How To Make Concrete Planters: 14 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Make Concrete Planters PDF download Download Article Reviewed by Ben Barkan

Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Fact Checked

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  • Creating the Mold
    • |
  • Filling in the Mold
    • |
  • Finishing the Planter
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
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This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 394,840 times.

If you want a sleek, modern concrete planter for your outdoor plants, why not make your own instead of shelling out hundreds of dollars? With just some simple supplies and concrete, you can make a custom planter that's the perfect size and shape for your garden. This article will walk you through how to make a mold and pour the concrete for your planter step by step. Soon, you'll have a sturdy, aesthetic new home for your plants.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Creating the Mold

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  1. Step 1 Get 2 different sized boxes. 1 Get 2 different sized boxes. The boxes will be the molds that you’ll use to create the planters. Find 1 large box and a slightly smaller box. The smaller box should be able to fit inside of the larger box. The space in between the 2 boxes will determine the thickness of your concrete planters.[1]
    • The boxes can be made of cardboard or wood.
    • The smaller box should be at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) smaller than the big box on each side.
    • The smaller box should be at least 8 inches (20 cm) deep for larger plants and 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm) deep for smaller plants.
    • Get sturdy boxes so that the mold doesn’t break when you fill it with concrete.
  2. Step 2 Use plastic containers rather than boxes. 2 Use plastic containers rather than boxes. If you want a concrete planter that’s a different shape than a rectangle or square, you can purchase plastic containers of any shape to serve as your molds.[2] Find 2 different sized plastic containers online or at a department store.
    • The smaller container should be at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) smaller than the larger container around each side.
    • The smaller container should be at least 8 inches (20 cm) deep for larger plants and 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm) deep for smaller plants.
    • For instance, you can get 2 pots or 2 plastic bowls.
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  3. Step 3 Tape a plastic trash bag around the smaller container. 3 Tape a plastic trash bag around the smaller container. Stretch the trash bag over the smaller container so that it's taut against the sides. The trash bag should be tight against the inside of the container as well. Tape the trash bag to the box or container with duct tape.[3]
    • The plastic bag will prevent the concrete from sticking to the small container and will make it easier to remove the mold.
  4. Step 4 Mark 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the bottom of the large container. 4 Mark 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the bottom of the large container. Use a ruler to measure 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the base on the inside of the large container. Make a horizontal line with a pen or marker. This will help you determine how much concrete you should initially pour into the mold.[4]
    • If you want the sides of your planter to be thicker, measure and mark the line to reflect the change in dimensions.
    • For instance, if your planter's walls are 4 in (10 cm)-thick, you'd measure and mark 4 inches (10 cm) from the base of the planter.
  5. Step 5 Coat the inside of the larger box with cooking spray. 5 Coat the inside of the larger box with cooking spray. Spread the non-stick spray around to get an even coating on the inside of the larger box. The cooking spray will make it so that the concrete doesn’t stick to the sides of the larger container.[5]
    • You can purchase a can of cooking spray online or at a grocery store.
    • You can coat the inside of the larger box with mineral spirits as an alternative to cooking spray. Pour the spirits into the bottom of the box and spread it around on the inside of the box with a rag.
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Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Filling in the Mold

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  1. Step 1 Mix concrete... 1 Mix concrete and water in a wheelbarrow or bucket.[6] Read all of the instructions on the package of concrete so you know the ratio of concrete to water. Put on a pair of gloves and pour the concrete mix into the wheelbarrow or bucket. Then, slowly pour in the appropriate amount of water into the concrete mix. Mix the concrete and water with a stick or shovel until it’s an oatmeal-like consistency.[7]
    • You can add a variety of powdered concrete pigments during the mixing process to infuse different colors into the planter.[8] Purchase concrete pigments online.
    • Concrete pigments come in a variety of colors like blue and red.[9]
    • If you run out of concrete while filling your mold, mix more.
    • Try to get out all of the lumps from the concrete before pouring it.
  2. Step 2 Pour concrete into the larger box, up to the line that you made. 2 Pour concrete into the larger box, up to the line that you made. Shovel the concrete from the wheelbarrow or bucket into the large container. Continue to fill the larger container until it reaches the mark that you made or is 2 inches (5.1 cm) high. This will form the bottom of your planter.[10]
    • If you have thicker walls, adjust the pour level of the concrete. For instance, if you marked 4 in (10 cm) from the base of the planter, fill the concrete up to the line that you marked.
  3. Step 3 Place the smaller container in the larger container. 3 Place the smaller container in the larger container.[11] Weigh down the smaller container by filling it with stones or sand. This will prevent the smaller container from floating while you finish filling the mold.[12]
  4. Step 4 Pour the wet concrete in between the smaller and larger container. 4 Pour the wet concrete in between the smaller and larger container. Slowly pour the concrete in between the containers. Continue pouring the concrete until it completely fills the mold.[13]
    • The concrete should not fill the small container or connect over the top rim of the small container.
  5. Step 5 Let the mixture cure for a full day. 5 Let the mixture cure for a full day. Set the molds aside in a place where they won’t be disturbed. Cover the top of the molds with a cloth or tarp. Wait a full day so that the concrete can fully harden and set.[14]
    • Check the instructions on your concrete bag to determine exact curing times.
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Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Finishing the Planter

