How to Make Your Own Potted Plant Stand

A plant stand is used to elevate or hold a potted plant above the ground. Plant stands can be used outside to raise sun-loving plants over other potted plants that may be blocking light, or to add height and dimension to a plant display. Stands in the home provide a place other than a table or dresser to store plants, offering a more decorative arrangement. A simple plant stand design is easy to make with basic tools and supplies.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-3 lumber
• 1-by-1 lumber
• 3-Inch wood screws
• Wood glue
• Saw
• Hand drill with bit

Instructions

1. Determine the height of the plant stand and cut four 2-by-3s to that measurement. These will be the legs of the stand

2. Measure the plant pot to determine the length and width of the stand, and add 1 to 3 inches so that the pot fits comfortably on the stand. If the potted plant is round with a 10-inch diameter, the measurement should be a 12- to 14-inch square. If the pot is a 6-by-10-inch rectangle, the stand measurement should be 8 by 12 inches.

3. Cut four 2-by-3s to the length measurements and four to the width measurement from step 2, or eight to the same size to make a square.

4. Create one rectangle or square using four of the 2-by-3s from step 3, with the 3-inch side on the outside of the rectangle and the 2-inch side on the top and bottom. Drill two holes at each corner of the rectangle, apply wood glue and screw wood screws into the holes to attach the pieces. Drilling holes before putting the screws in will prevent cracking the in lumber.

5. Attach the four 2-by-3 legs from step 1 to the bottom of the rectangle, using the same method from step 4 to screw the legs into place. The 3-inch side of the lumber should be facing the front of the stand.

6. Reinforce the strength of the legs by making crossbeams with the remaining four 2-by-3s from step 3. Install the 2-by-3s by creating a rectangle an inch or two from the bottom of the legs, attaching the 2-by-3s in the same manner as step 4.

7. Cut the 1-by-1s to the width measurement from step 3. Attach the 1-by-1s with wood glue and nails across the top of the plant stand, spacing the pieces ½ inch apart so that rain water can pass through.

Tips & Warnings

• Stain the wood to add color or use a sealant to protect against damage from the elements.

References

• New Wood Worker