Better Homes and Gardens (Australia)
Build a pyramid planter
A cross between a pagoda and pyramid, this raised planter has several levels of growing space, so you can have a larger garden bed in a compact space. Choose the site, making sure it gets enough sun for your chosen plants, then cut timbers and slot together, no screws needed!
Gather your supplies
• 5 lengths wet-sawn treated pine 150 x 25mm x 4.8m
• Garden soil mix
• Plants (here lilium, liriope, plectranthus, loropetalum and native violet)
You’ll also need
Tape measure; combination square; pencil or marking pen; circular saw; jigsaw; rubber mallet; spirit level; spade
Here’s how
STEPS 1 Make a template with shape of ends. On a short length, use circular saw to cut end at a 60° angle, then cut off corner on longest edge so it is square from the edge. Mark a 25mm wide and 40mm deep notch along bottom edge 105mm from end and cut out with jigsaw.
STEP 2 Use template to cut four base pieces 1500mm long. Mark notches but do not cut them.
STEP 3 To lock base pieces together, create a halved joint. Using position of notch from template, mark and cut notches halfway across timber. Do a pair of base pieces with notches going from the bottom edge, and a pair with notches coming from the top edge.
STEP 4 Sit base pieces in position and interlock the notches in the corners. Use a rubber mallet to knock them together if the join is tight. Use a spirit level to make base level, excavating slightly if required.
STEP 5 Use template to mark out and cut 2 more lengths of timber so notches in bottom edge will sit over base pieces. Position these on base pieces about 200mm from corners.
STEP 6 Continue marking and cutting timber to build up your pyramid. Position each layer to create a steady rise that is pleasing to the eye.
STEP 7 To lock the top of the pyramid together, cut notches halfway through each piece to create another halving joint as you did to build the base pieces. Cut the ends of the interlocking pieces square so they overhang the outside of the final pieces by 25mm.
STEP 8 Fill pyramid planter with garden soil mix, plant up each level and water in well.