How to Mold Concrete Planters
Concrete planters have a rustic look that's perfect for your deck, patio or front porch. They can also be used in sunrooms or anywhere you would normally put potted plants.
Experiment with textures, designs and colors as you create. Start by purchasing plastic containers in sizes that suit your plants.
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Things You'll Need
- Plastic containers
- Drop cloths
- Motor oil
- Tube or wooden dowel
- Concrete mix
- Water for mixing concrete
- Sand
Instructions
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1
Decide what size planter you'll need for your plants. Purchase plastic nursery containers in two sizes: one for the outer mold and another for the inner mold. The size and shape doesn't matter as long as there is one larger planter and a smaller one that fits easily inside the larger one. The space between the two containers will be the wall thickness of your finished concrete planter.
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2
Set up a work station on a table or workbench. Put drop cloths or plastic sheeting down to protect any surfaces nearby from the cement mixture.
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3
Drill or cut a hole in the bottom of both planters for drainage, if there isn't one there already. Wipe the inside of the larger planter with a cloth dipped in half teaspoon of motor oil. Wipe the bottom first then the insides with a very thin coat. Wipe the outsides and bottom of the smaller container.
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4
Mix concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions and set it aside. Add coloring agents, if desired (see Resources).
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Place the larger container on the drop cloth or plastic. Place a piece of plastic tubing into the drainage hole and pour about a 1-inch thick layer of concrete into the container.
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Continue to hold onto the tube and insert it into the drainage hole of the smaller container. Slide the tube through the drainage hole of the smaller container and let it rest on the concrete you've just poured. Release the tube.
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7
Center the smaller container inside the larger container. Hold onto the tube again and fill the small container with sand to keep it in place. Fill the space between the inner and outer containers with the remaining cement. Check again for centeredness.
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Allow the concrete to harden. Time to harden will vary depending on the mix you've selected. Loosen and remove the molds. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 4 days before planting anything in them.
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Tips & Warnings
For a ribbed exterior, use a ribbed outer container. If you would like to carve some designs onto the cement surface, carefully remove the external container before it's completely dry (not still wet, though) and gently carve names or designs.
Resources
- Photo Credit Stan Shebs
