailing greenery, or even a mix of herbs if you want a handy kitchen garden. Switch things up with the seasons to keep your garden looking fresh all year round.

One of the coolest things about a wheelbarrow planter is how easy it is to move around. Unlike your regular garden beds that need to be disassembled when you want to relocate them, you can just wheel your wheelbarrow planter to wherever the sun or shade is perfect. This is handy if you're working with a small space or love changing up your garden's look. Bonus: You can stash a few extra pots or tools underneath, making the most of every bit of space you've got. It's an outdoor feature that can make every gardener's life easier.