The Weekender: Urban Gardening Part 1 - DIY Raised Patio Garden Planters

Over the past year, my inner Martha Stewart has been clawing its way out. I'm not sure what's caused this sudden domestication, but lately I've been all about making things from scratch. From fresh baked bread to the three layer, triple chocolate cake with peanut butter chocolate chip cheesecake and peanut butter buttercream frosting cake I made for my husband's birthday, I've been baking and cooking like crazy!

Which is what led me to gardening. I started with herbs planted in vintage canisters and milk glass bowls. I spent an obsessive amount of time staring at my gorgeous herbs before deciding it was time to go bigger and start a veggie garden.

My little indoor herb garden.

The idea didn't take much planning. If you google raised garden beds, you'll see that they're pretty easy to make; it's a box on legs. Our landlords had planned to build their own raised beds the year before but never got around to it so they still had the wood, plus a few scraps from other projects. Using their wood as a starting point, we decided to keep our design pretty simple and build 3 4' x 2' tables. The first two tables were 33" high and 11" deep with a shelf on the bottom to hold gardening supplies. The last table was 16.5" deep to hold veggies with longer roots and only 24" high, which makes it the perfect height for growing taller things like tomatoes and cucumbers.

After coming up with our plan and making a list of needed materials, it was time to make the hardest decision ever:

TREATED OR NOT?- Seriously, there are HUGE debates about this online. Some people fear that the chemicals in treated wood will contaminate their garden. The wood that my landlord had was treated so we had no choice but to work with it. To be safe, I googled and found that since 2003, arsenic is no longer used to treat wood. Nowadays, treated wood contains alkaline copper quat (ACQ) and copper azole (CA-B) which work to protect the wood from soil rot and ward off insects. If you're worried about the copper getting in your soil, studies show that only a negligible amount of copper actually leaches into the soil, so even if ingested, you'd have to eat a LOT of veggies in a short period of time for it to amount to much.

That said, if you have the money for it and want a certified organic garden, go with cedar or for a cheaper option, try fir. The treated wood we had from our landlord wasn't enough for all 3 beds and when we went to to buy more, all they had was cedar. To make our planters look uniform, we used the cedar on the fronts of the planters and saved the treated wood, some of which had warped from being stored in the garage, for the backs.

My first time at Menard's lumber warehouse. I think THIS Home Depot girl may have to switch teams!

There are other things to take into consideration such as soil choice and planting method. I'll go over that stuff next week. As far as style, do a google image search and you'll come across tons of design ideas. We wanted easy and inexpensive so our design is pretty basic but you could go crazy with built-in benches, powder-coated metal legs, and built-in water systems. Make them long and narrow to fit condo patios or go big in a suburban backyard. The possibilities are endless!

RAISED GARDEN TABLE

LAZINESS SCALE:

TIME: 1 day

COST: $50-$100 per table depending on type of wood

SUPPLIES:

• (1-2) 4"x4"s cut to desired table height for use as legs (ours are 33" and 24")
• (2) 8ft 1"x6" boards cut into (4) 4ft sections
• (1) 8ft 1"x6" board cut into (4) 2ft sections
• (2) 8ft 1"x4" boards cut into 2ft sections (add an extra 1"x4" if you want to build a shelf, optional)
• (1) 8ft 2"x2" cut into (2) 4ft sections (for the shelf, optional)
• bolts or decking screws (we used screws)
• vinyl hardware cloth
• landscaping cloth, window screen mesh, or cardboard
  **calculations based on one 2'x4' table that's 11"deep

BUILD - This is super easy. Screw (or bolt) the 1x6s to your legs. When it's all together, turn the table upside down and lay your 1x4s across the bottom to serve as the supports for the soil. If you plan to add a shelf, attach your supports to the legs at the desired height, then screw the extra 1x4 boards on top. (Side note, you don't have to use 2x2s for the shelf supports. We did because that's what we had on hand but you could use any size boards cut to size.)

STAIN - Staining isn't necessary. My landlord was super worried about the cedar warping and had me add the stain, which is also a waterproofer, to help it last longer. We used Cabot Solid Color Acrylic Siding Stain. This was my first time using a solid color stain and I have to say, I LOVED it! Unlike regular wood stain which is thin and watery, it goes on thick like paint which came in handy for doing designs. It only took one coat, 2 in a few spots, to finish the job. 

MESH - Cut the hardware cloth and your landscape cloth/screen/cardboard to fit your table adding a little bit extra to go up the sides. Place the hardware cloth inside the table resting on the slats and use a staple gun to staple it to the frame. Add the fabric/cardboard and do the same.

