Today I’m sharing how to build a garden box on a budget. It’s simple, and anyone with basic knowledge of power tools can build this project. Enjoy!

We’re growing things. Our garden is bursting at the seams with tomatoes, spinach, radishes, carrots and more. It’s been so wonderful to walk outside my door and grab the veggies for dinner! My favorite vegetable to grow has been radishes. I haven’t always liked them, but we recently realized the greens are delicious when sauteed with some garlic.

We built two of these boxes at 4′ x 4′ for our small garden. Check out the directions on How to Build a Garden Box below for more information.

2019 update: We built these boxes in 2012 and they are still holding up. 

Supplies for One Box:

• (4) 2×6 x 8′: Rot-resistant wood (untreated cedar is perfect)
• 4 framing angles
• (32) #8 – 1 1/4″ exterior wood screws
• boiled linseed oil

Tools:

• Gloves and an old rag
• Electric screwdriver
• Level
• Shovel
• Dirt

Directions:

Step 1:

Cut your wood to size. Cut each 2×6 x 8′ to four feet long. You should now have eight 2×6 x 4′ boards.

Step 2:

Position two planks together. Screw in the corner bracket and repeat this with all the remaining pieces of wood, until you’ve created a square.

Step 3:

Now, it’s time to apply some boiled linseed oil. It’s not necessary to do this, but it will extend the life of your garden box. While wearing gloves, use a rag to apply a layer of the boiled linseed oil on the wood.

Side note: linseed oil can be flammable. Please be sure to read the directions carefully.

3. It’s time to put your box in the garden! We chose a spot in full sun. First, we had to dig a hole to level it out, which also helped to make the box sturdier. If you don’t plan on digging a hole to install, I suggest hammering some wooden stakes next to the box to make it stronger.

Step 4:

Add some dirt, fertilizer, and plants. Watch your garden grow!

Are you a gardener?

If you make this DIY I’d love to see it. You can tag me on Instagram @thepapermama!

– Chelsey

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