This project is perfect for those who love gardening but don't have enough space. Create a functional and beautiful vertical garden in your outdoor space with just a few used wooden pallets.
We'll guide you through each step to ensure you're on track no matter your skill level. For a step-by-step video tutorial on how to make your own reclaimed wood garden trellis, check out our video tutorials on YouTube.
tools needed
You can embark on your woodworking journey using any available tools, but here is a list of tools I used to create a clip-on pallet wood vertical garden.
- Crow bar
- pound hammer
- jigsaw puzzle
- claw hammer
- jointer thread
- table saw
- sliding compound miter saw
- brad naylor
- angle grinder
- Drill
- impact driver
material
For this project, I used one locally available wooden pallet. Reddit and social media are good places to start your search. You can ask your warehouse if they have old pallets you can throw away, contact your pallet company, or visit a sawmill that sells reclaimed wood.
You will also need:
- waterproof wood glue
- 38mm 18 gauge brad nail
- 40 grit sanding disc
- pair of steel hooks
- 4x 40mm plywood screws
Additionally, the project will take approximately 2 hours to complete, but this will vary depending on your skill level and available tools and materials.
Vertical garden specifications
The design and layout of your vertical garden will depend on the type of pallet you use. Elaine Parry shares different ideas on her Pinterest. Be creative and plan a layout that suits your needs and preferences. Decide on the layout/pattern of the pallets you have and measure the dimensions of the strips you want to use accordingly.
step by step process
- Remove the two narrow boards from the pallet using a crowbar and pound hammer.
- Use a claw hammer to pull out the nail.
- Cut out half of the center board using a jigsaw and cut straight out with a speed square.
- Straighten the edges of the board using a jointer sled and a table saw.
- Cut the board to size using the miter saw's fence and stop block.
- Secure the strips to the pallet using water-resistant wood glue and brad nails.
- Use an angle grinder to clean and smooth the wood surface.
- Attach the hooks to the back of the vertical garden, avoiding the nails on the pallet blocks.
- Drill a pilot hole using an impact driver and secure the hook with a screw.
- Place the vertical garden on the vibrating concrete wall and make sure the hooks are firmly fixed.
- Plant your garden with your favorite plants such as succulents and herbs in suitable pots.
- Allow the wood to weather naturally. No special treatment is required.
- You can use a watering can to water your plants for easy irrigation.
Embrace this process and enjoy the results of your pallet wood vertical garden to add a touch of greenery to your outdoor space. Enjoy your project!
About the author
Michael Martin and Nikki Rixon started a business called Reclaim Design in 2013. For more videos packed with practical advice, eco-friendly tips, and inspiration to live a more sustainable life, subscribe to their YouTube channel.