I was wandering around the store looking to build-up my little spring-lawn when I came across some plants…and an idea. My lovelies, this is the coolest spring project. A DIY Easy Upcycled Pallet Gardening Bed for Toddlers. Yeah, a garden sized just right for littlies.
This was just such a fun idea. I mean, that one spot in the yard that really needs the support (you know that spot, we all have one), well, I knew it would be so much more fun with a little pallet gardening bed for my toddler. And, man, was I right.
Turns out you don’t have to spend a fortune for rustic DIY raised beds – all you need is an upcycled pallet.
Let’s break down the steps needed to make a super cute and easy upcycled garden bed that even toddlers can help out with planting and harvesting!
So grab a cup of coffee (or tea) while I provide you with some witty and informative instructions so that by this afternoon that little helper will be showing off their nurturing green thumb skills.
What You Need for Your Pallet Gardening Bed
- 1 Pallet
- 3 Black trash bags
- 1 Small burlap bag
- 4 Bags soil
How to Make Your Pallet Gardening Bed
- Nick-off with your pallet. Purchase your other supplies. DO NOT NICK THOSE. (just FYI, I will not be pleased if you do)
- Start building your garden by removing the horizontal slats from both sides of the pallet.
- Cut pallet structure in half. Set aside
- Cut several of the removed horizontal slats to the width of the pallet structure half (if cutting at a fancy angle like I did, be sure to measure all that out–you know, measure twice, cut 4-5 times, that’s my motto).
- Affix those in place on the top of the pallet structure–you want to create space so weeds don’t come up into your planter.
- Cut remaining horizontal slats to an “even” height and affix them to the sides of the pallet. Gently. Very gently.
- Move your garden to where you need it–remember, sun AND shade, my lovelies. You need both.
- Line the base with your small burlap and trash bags.
- Fill garden with your dirt.
- Begin planting with your mini-me.
Planting and Maintenance Tips – Get your kids excited about gardening
If you want to get your little ones interested in gardening, we’ve got some tips to help you out.
First things first, choose plants that are easy to grow and care for.
Sunflowers and cherry tomatoes are always a hit.
Next, involve your kids in the planting process. Let them dig in the dirt and get their hands dirty. They’ll love it!
Also, be sure to explain the importance of watering and fertilizing to keep their plants healthy and happy.
Finally, don’t forget to celebrate their success! When their beautiful flowers bloom or their crispy veggies are ready to be harvested, make sure to share in their excitement.
FAQs About Upcycling Pallets into a Raised Garden Bed
Are you pallet-obsessed? Have you been bitten by the DIY bug and want to make a raised garden bed for your toddlers? Look no further! We’ve got answers to your burning questions about upcycling pallets.
First things first, safety is key when it comes to upcycling pallets. Always make sure to wear gloves and safety glasses and inspect the pallets for any damage.
You don’t want a nasty splinter to take you out of commission.
A great place to start looking for free or affordable used pallets is your local hardware store or building supply stores. You can also check classifieds websites and social media pages, as well as connecting with other DIYers in your area who may be willing to give away their old pallets.
Finally, Craigslist and Freecycle are two great resources that offer free pallets.
Once you’ve sourced the right pallet, you’re ready to begin building your raised garden bed!
Whether you opt for a simple planter box or an elaborate multi-level garden bed, the possibilities are endless and limited only by your imagination. So let’s get started and watch your garden grow!
When choosing pallets, go for ones that are marked with an HT stamp which means they were heat-treated rather than chemically treated. If you don’t see a stamp, that’s ok. Look for a pallet that smells like wood – not like chemicals.
No, not all pallets are safe to use. Be sure to inspect the pallet for any signs of damage or rotting before beginning your project.
You also want to avoid any that are preserved with chemicals. Again, look for ones marked with an HT stamp if you can. And only work with pallets that you believe are raw, untreated wood.
If you’re unsure, it’s always to err on the side of and choose a different one.
Yes, you can repaint or stain the pallet before using it for a garden bed. However, make sure to use paint that is safe for outdoor use and won’t leach any toxins into the soil.
Additionally, if you choose to seal the wood with a protective coating, be sure to research which type of sealant is best suited for your project.
Once you’re ready to start your project, remember that the possibilities are endless! From a simple planter box to a multi-level garden bed, your imagination is the limit. So, let’s get started and watch your garden grow!
With an upcycled pallet garden bed, you can transform your backyard into a paradise for the little ones! Not only will it inspire creativity and instill a love of gardening, but it’ll also give them something fun and educational that they can do together with the family.
Plus, you get to enjoy the ultimate satisfaction of building something from scratch with your own two hands. Who knows – maybe building this simple project could ignite a lifelong passion for crafting and creative design in your toddler.
Give it a shot – you won’t regret it!
DIY Easy Upcycled Pallet Gardening Bed
My lovelies, this is the coolest spring project. A DIY Easy Upcycled Pallet Gardening Bed for Toddlers. Yeah, a garden sized just right for littlies.
Materials
- 1 Pallet
- 3 Black trash bags
- 1 Small burlap bag
- 4 Bags soil
Tools
- Saw
- Screw Driver
- Screws
- Scissors
Instructions
- Nick-off with your pallet. Purchase your other supplies. DO NOT NICK THOSE. (just FYI, I will not be pleased if you do)
- Start building your garden by removing the horizontal slats from both sides of the pallet.
- Cut pallet structure in half. Set aside
- Cut several of the removed horizontal slats to the width of the pallet structure half (if cutting at a fancy angle like I did, be sure to measure all that out--you know, measure twice, cut 4-5 times, that's my motto).
- Affix those in place on the top of the pallet structure--you want to create space so weeds don't come up into your planter.
- Cut remaining horizontal slats to an "even" height and affix them to the sides of the pallet. Gently. Very gently.
- Move your garden to where you need it--remember, sun AND shade, my lovelies. You need both.
- Line the base with your small burlap and trash bags.
- Fill garden with your dirt.
- Begin planting with your mini-me.