There’s something deeply satisfying about growing your own herbs. A few sprigs of rosemary to chuck in with some potatoes, fresh mint for tea, basil for summer salads – it makes meals feel just that bit more special.
The good news is you don’t need loads of space or fancy equipment. With some reclaimed pallet wood and a handful of tools, you can build a simple herb box in an afternoon.
Materials
- Pallet wood with nails removed
- Screws – we used 4 x 40mm
- Weed suppressant fabric
- Soil
- Herb plants or seeds
Tools
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Saw
- Power drill
- 2mm wood or metal drill bit
- Screwdriver or screwdriver bit for drill
- Staple gun
- Scissors
If you don’t have a workbench, don’t worry. A sturdy raised surface or even a bin lid can work in a pinch.
Step 1 – Measure Your Wood
You’ll need:
- 3 pieces at 50cm long – these will form the front, back and base
- 2 pieces at 13cm long – these will be the sides
When measuring, mark the top, middle and bottom of each board, then join the marks with a straight line. This helps keep your cut neat and square.
The base piece should be slightly wider than the front and back pieces if possible.
Step 2 – Cut the Wood
Position the wood so the section you’re cutting hangs slightly over the edge of your surface.
Start sawing slowly to create a small groove for the blade to sit in. Once the cut has started, use the full length of the saw for smoother, more even cutting. It will also help your saw last longer.
Stand to one side of the saw rather than directly behind it. That way, if it slips, you’re out of the way.
Step 3 – Drill Pilot Holes
Before adding screws, drill pilot holes. These are small guide holes that make screwing easier and help prevent the wood from cracking.
A couple of tips:
- Make sure the drill bit sits properly between the three jaws of the chuck. If it’s wonky, the hole will be too.
- The drill bit should be thinner than your screw. For 4mm thick screws, use a smaller bit like 2mm.
We used 4 x 40mm screws – 4mm is the thickness and 40mm is the length. The screw needs to be long enough to go securely into both pieces of wood.
Step 4 – Build the Frame
Start by attaching the two 13cm side pieces to the 50cm front and back pieces to create a rectangle.
Drill pilot holes at each corner of the side pieces, then fix them in place with screws using your drill or a manual screwdriver.
Once you’ve got your rectangular frame, add the base.
If the base isn’t quite as wide as the frame, don’t worry. Just centre it so the gaps on either side are even. Drill two pilot holes and secure it at each end with screws.
Take a moment here to admire your work. You’ve built a planter!
Step 5 – Line the Planter
Roll out your weed suppressant fabric and press it into the inside of the box, making sure it reaches all corners.
Cut it to size with scissors, fold any rough edges under for a neat finish, and secure it in place with a staple gun.
This lining helps keep soil in place while allowing water to drain.
Step 6 – Fill and Plant
Add your soil and herbs or seeds.
Think about where your herb box will live. If it’s going outdoors, you might want to add a coat of paint or varnish to protect the wood. If it’s for a windowsill, choose herbs that thrive indoors.
Some easy starters include:
- Basil
- Parsley
- Chives
- Mint
- Thyme
Give them a good watering, place your box somewhere with decent light, and you’re good to go.
Happy growing!
