How to Build a Raised Garden Bed From Pallets

Learn how to create a mobile container garden with a wooden pallet, reclaimed shutters and casters.

Related To:

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Photo by: Susan Teare ©Susan Teare

Susan Teare, Susan Teare

A garden on wheels is great throughout the growing season. In spring, keep the garden in direct sunlight to give the plants a healthy start. Then in the hotter summer months, roll the garden to a shaded spot.

Materials

sturdy wood pallet
(4) 2x4 x 8"
(4) 1x8 x 48"
four recycled plastic shutters for decoration (optional)
recycled wood (not pressure-treated)
(4) 4-inch caster wheels

decking screws
no-VOC exterior-grade paint
landscaping fabric
bag of drainage stones
planting soil
compost

Tools

miter saw
level
drill
tape measure

shovel or trowel
paintbrush
scissors
staple gun

Determine Wheel Placement

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Measure the bottom of the pallet. Mark equal distances in four corners for the caster placement.

Attach Wheels

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Use decking (galvanized) screws to fasten the casters onto the pallet. It’s best to use wheels that turn in every direction.

Paint Pallet

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Paint the top of the pallet with eco-friendly, exterior paint that can withstand water seeping through the landscape fabric and soil.

Cut Side Pieces

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Cut the plywood to create sides for the pallet, and make sure they fit on the edges of the pallet.

Attach Sides

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Use pieces of 2x4 in each corner to secure the sides to each other. When all four sides are attached to one another, attach it to the pallet by toe-nailing the 2x4 corners. Flip over the whole thing, and insert a few screws through the bottom of the pallet into the 2x4s.

Add Decorative Sides

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For a finished look, add recycled plastic shutters to the sides. Use decking screws to attach the shutters. Paint the top edge of the wood sides to match the shutters.