Why Cedar is the Ideal Choice for a Small Garden Planter

Cedar has long been prized by woodworkers for its natural resistance to rot, insects and the British weather. Unlike many softwoods, cedar contains oils that repel moisture, so it stands up to rain and frost without needing chemical preservatives. For a small garden, a cedar planter offers a warm, honey-toned focal point that ages gracefully to a silvery grey if left untreated. It is also lightweight enough to move when you want to rearrange your pots, yet sturdy enough to hold a decent amount of compost. Whether you are growing herbs on a patio or a small shrub by the door, cedar gives you durability without the fuss.

Planning the Dimensions and Cutting Your Boards

For a compact space, a rectangular planter measuring 60cm long, 30cm wide and 30cm deep is a practical size. It holds enough soil for healthy roots but remains easy to shift. You will need cedar boards of 20mm thickness. Ask your local timber merchant to cut them, or cut them yourself with a fine-tooth saw. A simple cut list for this planter is:

• Two long sides: 60cm x 30cm
• Two short sides: 26cm x 30cm (the 26cm allows for the thickness of the long sides)
• One base: 56cm x 26cm
• Four corner battens: 30cm x 4cm x 4cm (optional, for added strength)

If you prefer a square planter, try 40cm x 40cm x 30cm deep. Always measure twice and cut once. Sand any rough edges with medium-grade abrasive paper, working in the direction of the grain.

Assembling the Planter for Strength and Drainage

Good drainage is essential for healthy plants, so start with the base. Drill a series of 10mm holes across the bottom board, spaced about 10cm apart. This prevents waterlogging. Next, attach the base to the short sides using galvanised or stainless steel screws — these resist rust far better than ordinary screws. Pre-drill your holes to avoid splitting the cedar, especially near the ends of boards. Use a waterproof wood glue along the joints for extra hold, then clamp the pieces while you drive the screws. Finally, attach the long sides to the short sides and the base. If you are using corner battens, screw them into the inside corners to reinforce the structure. A spirit level placed across the top will tell you if the planter sits flat.

Protecting the Wood Naturally

Cedar is durable on its own, but a little natural protection will extend its life and keep it looking rich. Avoid polyurethane varnishes, which trap moisture and peel. Instead, use a breathable oil such as raw linseed oil, tung oil or a beeswax-based wood butter. Apply two thin coats with a lint-free cloth, allowing several hours of drying time between coats. Wipe away any excess so the surface does not stay tacky. Reapply once a year, ideally in early spring before the growing season. If you love the weathered silver-grey look, you can leave the planter untreated — just check for any signs of splitting or moss, which can be scrubbed away with a stiff brush.

Planting Up and Pairing with Handmade Ceramics

Fill your planter with a good-quality peat-free compost, leaving a 2cm gap below the rim for watering. For a small garden, choose compact plants: herbs like rosemary and thyme, salad leaves, or dwarf bulbs. A cedar planter also makes a beautiful home for a small ceramic pot nestled inside — perhaps a hand-thrown stoneware container for a delicate fern. This pairing of wood and clay brings a quiet, handmade warmth to a patio or balcony. If you are using a ceramic pot inside the planter, ensure it has drainage holes too, and empty any saucer regularly to prevent the cedar from sitting in water.

Caring for Your Planter Through the Seasons

In winter, lift the planter onto small feet or bricks to keep the base off wet paving. This improves air circulation and stops water pooling underneath. Check the screws each spring and tighten any that have worked loose. If you notice the wood drying out, a fresh coat of oil will restore its colour. With minimal care, a cedar planter will last for a decade or more — far longer than a cheap plastic pot. And because it is handmade, it carries the small imperfections and character that only natural wood can offer. Whether you fill it with kitchen herbs or a favourite flower, it becomes a quiet piece of craft in your home's outdoor space.