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How to Make a Deck Rail Planter

This easy DIY planter can be made for a deck railing, porch balcony or hung under a window to make a window flower box.

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Photo: Image courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn

Make Your Own Rail Planter

This easy project gives your pots a stylish home on your deck or window. You will need: pre-cut 1’ wide planks of 3/4” thick pressure-treated pine plank (length of plank is determined by size of window or span of deck railing) / measuring tape / galvanized pots / pencil or marker / drill / 3/4" drill bit / jigsaw / wooden shelf brackets / wooden shelf brackets / 1" decking screws (for attaching to deck railing) / 1" masonry, wood or metal screws (depending on exterior of house) / foliage plants or flowers / potting soil

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Photo: Image courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn

Step 1: Space Pots Along Pine Plank

Place pots upside down along the pine plank. Using a measuring tape, measure equal distance between each pot, ensuring all are centered and properly spaced. Mark spacing with pencil or marker.

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Photo: Image courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn

Step 2: Trace Pots to Plank

Referring to the marks made for spacing, trace the top of the galvanized pot onto the pine plank.

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Photo: Image courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn

Step 3: Mark Center Point

To create a snug fit for the galvanized pot, trace a second circle 1" from the original circle. This second circle will be where you will cut.

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