How to Keep Soil Away from your Best Redwood Planter Box

How to Keep Soil Away from a Redwood Planter Box

Redwood planters have a unique look with their natural red-toned wood and fine wood grain. These planters offer protection from extreme temperature changes that can damage plant roots. Many planters fit between benches in the landscape. Raised redwood planters keep animals such as rabbits away from the plants and make it easier on the back to work with the plants. The use of redwood as a building material takes advantage of its rot-resistant properties, but keeping the soil from directly contacting the planter extends its life.

1.- Apply nontoxic waterproofing stain or paint to the redwood planter with a paint brush. Coat both the inside and outside of the planter for a thin layer of protection. Do not use pentachlorophenol preservatives on the planter. This substance is toxic to plants, animals and people. Let the waterproofing treatment dry completely.

2.- Drill holes in the bottom of the planter for drainage. The holes are necessary so water does not pool in the bottom of the planter and increase the chances of wood rot. Cut a piece of wire mesh the same size as the bottom of the planter. Place the mesh inside the planter so the soil does not leak out the bottom of the planter.

3.- Measure the inside dimensions of the planter with a tape measure, including the sides and bottom. Cut a piece of heavy-duty black plastic a couple of inches larger than the measurements with a sharp pair of scissors.

4.- Staple the plastic in place to the bottom of the planter with an electric stapler. Pull the sides of the plastic up to cover the sides. Roll down the excess and tuck it between the planter sides and the black plastic. Secure the edges with staples.

5.- Cut holes in the bottom of the plastic that match the drainage holes in the planter. Fill the redwood planter with soil and plant with flowers, herbs or vegetables.