Inside: Discover creative and simple ways to use pallets in your garden. These ideas can help you add personality and function to your outdoor space.
If you’re looking to refresh your garden without spending a lot, pallets are a great option. You can turn old pallets into useful and attractive garden features that fit your style and space.
Whether you want to grow plants vertically or create unique furniture, pallets offer many possibilities to make your garden more enjoyable.
1. Vertical herb garden pallet
You can turn a wooden pallet into a simple vertical herb garden. Just attach small pots or create pockets with fabric to hold soil and plants.
This setup saves space and looks great on a wall or fence. It’s perfect for growing herbs like basil, mint, or parsley close to your kitchen.
Make sure to water regularly and place it where your plants get enough sunlight.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Choose heat-treated pallets to avoid harmful chemicals. Always line the pallet with plastic to protect wood and soil.”
2. Pallet raised bed for veggies
You can build a raised bed using old pallets to grow your own vegetables. Pallets that are heat treated, kiln dried, or debarked are safe to use in your garden. Just take apart the pallet and arrange the wood to create a sturdy frame.
This method saves money and lets you recycle materials. Raised beds also help you control the soil quality and keep pests away. You can grow more veggies in less space this way.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Make sure to seal the wood with a non-toxic finish to protect it from weather. Choose pallets labeled HT or KD to avoid chemicals.”
3. Hanging pallet succulent planter
You can turn a pallet into a hanging succulent garden to save space and add greenery to your walls. Simply attach small pots or plant pockets to the pallet slats. Succulents need good drainage, so make sure to line the planter with a breathable material.
Hang it where it gets plenty of sunlight but not direct all day. Water sparingly, as succulents store water in their leaves.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use a sturdy hook and strong rope to hang your planter safely. Rotate your pallet occasionally to help all plants get even sunlight.”
4. Pallet flower wall
A pallet flower wall is a great way to add color and life to a blank space. You can attach pots or plant holders directly to the pallet slats. This creates a vertical garden that saves space and looks neat.
Use flowers that don’t need deep soil, like petunias or pansies. Make sure to secure the pallet well on a sturdy wall or fence. Water the plants regularly to keep them healthy.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Choose lightweight pots to avoid stressing the pallet. Rotate your plants often to keep the wall looking fresh and full.”
5. Pallet compost bin
You can make a simple compost bin using old pallets. Just stand them up and screw them together to create a square or rectangle shape. This lets air flow through, helping your compost break down faster.
A pallet compost bin is easy to move or expand if needed. You only need a few tools like a drill and screws. It’s a quick way to recycle pallets and improve your garden soil.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Place your pallet bin in a shady spot to keep moisture balanced. Turn your compost every week to speed up the process.”
6. Pallet potting bench
A pallet potting bench gives you a sturdy workspace for your gardening tasks. You can build one quickly using just two or three pallets. It’s perfect for planting seeds, potting plants, and organizing tools.
Make sure to sand the wood well to avoid splinters. Adding hooks or shelves can help keep your tools handy and your bench tidy.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use outdoor paint or sealant to protect your bench from weather damage. It will last longer and stay looking good.”
7. Freestanding pallet trellis
A freestanding pallet trellis is perfect if you want a movable structure for climbing plants. You can lean or secure the pallet vertically to support vines like beans, peas, or cucumbers. It creates extra growing space without taking up ground area.
Build it sturdy enough to hold plant weight and wind. Painting or sealing the wood can help it last longer outdoors.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Make sure your trellis has wide feet for stability. Use zip ties or garden wire to train plants as they grow.”
8. Pallet garden pathway
You can use pallet wood to create a sturdy garden pathway. Lay the pallets flat and secure them on the ground for a natural walking surface. This helps keep dirt from getting on your shoes and adds a rustic look to your garden.
Choose pallets that are in good condition to avoid splinters and broken boards. You can also paint or stain the wood to match your garden style.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Make sure to place landscape fabric under the pallets to prevent weeds from growing through. Seal the wood to protect it from weather damage.”
9. Pallet vertical strawberry planter
You can turn a wooden pallet into a vertical strawberry planter by filling its gaps with soil. Place the pallet upright or lean it against a wall to save space. The slats hold the soil and give each plant room to grow.
Make sure to use good potting soil and water regularly. This setup helps strawberries get enough sunlight and air, reducing plant diseases.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use landscape fabric to line the pallet for better soil retention. Always check the moisture since vertical planters dry out faster.”
10. Stacked pallet planter box
You can create a garden by stacking wooden pallets to form tiered planter boxes. This setup works well in small spaces like balconies or patios. Each level can hold different herbs, flowers, or vegetables.
Stacking pallets this way helps save space and adds a cool visual layer to your garden. Make sure to secure the pallets so they stay stable and water can drain well.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use landscape fabric inside the pallets to hold soil but still allow water to flow. Stack pallets on a level surface to keep your garden steady.”
11. Pallet planter with built-in irrigation
You can turn a pallet into a planter that waters itself. Add a simple drip system or small water reservoir inside the pallet to keep plants hydrated. This helps reduce the time you spend watering and keeps soil moist longer.
Make sure to place the pallet where water can drain easily. Choose plants that don’t need too much water to avoid overwatering.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use a slow-drip bottle or tubing to control water flow. It saves water and keeps plants healthy without extra effort.”
12. Pallet garden swing bench
You can turn old pallets into a cozy garden swing bench. It’s a simple project that adds a relaxing spot to your outdoor space. Use sturdy pallets and make sure to sand them well for safety.
Hang the bench with strong ropes or chains from a secure frame or tree. Add cushions or plants around it for comfort and style.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Choose pallets with no chemicals or paint for safer use. Seal the wood to protect it from weather and last longer.”
