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Elevate your outdoor space with a DIY planter box bench, a charming and practical addition that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. This project allows you to create a welcoming seating area while simultaneously adding vibrant greenery to your garden, patio, or balcony.

Materials You'll Need:

Lumber: Choose durable, weather-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. You'll need lumber for the bench frame, planter box sides, and bottom.
Fasteners: Use screws or nails suitable for outdoor use.
Waterproof sealant: Protect your wood from the elements with a sealant specifically designed for outdoor use.
Hardware: Depending on the design, you may need hinges, brackets, or other hardware for assembling the bench and planter.
Planter liner: Ensure proper drainage and protect your wood by using a landscape fabric or plastic liner for the planter box.
Soil and plants: Choose soil appropriate for your chosen plants and select species that thrive in your climate and sunlight conditions.

Steps to Building Your Planter Box Bench:

1. Design and Measure: Sketch a design, determining the dimensions of your bench and planter. Consider your space, desired seating height, and the size of the plants you plan to grow.
2. Cut and Assemble the Frame: Cut the lumber for the bench frame to your specifications, ensuring all pieces are square and level. Assemble the frame using screws or nails.
3. Construct the Planter Box: Cut lumber for the planter box sides and bottom, then assemble them into a rectangular shape.
4. Attach the Planter to the Frame: Secure the planter box to the bench frame, ensuring a snug fit.
5. Add a Liner: Line the planter box with landscape fabric or plastic to prevent soil from escaping and protect the wood.
6. Finish and Seal: Sand all surfaces smooth and apply a waterproof sealant to protect the wood from moisture and weathering.
7. Install the Bench and Plant: Find a sunny spot for your planter box bench and install it. Fill the planter with soil and your chosen plants.

Tips for Success:

Pre-drill holes: To prevent splitting, pre-drill holes for screws and nails before fastening.
Check for square: Ensure the bench frame and planter box are square and level throughout the construction process.
Consider drainage: Ensure the planter box has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Choose hardy plants: Select plants suitable for your location's climate and that can tolerate the conditions of the planter box.

Enjoy your new planter box bench, a charming addition to your outdoor space that brings together beauty and functionality. Remember to maintain the wood by applying a fresh coat of sealant every few years to keep your creation looking its best.