Quick Summary:
A low bench for plants outdoors is a versatile and stylish way to display your greenery. It keeps plants accessible, organized, and adds a charming focal point to any patio, balcony, or garden space. Easy to build or find, it’s a practical solution for beginners seeking beautiful plant arrangements.
Why a Low Bench for Plants Outdoor is a Gardener’s Best Friend
Hey there, fellow green thumbs! Pearl Roach here from EcoPatchy, and I’m so excited to chat about a simple yet powerful gardening tool: the low bench for plants. Have you ever felt like your outdoor plants are a bit… scattered? Or maybe you’re looking for a neat way to group your favorite pots without them looking messy? You’re not alone! Many beginner gardeners find it a challenge to arrange their plants attractively and functionally. A low bench can be the perfect solution, bringing order and elegance to your outdoor oasis. It’s like giving your plants their own stylish display stage! We’ll explore why it’s so great and how you can find or create one that’s just right for your space. Get ready to transform your plant display!
The Magic of Low-Level Plant Displays
Why opt for a low bench when you could just place pots on the ground? Well, there’s a special kind of charm and practicality that comes with a low plant bench. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about nurturing your plants and enjoying them more.
Accessibility for All: Low benches bring your plants closer to eye level, making watering, pruning, and general care much easier. No more awkward bending or reaching! This is especially helpful for gardeners with mobility concerns or those who simply appreciate easy access.
Organized Charm: Instead of pots scattered randomly, a bench creates a cohesive display. It helps segment your space and gives your plant collection a deliberate, curated look, whether you have a few cherished plants or an extensive collection.
Enhanced Drainage and Airflow: Elevating pots even slightly off the ground can improve drainage, preventing waterlogged roots – a common bane of plant health. It also allows for better airflow around the base of your pots, which is crucial for healthy root systems.
Aesthetic Appeal: A well-chosen or well-built low bench adds architectural interest and a sense of deliberate design to your outdoor area. It can serve as a beautiful foundation, anchoring your plant arrangements and making them a true focal point.
Space Maximization (Especially on Patios/Balconies): In smaller spaces like balconies or patios, a low bench utilizes vertical space efficiently without overwhelming the area. It creates layers and depth, making the space feel larger and more inviting.
Choosing the Perfect Low Bench: Materials Matter
The material of your outdoor plant bench will dictate its durability, style, and maintenance needs. Here’s a look at some popular options:
Wood Benches: Natural Beauty and Customization
Wood offers a classic, natural aesthetic that blends beautifully with any garden setting.
Types of Wood:
Cedar and Redwood: Naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects. They are excellent choices for outdoor furniture but can be pricier.
Pressure-Treated Pine: More affordable and durable than untreated pine, but ensure it’s rated for ground contact if you plan to place it directly on soil. It’s important to note that some older pressure-treated wood might contain chemicals you’d prefer to avoid for growing edibles. Look for newer treatments if this is a concern.
Teak: Highly durable and weather-resistant, but also one of the most expensive options.
Pros: Beautiful, customizable, can be DIY-friendly, natural look.
Cons: Requires maintenance (sealing, staining), susceptible to rot if not properly treated or maintained, can be heavier.
Metal Benches: Modern Durability and Sleek Designs
Metal benches offer a modern, often minimalist look and are very durable.
Types of Metal:
Wrought Iron: Offers a vintage or ornate look, very sturdy but can rust if not coated properly.
Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-proof, and often comes in contemporary designs. Powder-coated aluminum is particularly resilient.
Steel: Strong and robust, but often requires a protective coating to prevent rust.
Pros: Durable, weather-resistant (especially aluminum), low maintenance, can be lightweight, modern aesthetic.
Cons: Can get hot in direct sun, might require protective pads to prevent scratching surfaces, some types can rust.
Concrete or Stone Benches: Timeless and Sturdy
These options provide unmatched durability and a sense of permanence.
Types:
Precast Concrete: Available in various shapes and finishes, can mimic stone. Relatively easy to find.
Natural Stone: Slate, granite, or sandstone benches are elegant but heavy and expensive.