13. Pallet garden chair with planter arms
You can build a garden chair using pallets and add planters on each armrest. This saves space and adds greenery close to where you sit. It’s a simple way to blend seating and garden in one piece.
Use waterproof lining inside the planter to protect the wood. Make sure the chair is sturdy by reinforcing the joints well.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Choose plants that don’t need much soil or water to keep things low maintenance. Use liners to prevent water damage and keep your chair lasting longer.”
14. Pallet garden tool organizer
You can turn an old wooden pallet into a simple tool organizer for your garden. Just stand it against a wall or hang it up, then use hooks or nails to hold your tools. This keeps everything easy to find and off the ground.
It’s a cheap way to keep your space neat without buying new shelves. You can also paint or stain the pallet to match your garden style.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use different sized hooks to fit all your tools securely. Attach small buckets or containers to hold gloves and seeds too.”
15. Pallet sandbox for kids
You can easily turn pallets into a sandbox for your kids. It takes just a couple of pallets and some sand to build a safe play area. Adding a simple lid can keep the sand clean and dry when not in use.
A folding lid can also double as a bench for extra seating. This project usually takes a few hours and needs basic tools.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use untreated pallets to avoid harmful chemicals. Seal the wood with a non-toxic finish to protect it from weather.”
16. Pallet garden storage box
You can build a storage box using pallet wood to keep your gardening tools and supplies organized. It’s a simple project that saves space and recycles old pallets.
These boxes can be made with a lid to protect your items from rain. They also blend well in your garden since they use natural wood.
You can add wheels to make the box easy to move around. This helps if you need to carry tools to different garden spots.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use weatherproof sealant to protect your storage box from moisture. Always sand the wood to avoid splinters and make it safe to handle.”
17. Pallet tomato tower
A pallet tomato tower uses a vertical wood pallet to hold tomato plants in small pockets. You can fill the pockets with soil and plant seedlings, saving space in your garden. This setup is great for growing many tomatoes in a small area.
Make sure to water regularly as the soil in pockets dries faster. Place the pallet where it gets plenty of sun for healthier plants.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use a sturdy pallet and secure it well to avoid tipping. Water deeply to keep tomatoes thriving in tight spaces.”
18. Pallet microgreens frame
You can use a pallet frame to grow microgreens easily. Attach shallow trays or small containers to the pallet slats. This setup saves space and lets you harvest fresh greens quickly.
Microgreens need good light and regular watering. A vertical pallet frame fits well on a wall, making it perfect for small spaces. You can grow different types side by side for variety.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Choose a pallet with wide slats for easier tray attachment. Keep your microgreens in indirect sunlight to prevent drying out too fast.”
19. Pallet nursery seed starter
You can use a pallet to create a simple seed starter for your nursery plants. Just attach trays or small pots to the pallet to hold the soil and seeds. This saves space and keeps your seedlings organized.
Place the pallet where it gets enough sunlight and water regularly. The open wood lets air flow around the seedlings, which helps them grow strong.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Line the pallet with plastic or a tray to catch excess water. This keeps your seed starter area clean and prevents wood damage.”
20. Pallet herb spiral garden
You can create a herb spiral using a wooden pallet to save space and add vertical interest. Arrange herbs in a spiral shape, starting with larger plants at the bottom and smaller ones on top. This design helps with water drainage and sunlight exposure for all your herbs.
Using a pallet makes it easy to move the garden around. It’s great for small patios or balconies where space is limited.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Make sure to line the pallet with landscape fabric to keep soil in place. Water the herbs regularly, as vertical gardens dry out faster.”
21. Pallet wine crate planter
You can use old wine crates attached to a pallet to create a unique planter. This gives you small, separate spaces for different plants. Keep in mind wine crates may not last long outside if they get wet often.
Line the crates with plastic before adding soil to protect the wood. This helps your plants stay healthy without damaging the crates.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Make sure to add drainage holes to prevent water buildup. Use sealed crates for longer life outside.”
22. Pallet garden fence sections
You can use pallet sections to build garden fences that are both functional and decorative. These fences help define your garden space and can hold small plants or flowers. You can leave the wood natural for a rustic look or paint it to match your garden style.
Make sure to treat the wood to protect it from water damage. Pallet fence sections are easy to move and rearrange as your garden grows.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Seal your pallet wood before planting near it to prevent rot. Use brackets to secure fence sections for extra stability.”
23. Pallet garden gate
You can build a garden gate using old pallets quickly and cheaply. It adds a rustic look and fits well with wooden fences.
Make sure to sand the pallet wood to avoid splinters. Adding a simple latch will keep it functional and secure.
A pallet gate is a great way to reuse wood and brighten up your garden entrance.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use weatherproof sealant to protect your pallet gate from rain. Regularly check hinges to keep it working smoothly.”
24. Pallet butterfly habitat planter
You can turn old pallets into a butterfly habitat planter by shaping the wood like butterfly wings. Fill the planter with flowers that attract butterflies, like milkweed and lavender. This adds beauty while helping local pollinators thrive.
Place your planter where it gets sunlight and some shelter from the wind. Use durable wood and seal it to last longer outdoors.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Choose native flowering plants to support local butterflies better. Water the planter regularly, but avoid overwatering to keep flowers healthy.”
25. Pallet garden art display
You can turn a pallet garden into an art display by painting the wood in bright or soft colors. Adding small decorations like ceramic pieces or metal shapes makes your garden look unique and personal.
Use the pallet’s sections to create patterns or frames for your plants.
This idea helps you mix gardening with creativity. Your pallet garden can become a focal point in your yard or balcony.
Expert Tip from MrPlanter: “Use weatherproof paint to keep colors fresh longer. Add small hooks for hanging lightweight decor to change the look anytime.”