Tanalised Decking Timber Raised Bed Frame Planter

Wooden planters are a popular choice for UK gardens, patios, and decking areas. Below you’ll find clear answers to common questions about wooden planters, including durability, drainage, liners, and how much soil you’ll need.

This guide is written for UK gardeners and outdoor conditions.

How long do wooden planters last in the UK climate?
In the UK, the lifespan of a wooden planter depends on the timber and its treatment. Pressure-treated wooden planters are designed for outdoor use and, with normal care, can last for many years in typical British weather conditions.

Using good drainage and avoiding constant water build-up around the base can help extend the life of a planter.

Are pressure-treated wooden planters safe in UK gardens?
Yes. Pressure-treated timber used for garden planters in the UK is treated to help protect against rot, decay, and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor use.

If you plan to grow edible plants, many gardeners choose to use a liner as an extra precaution, although it is not essential.

Do wooden planters need drainage holes in wet weather?
Yes. Drainage is especially important in the UK due to regular rainfall. Wooden planters should allow excess water to escape to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

Most well-built wooden planters are designed with drainage in mind. Placing planters on feet or slightly raising them off patios or decking can also help improve drainage.

Do I need a liner for a wooden planter?
A liner is not required, but it can be useful. Liners help reduce direct contact between wet soil and timber, potentially extending the life of the planter.

If you use a liner, it’s important to ensure the drainage holes remain clear so water can escape freely.

Can wooden planters be painted or stained in the UK?
Yes. Wooden planters can be painted or stained to suit your garden or outdoor space. If painting or staining, wait until the timber is dry and use a product designed for exterior wood.

Painting or staining is optional and mainly affects appearance rather than durability.

How much compost or soil do I need for a wooden planter?
The amount of compost or soil required depends on the planter's internal dimensions. To calculate the volume, multiply the internal length, width, and depth, then convert the result into litres.

Many UK gardeners use a mix of compost and soil suitable for their chosen plants. You can use our soil calculator to estimate how many litres or 40L compost bags you’ll need.

What can I grow in a wooden planter in the UK?
Wooden planters are suitable for a wide range of plants commonly grown in the UK, including flowers, herbs, shrubs, and small vegetable plants.

When choosing plants, consider the depth of the planter and the amount of sunlight the area receives. Deeper planters are better for plants with larger root systems.

Are wooden planters suitable for decking and patios?
Yes. Wooden planters are well-suited to decking, patios, and paved areas. They are often used to frame seating areas, entrances, and garden boundaries.

To protect decking and improve airflow, it’s a good idea to raise planters slightly using feet or supports.

How do I look after a wooden planter outdoors?
Wooden planters require minimal maintenance. Keeping drainage clear and removing excess debris will help keep plants healthy.

Over time, timber may naturally weather and change colour due to exposure to the elements. This is normal and does not affect the structural integrity of pressure-treated planters.

Choosing the right wooden planter for your garden
When choosing a wooden planter, consider:

1. The size and depth needed for your plants
2. Whether it will be used on soil, decking, or paving
3. The shape that suits your space (square, rectangular, or raised)
Well-built wooden planters provide a practical, long-lasting planting solution for UK gardens year-round.

All of our products are handmade in the UK using carefully selected materials, chosen for durability and suitability for their intended use.

All dimensions are approximate and measured externally.

As each item is handmade, minor variations in size and finish may occur.
This does not affect the product's strength or intended use.

Materials

• Crafted from quality timber or materials appropriate to the product type
  
• Designed for strength, stability, and everyday use
  
• Finished with care to ensure a clean, consistent appearance
  

(Planters are built using timber suited for outdoor use. Non-planter items use untreated materials where appropriate.)

Sizing

• Dimensions are listed on each product page
  
• Measurements are approximate due to the handmade nature of our products
  
• If you need a custom size or have specific requirements, bespoke options are available
  

Planters are designed with drainage and outdoor performance in mind.

If you're unsure which size or product is right for your space, feel free to get in touch before ordering.

Our wooden planters are designed for outdoor use and built using timber suited to the UK climate.

To get the best lifespan from your planter:

• We recommend a liner or breathable membrane to protect the internal timber
• Ensure drainage holes remain clear to prevent water build-up
• Avoid placing the planter directly onto constantly wet ground
• Over time, the timber will naturally weather and change colour — this is normal and part of its character
  

With basic care, your planter will provide many seasons of use.
If you're unsure whether a planter is suitable for your space, just get in touch, and we’ll be happy to advise.

Ongoing Care

Wood is a natural material. For those who wish to maintain the original appearance, a suitable wood treatment or oil can be applied periodically. This is optional and not required for structural performance.

All of our planters are made to order.

Once your order is placed, we begin preparing your planter, tailored to you. When it's ready to leave us, you'll receive a dispatch confirmation email with tracking details so you can follow its journey.

Delivery times can vary slightly depending on order volume and location, but we’ll always keep you informed along the way. Typically, it's 6-8 days.

If you have any questions about delivery before ordering, feel free to get in touch.