Cinder Blocks & Planks: A popular, budget-friendly DIY option that offers an industrial or rustic look.
Pros: Extremely durable, weather-proof, very low maintenance, offers solid stability.
Cons: Very heavy and difficult to move, can be expensive, limited design flexibility unless DIYing, can absorb and radiate heat.
Composite or Recycled Plastic Benches: Eco-Friendly and Low Maintenance
These are excellent choices for sustainability and ease of care.
Pros: Highly resistant to rot, moisture, and insects; low maintenance; often made from recycled materials promoting sustainability; available in various colors and styles.
Cons: Can be more expensive than some wood options; may not have the natural aesthetic of wood; can sometimes look less “high-end” depending on the design.
DIY vs. Buying: Finding Your Ideal Bench
The decision to buy or build a low plant bench depends on your budget, DIY skills, and available time.
Buying a Low Plant Bench
The market offers a wide array of ready-made low benches perfect for plants. Look for options specifically designed as plant stands or garden benches that are the right height and depth for your needs.
Where to Look:
Garden centers and nurseries
Home improvement stores (e.g., Home Depot, Lowe’s)
Online retailers (Amazon, Wayfair, Etsy)
Specialty outdoor furniture stores
What to Consider When Buying:
Dimensions: Ensure it fits your space and can hold the number and size of pots you intend to display. A typical bench might be 18-24 inches high, 15-20 inches deep, and 3-5 feet long.
Weight Capacity: Can it safely support the weight of your pots filled with soil and water?
Drainage Features: Some benches have slats or perforations to help with water runoff.
Style: Does it complement your existing outdoor decor?
Material Durability: How will it hold up to your local climate?
Building a DIY Low Plant Bench
A DIY bench can be a rewarding project, saving money and allowing for perfect customization.
Option 1: Simple Cinder Block and Plank Bench
This is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly DIY options.
Materials:
Cinder blocks (typically 4-6, depending on desired length)
Wooden planks (treated lumber like cedar or pine, or durable composite decking, cut to your desired length – e.g., 3-4 feet)
Optional: Exterior paint or stain, sandpaper, landscape fabric (if placing on soil)
Tools:
Level
Measuring tape
Optional: Paintbrush, safety goggles
Steps:
1. Plan Your Layout: Decide on the desired height and length. For a bench that’s about 18 inches high, you’ll likely need two layers of cinder blocks.
2. Prepare the Base: Clear and level the area where the bench will sit. If placing on soil, consider laying down landscape fabric to prevent weeds.
3. Stack the Blocks: Place the first layer of cinder blocks at your desired spacing. Ensure they are level. For a longer bench, you might space blocks further apart.
4. Add the Second Layer (if desired): Stack a second layer of cinder blocks on top of the first, staggering them slightly for stability or placing them directly above for a more uniform look. Ensure they line up with the first layer for where your planks will rest.
5. Place the Planks: Lay your wooden planks across the cinder blocks. Ensure they are centered and overhang slightly on each end if desired. Use a level to make sure the planks are flat.
6. Secure (Optional): For added stability, especially if using longer planks or if the bench will be in a windy area, you can use L-brackets or wood screws to attach the planks to the blocks, or strap them together.
7. Decorate (Optional): If you want a more finished look, sand and paint or stain your wooden planks. Allow them to dry completely before placing plants.
Option 2: Basic Wooden Potting Bench
This project requires a bit more woodworking skill but results in a functional and attractive bench.
Materials:
Lumber (e.g., 2x4s, 2x6s for frame and top, 4x4s for legs – choose weather-resistant wood like cedar or pressure-treated pine)
Deck screws (exterior grade)
Optional: Wood sealer or stain
Tools:
Saw (hand saw, miter saw, or circular saw)
Drill with driver bits and pilot drill bit
Measuring tape
Pencil
Square
Safety glasses
Approximate Plan for a 4-foot Long Bench (Adjust as needed):
Legs: (4) 4×4 posts, cut to 18-24 inches.
Apron (Frame):
(2) 2×4 boards, cut to approximately 45 inches (for the long sides).
(2) 2×4 boards, cut to approximately 12 inches (for the short sides).
