Mailbox planter box wrap around
A creative and functional idea! A wrap-around planter box for a mailbox can add a touch of personality to your home's exterior while also providing a convenient spot for plants. Here's a plan to help you get started:
Materials needed:
- 2" x 6" or 2" x 8" lumber (depending on the size of your mailbox and the design you want to achieve)
- Wood screws
- Weather-resistant wood glue
- Waterproof plywood or MDF (for the bottom of the planter box)
- Soil and plants of your choice
- Decorative trim (optional)
- Paint or stain (optional)
Design considerations:
- Measure your mailbox to determine the size of the planter box you'll need. You'll want to make sure the box is large enough to fit around the mailbox, but not so large that it overwhelms the surrounding area.
- Consider the style of your home and the surrounding landscape when choosing the design and materials for your planter box. You may want to match the style of your home's exterior or choose a design that complements the surrounding plants and hardscaping.
- Think about the type of plants you want to use in your planter box. You'll want to choose plants that are suitable for outdoor use and can thrive in the amount of sunlight and shade your mailbox receives.
Instructions:
- Cut the lumber to the required length for the planter box. You'll need four pieces for the sides, two pieces for the top and bottom, and one piece for the back.
- Assemble the planter box by screwing the sides together with weather-resistant wood screws. Make sure the corners are secure and the box is square.
- Attach the top and bottom pieces to the sides using weather-resistant wood screws. Make sure the top and bottom pieces are flush with the sides.
- Cut the waterproof plywood or MDF to fit the bottom of the planter box. Attach it to the box using weather-resistant wood screws.
- Add a layer of weather-resistant wood glue to the inside of the planter box and attach the decorative trim (if using).
- Fill the planter box with soil and plants of your choice.
- Attach the planter box to the mailbox using screws or nails. Make sure the box is securely attached and won't topple over in the wind.
Tips and variations:
- To add extra support to the planter box, you can attach it to the mailbox using brackets or a French cleat.
- Consider adding a trellis or other support system to the planter box to help plants grow upwards.
- You can use a variety of materials for the planter box, such as recycled plastic or composite materials.
- If you're not comfortable building the planter box from scratch, you can purchase a pre-made planter box or use a planter box kit.
- You can also add a roof or a lid to the planter box to protect the plants from the elements.