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  1. Step 1 Pull out the smaller mold. 1 Pull out the smaller mold. Grab the edges of the smaller container and pull it out of the concrete. If you covered it with a plastic bag, it should come out fairly easily. Peel away any plastic that may have stuck to the inside of the larger mold.[15]
    • If you're having trouble getting the small mold out, you can use a crowbar to pry it out of the larger mold.
  2. Step 2 Flip the planter over and lift up the larger container. 2 Flip the planter over and lift up the larger container. If you sprayed the inside with cooking spray, the planter should slide out. If you used a cardboard box, peel away the sides and bottom of the box to reveal the concrete planter.[16]
    • If you're having trouble getting the planter out, don't be scared to break the larger mold.
  3. Step 3 Decorate the outside of the planter to personalize it. 3 Decorate the outside of the planter to personalize it. You can superglue stones, decorative glass, or beads to the outside of the planter to give it a more colorful look. You can use masonry paint to paint the outside of the planter if you want it to be a different color.[17]
    • Before you paint the planter with masonry paint, put a coat of block primer on the planter so that you have a flat surface to work on.[18]
    • You can use stencils to paint specific images onto your planters. Tape the stencil to the side of the planter and fill in the gaps with masonry paint.[19]
  4. Step 4 Plant your indoor... 4 Plant your indoor or outdoor plant in the planter. Fill the interior of the planter with potting mix and plant whatever flower or houseplant that you want. You may want to amend and replace the soil once a month to keep your plant alive and healthy.[20]
    • You can also grow a new plant by planting a seed in the pot.
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Video

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Expert Q&A

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  • Question How long do I have before the cement dries? Melinda Meservy Melinda Meservy Plant Specialist Melinda Meservy is a Plant Specialist and the Owner of Thyme and Places, a botanical boutique offering plants and gifts in Salt Lake City, Utah. Before starting her own business, Melinda worked in process and business improvement and data analytics. Melinda earned a BA in History from the University of Utah, is trained in lean and agile methodologies, and completed her Certified Professional Facilitator certification. Thyme and Places offered indoor plants and containers, a fully stocked potting bench, and tips on plants to suit your space and lifestyle. Thyme and Places closed in 2024. Melinda Meservy Melinda Meservy Plant Specialist Expert Answer If you're using quick-dry cement, you'll have about 15 minutes before the cement sets. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 6
  • Question How do I make a mold for concrete planters? Community Answer Community Answer Cardboard and tape can be used to make molds. Glass can be used too, but could break if no lubricants etc. are added. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 20
  • Question Is it possible to color the concrete during the process? Community Answer Community Answer You can add an integral color when you mix the concrete or you can color with an acid stain after the concrete has cured. If you use an acid stain, you will need to neutralize the acid with an ammonia/water mixture. Whether you use integral color or acid stain, it is highly recommended that you use a concrete sealer (water based is fine) before using your concrete planter — it protects the concrete and enhances the color. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 13
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Tips

  • Creating large planters with concrete can be difficult. If you're a beginner, try making a small planter to start then go from there.[21] Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Things You’ll Need

  • 2 differently sized boxes or containers
  • Plastic trash bag
  • Duct tape
  • Marker or pen
  • Cooking spray
  • Gloves
  • Concrete
  • Water
  • Wheelbarrow or bucket
  • Shovel
  • Potting mix
  • Plant

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References

  1. ↑ https://youtu.be/D_-jZzMC434?t=19
  2. ↑ Melinda Meservy. Plant Specialist. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://www.thecraftaholicwitch.com/diy-concrete-planters/
  4. ↑ https://www.thecraftaholicwitch.com/diy-concrete-planters/
  5. ↑ https://www.thecraftaholicwitch.com/diy-concrete-planters/
  6. ↑ Melinda Meservy. Plant Specialist. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ https://www.thecraftaholicwitch.com/diy-concrete-planters/
  8. ↑ Melinda Meservy. Plant Specialist. Expert Interview
  9. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/try-this-super-simple-diy-marbled-and-ombre-concrete-planters-233425
More References (12)
  1. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-make-concrete-planter
  2. ↑ Melinda Meservy. Plant Specialist. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-make-concrete-planter
  4. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-make-concrete-planter
  5. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-make-concrete-planter
  6. ↑ https://youtu.be/D_-jZzMC434?t=304
  7. ↑ https://youtu.be/D_-jZzMC434?t=312
  8. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/how-to-make-concrete-planters/
  9. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/concrete-painting/
  10. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g4124/diy-pretty-flower-pot-ideas/
  11. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/how-to-make-concrete-planters/
  12. ↑ Melinda Meservy. Plant Specialist. Expert Interview

About This Article

Ben Barkan Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This article has been viewed 394,840 times. 14 votes - 93% Co-authors: 15 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 394,840 Categories: Featured Articles | Garden Projects Article SummaryX

To make a simple concrete planter, get a pair of rectangular boxes of slightly different sizes. The smaller box should be about 2 inches (5 cm) shorter on each side than the bigger one. Wrap the smaller box in a plastic garbage bag and tape the bag in place. Measure up 2 inches (5 cm) from the inside bottom of the larger box and draw a line at that level all around the inside of the container. Coat the inside of the larger box with cooking spray to keep the concrete from sticking. Pour concrete into the bottom of the larger box up to the level of the line you drew, then set the smaller container inside the larger one. Fill the smaller box with stones or sand to keep it from floating around, then pour more concrete into the space between the sides of the two containers. Let the concrete cure for a full day, then carefully pull the smaller container out of the mold. Flip the larger container upside down to release the planter. Paint or decorate the planter however you like. For tips on decorating your finished planters, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Ben Barkan Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer Co-authors: 15 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 394,840 93% of readers found this article helpful. 14 votes - 93% Click a star to add your vote N. R.

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"I'm modeling a house in Sketchup, and needed to know the dimensions for concrete planter wall thickness...." more Rated this article: Bejay Castle

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"Your instructions were fantastic and easy to follow! I am finally excited to start my project. Thank you for..." more N. A.

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