Gardening with Pallets

Gardening with pallets offers an affordable and eco-friendly approach to creating a garden space. Pallets, typically discarded by businesses, can be repurposed into planters, raised beds, or vertical gardens. Using pallets requires a blend of creativity and basic crafting skills. This article explains how to source, prepare, and use pallets in your garden.

Sourcing Pallets

Pallets can be found at warehouses, grocery stores, and hardware shops. It’s vital to choose pallets that are safe for gardening. Look for stamps on the pallets. Pallets marked with HT have been heat-treated and are safe to use. Avoid pallets labeled MB, as these have been treated with methyl bromide, a chemical harmful to plants and humans. Ensure the pallets are in good condition without excessive damage or stains.

Preparing Pallets

Once you have sourced suitable pallets, clean them thoroughly. Use a firm brush and soapy water to remove dirt. After cleaning, sand down any rough edges to prevent splinters. If you plan to use the pallets for growing edible plants, line them with landscape fabric. This helps retain soil and prevents contaminants from leaching into your plants.

Creating a Vertical Garden

Vertical gardening with pallets saves space and can beautify a wall or fence. Start by selecting a pallet in good condition. Lay the pallet flat and fill its slats with potting soil. Secure the soil by stapling landscape fabric to the back and sides of the pallet. Once secure, plant herbs, succulents, or small flowers in the gaps between slats. Finally, tilt the pallet upright and ensure it’s stable against a vertical surface. Water your new vertical garden regularly, and enjoy the added green space.

Building Raised Beds

Pallets can also be deconstructed to create wooden frames for raised beds. Carefully disassemble the pallet using a crowbar and hammer. Remove any nails and sand the wood pieces. Arrange the wood pieces into a rectangle and secure the corners with screws. Place the frame on a level spot in your garden and line it with landscape fabric. Fill the bed with quality soil and compost. Raised beds are ideal for growing vegetables, providing better drainage and easier access for planting and weeding.

Making Planters

To create a simple pallet planter, use the pallet as it is. Stand it up vertically and attach small pots or fabric pouches to the individual slats. Secure the pots with hooks or screws. Choose a variety of plants to grow, such as strawberries, herbs, or annual flowers. Arrange the plants to create an appealing visual display. Water and care for your plants according to their needs.

Pallet Compost Bin

Constructing a compost bin from pallets is straightforward. Use four pallets to form a square. Stand each pallet on its side and secure the corners with wire or zip ties. This open structure allows air to circulate, speeding up the composting process. Add kitchen scraps, garden waste, and dry leaves. Turn the compost monthly with a pitchfork. In a few months, you’ll have rich compost to enrich your garden soil.

Creating Garden Furniture

Pallets can be transformed into practical garden furniture like benches, tables, or garden tool organizers. For a bench, stack two pallets on top of each other for the seat and use additional pallet pieces for the backrest and arms. Secure everything with screws and finish with a coat of outdoor paint or stain. For a garden table, lay a pallet flat and add four sturdy legs. Garden tool organizers can be made by standing a pallet upright against a wall and attaching hooks to the slats for hanging tools.

Tips for Success

• Always wear gloves when handling pallets to avoid splinters and injuries.
• Use non-toxic paint and finishes if you plan to grow edible plants in or around the pallets.
• Regularly check for structural stability, especially for vertical gardens and furniture.
• Consider using a weatherproof sealer to extend the life of the wood exposed to elements.

Recycling pallets into garden products is a sustainable method. Not only do you reduce waste, but you also create unique and functional elements for your garden. With a little effort and creativity, pallets can be transformed into versatile assets in your gardening endeavors.