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.

By: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Photo By: Image courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn

Photo By: 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

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.

Step 2: Trace Pots to Plank

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

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.

Step 4: Drill Starter Hole

Using a 3/4" drill bit, drill a hole inside of the innermost circle to create a starting point for the jigsaw.

Step 5: Cut Out Holes

With the jigsaw placed into the starter hole, cut around the traced circle to create an opening for each galvanized pot. Repeat on each tracing.

Step 6: Secure Brackets

Use the drill to secure wooden brackets to the deck railing or exterior of the home with 1” wood, masonry or metal screws.

Porch Railing Planter

Flip the pine plank over so that any trace marks are facing downward and secure the pine plank to wooden brackets. Place each galvanized pot inside of the drilled holes and add plants or flowers.