DIY Project

Garden

Cast concrete planters

Modern, chunky concrete pots cast in plastic food containers, with a real drain hole for healthy plants.

Cast concrete planters
LevelIntermediate
Time1 1/2 hours plus 3 days curing
Cost$15 to $25 for 4

What you'll need

Materials

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Tools

How to make it

Safety

Wear gloves, a dust mask and eye protection when mixing, since wet concrete is caustic and can burn skin.

  1. Step 1: Prep the molds
    1

    Prep the molds

    Spray the inside of the big container and the outside of the small one. Glue a cork to the center of the big one's bottom for the drain hole.

  2. Step 2: Mix the concrete
    2

    Mix the concrete

    Add water slowly and mix until it's like thick brownie batter. Too wet makes weak pots.

  3. Step 3: Fill the bottom
    3

    Fill the bottom

    Pour about 1 in of concrete into the big container, around the cork.

  4. Step 4: Set the inner mold
    4

    Set the inner mold

    Press the small container in and weigh it down with rocks. Fill the gap around it to the top.

  5. Step 5: Tap out the bubbles
    5

    Tap out the bubbles

    Tap the sides for 1 minute. You'll see bubbles rise. Fewer bubbles, fewer holes.

  6. Step 6: Wait and unmold
    6

    Wait and unmold

    Cover with a plastic bag for 24 to 48 hours. Twist out the inner mold and pull off the outer one.

  7. Step 7: Cure and rinse
    7

    Cure and rinse

    Keep it damp under plastic for 2 more days. Sand the rim and soak it in water overnight before planting.

Edie's tip

Fresh concrete is very alkaline. The overnight soak protects your plant's roots.

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