Top Slats: (e.g., 4-5) 2×6 boards, cut to 48 inches.
Steps:
1. Cut Your Lumber: Accurately cut all your pieces to the specified dimensions.
2. Assemble the Frame (Apron): Attach the short 2x4s between the ends of the long 2x4s using deck screws. Pre-drilling pilot holes will prevent the wood from splitting. This creates a rectangular frame.
3. Attach the Legs: Securely attach one 4×4 leg to each corner of the inside of the apron frame using deck screws. Ensure the legs are flush with the bottom of the apron.
4. Add Support (Optional but Recommended): For larger benches or heavier loads, you might add a central leg or a cross-brace underneath the apron.
5. Attach the Top Slats: Lay your 2×6 top slats across the apron frame. Space them slightly apart (about ½ inch) to allow for drainage and expansion. Attach each slat to the apron using deck screws.
6. Sand and Finish: Sand down any rough edges. Apply an exterior-grade wood sealer or stain to protect the wood from the elements. Let it cure fully before use.
For detailed plans and inspiration, check out resources like This Old House for general bench building techniques that can be adapted for a lower plant bench.
Best Plants for Your Low Bench
A low bench is a fantastic spot for a variety of plants, from colorful annuals to hardy herbs and even small vegetables. Consider plants in clusters for maximum impact.
For Sunny Spots:
Petunias: Produce a profusion of colorful blooms all summer.
Geraniums: Classic, cheerful flowers that are fairly drought-tolerant.
Succulents: Low-maintenance and come in a dazzling array of shapes and colors. They thrive in well-draining soil and sun.
Herbs: Basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and chives all love sun and are easy to grow in pots.
Dwarf Tomatoes or Peppers: Many varieties are compact enough for containers and will fruit beautifully on a sunny bench.
For Shady Spots:
Hostas: Known for their beautiful foliage, available in countless shades of green, blue, and variegated patterns.
Ferns: Add a lush, tropical feel with their delicate fronds.
Impatiens: Provide continuous color in shady garden areas.
Begonias: Offer both attractive foliage and vibrant blooms, perfect for shaded corners.
Coral Bells (Heuchera): Prized for their colorful, often heart-shaped leaves.
For Hanging or Trailing Plants:
Trailing Petunias (Supertunias, Wave Petunias): Cascade beautifully over the sides of the bench.
Lobelia: Delicate blue, purple, or white flowers that create a lovely waterfall effect.
Ivy Geraniums: Offer attractive foliage and clusters of flowers that trail.
Strawberries: Everbearing varieties can be planted to trail over the edge, offering a sweet reward.
Tip: Use pots that are appropriately sized for your plants and ensure they have drainage holes. Group plants with similar watering and light needs together for easier care.
Styling Your Low Plant Bench
A low bench is a blank canvas! Here are some ideas to make your plant display truly stunning:
Themed Displays:
Herb Garden: Group your favorite culinary herbs together for a fragrant and functional display.
Pollinator Paradise: Choose flowers known to attract bees and butterflies, like lavender, coneflowers, and salvias.
Succulent Sanctuary: Arrange a collection of succulents and cacti, varying textures and heights.
Color Block: Group pots of plants with similar color flowers or foliage for a bold statement.
Varying Heights and Textures: Place taller plants towards the back or middle and shorter, trailing plants at the front. Mix plant textures – fuzzy leaves next to smooth, bold foliage next to delicate blooms.
Add Decorative Elements:
Small Statues or Ornaments: A charming garden gnome, a ceramic bird, or a decorative lantern can add personality.
Watering Can and Tools: Keep a stylish watering can and a few essential hand tools on the bench for convenience and aesthetic.
Coasters or Trivets: Place pots on decorative coasters to protect the bench surface, especially if it’s wood.
String Lights: Drape fairy lights around or over the bench for a magical evening ambiance.
Consider Pot Colors and Materials: Match your pots to the bench or create a contrast. Terracotta, ceramic, metal, and composite pots all offer different visual effects.
Incorporate Verticality: Even on a low bench, you can add a small trellis behind it for climbing plants or hang small decorative items from a nearby fence or wall.
Essential Care & Maintenance for Your Plant Bench
Keeping your low plant bench and its inhabitants happy is straightforward.
Plant Care on the Bench:
1. Watering: Check soil moisture regularly, as pots can dry out faster than in-ground plants. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
2. Sunlight: Ensure your plants are getting the appropriate amount of sun for their needs. Rotate pots if one side consistently gets less light.
3. Fertilizing: Container plants benefit from regular feeding as nutrients leach out of the soil. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season, following product instructions.
4. Pruning and Deadheading: Remove spent flowers (deadheading) and trim back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
5. Pest Watch: Inspect your plants regularly for common pests like aphids or spider mites. Address any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Bench Maintenance:
Wood Benches:
Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth. For stubborn dirt, use mild soap and water.
Sealing/Staining: Reapply a protective sealer or stain annually, or as needed, to prevent weathering and rot. A good quality sealant can be found from brands like: Thompson’s WaterSeal.
Metal Benches:
Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth. For rust spots on iron or steel, use a wire brush and then apply a rust-inhibiting primer and touch-up paint.
Check Coatings: Ensure protective coatings are intact.
Concrete/Stone Benches:
Cleaning: Scrub with water and a stiff brush. For stubborn stains, a diluted bleach solution can be used, but rinse thoroughly afterward.
Check for cracks and seal if necessary.
Composite/Plastic Benches:
Cleaning: Most can be cleaned with soap and water. Power washing on a low setting can be effective for tougher grime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the ideal height for a low plant bench?
A1: For a low plant bench, a height of 18 to 24 inches is generally ideal. This height makes it easy to access plants for watering and care without excessive bending, while still keeping them low enough to be grounded and stable.
Q2: How deep should a low plant bench be?
A2: A bench depth of 12 to 20 inches is usually sufficient. This allows ample space to comfortably fit standard-sized pots and arrange them without overcrowding.
Q3: Can I leave my wooden plant bench outside all year?
A3: Yes, but it’s crucial that the wood is weather-resistant (like cedar, redwood, or teak) or has been properly treated and sealed for outdoor use. Regular maintenance, such as reapplying sealant annually, will significantly extend its lifespan in harsh weather conditions.
Q4: Will metal benches get too hot in the sun for plants?
A4: Metal can get hot, but typically the pots themselves and the soil within them provide enough insulation. Avoid placing particularly sensitive plants directly on a metal surface that bakes in full sun all day, or use pot feet to allow airflow underneath. Lighter-colored metals also absorb less heat than darker ones.
Q5: How do I prevent my bench from damaging my patio or deck?
A5: For wooden or metal benches, consider using rubber or felt pads under the legs to prevent scratches. For heavier concrete or stone benches, ensure the surface below is stable and consider rubber feet. If the bench is directly on soil, landscape fabric underneath can prevent the bench from sinking and keep things tidy.
Q6: What is the easiest DIY low plant bench to make?
A6: The cinder block and wooden plank bench is arguably the easiest DIY option. It requires no special tools or skills – just stacking blocks and laying planks. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and easily customizable.
Q7: Can I grow herbs and vegetables on a low plant bench?
A7: Absolutely! Low benches are perfect for herbs like basil, mint, and thyme, and compact vegetable varieties like bush beans, dwarf tomatoes, and peppers. Ensure the pots have good drainage and that the plants receive adequate sunlight and water.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Outdoor Space with Ease
Adding a low bench for plants to your outdoor area is a simple yet incredibly effective way to enhance both the beauty and functionality of your garden, patio, or balcony. It’s an accessible solution for beginners, offering a structured way to display your green friends, make plant care a breeze, and boost your outdoor aesthetic. Whether you choose to buy a ready-made bench that perfectly suits your style or embark on a rewarding DIY project, the benefits are clear: organized, accessible, and beautifully arranged plants.
From selecting the right durable material to styling your plant arrangements, we’ve covered the essentials to help you create a stunning outdoor display. Remember, gardening is all about growth and enjoyment, and a low plant bench is a fantastic tool to support both. So, go ahead, pick out those perfect pots, choose your favorite plants, and let your creativity bloom on your new feature! Happy gardening!