Raised planters have a problem retaining water since there's no ground under them to keep the moisture in. For this reason, landscaper's cloth or cardboard are good liners since they both hold moisture. If you use cardboard, just be aware that eventually it will decompose which is good for the soil since it will leave behind lots of beneficial nutrients, but bad for you since you'll have nothing keeping your soil inside. We were going to use cardboard to line the bottom of the planters but we didn't have enough so we used our landlord's landscape cloth. The weave of the cloth is so tight that it doesn't drain when you water your plants, and instead, the water slowly evaporates through the bottom of the cloth which is good. We've been watering every 1-2 days so far no problems!

FILL & PLANT - Now you're ready to fill your planters! Move the planters to your desired location (they're heavy once soil is inside) and add your soil, plants, and seeds. I'll post about our soil and gardening choices next week. Till then, happy building!

Ikea Hack of the Year

This is my favorite Ikea Hack. It's such a smart idea and yet I don't think I ever would have thought of it. Alex took an old, torn Emmabo rocking chair and turned it into a wood-slatted outdoor chair. Genius!

If you've owned the Emmabo before, you know that the fabric wears easily. Now, instead of tossing it out, you can turn it into a great relaxing chair for the patio.

Ikea no longer makes the Emmabo chair, so if you find one on craigslist for cheap, make sure to snatch it up. You don't want to miss out on this awesome hack! Spice it up by adding a little color or using metal fittings. Let your imagination run wild!

For instructions on creating your own Emmabo deck chair, check out Alex's blog.

{images via Ikea Hacker}

Let There be Fire!

I know it's Apartment Wanted time, but this deal is too good to hold on to. If you're looking for a firepit for your yard but don't want to pay big money, check out your local drug store.

A friend told us that Walgreens sells 24" firepits for $30. We didn't believe them until we checked it out for ourselves yesterday. Sure enough, Walgreens DOES sell firepits. To make the deal even sweeter, they're currently on sale for $15!!! Seeing as how most pits are $60+, I think $15 is a great deal! It's also small change that you won't mind losing if you move to a new apartment where you don't have space to use your pit.

We were so excited about our purchase that we used our firepit last night. It's great for parties, roasting marshmallows, or even grilling. We just sat there mesmerized by the fire.

I couldn't find the pit on the Walgreen's website but it looks just like this one from Target ($80). The only differences are it doesn't fold or come with the extra ice bucket...features that we don't really need.

Before buying a firepit, check with your landlord to make sure it's allowed. If they're worried about the risk of fire, you can always compromise and use gel fuel, which comes in cans and makes smaller flames. Gel fuel's a lot more expensive than fire wood so take that into consideration. 12 cans of fuel cost $37 (Amazon.com) versus $6 for a bundle of wood. If possible, use your pit on a stone patio to lower the fire risk and keep it a good distance from buildings.

Remember, only YOU can prevent forest fires!

Stay tuned for an Apartment Wanted post tomorrow.

Make Your Own Grand Entrance

I've been holding on to this post since November. I didn't see how a website that sold front doors would be relevant to you renters. Of course, I'd never even looked past the homepage. I finally decided to browse around the Crestview Doors website last night to see what they offer. Good thing I did! Whether you're a renter or an owner, Crestview has something for you'll love.


Crestview specializes in mid-century style doors and wall panels. Instead of buying the whole door, you buy a DIY Doorlite Kit. There's a video on their website that shows just how easy it is to create you own modern entryway. First layout the window lights on your door in the position you'd like them in and trace the outline. Next, use a jigsaw to cut out the shapes, then insert the window frame, caulk, fill, stain/paint and you're done!


If you're a renter and plan on living in your place for at least a couple of years, consider purchasing an extra door so your landlord doesn't kill you. You can easily put the original door back when it's time to move out. Doorlite kits start at $79 so it's affordable enough for everyone. I checked HomeDepot.com and was able to find a basic entry door for $116 which means you'll be able to completely transform the look of your house for under $200. Now that's what I call a deal!


If you're not sure what your house will look like with a certain window, check out Crestview's Door-o-vision to get a sneak peak. You can upload a pic of the front of your house or use one of Crestview's pictures. Then you can have fun playing around with all the different door options. While you're there, take a look at their wall panels (good for adding a hint of mod) and browse their Flickr gallery for pics customers sent in of their finished projects. The picture below is my absolute favorite!

{images via Crestview Doors}

Obleeek!!!

Obleek Objects is bringing concrete to the masses with their modern planters, birdbaths, and tables. Made of concrete and glass, every design is a study in sleek design that's perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Planters start at $45 for the Tiny Obleeek - a perfect gift for that special someone on your Christmas list.

Bye Bye Mosquitos!

If you haven't read Domino magazine, head to the nearest newsstand and pickup a copy. Out of the gazillion design magazines I subscribe to, Domino is my favorite when it comes to good, practical, AFFORDABLE advice. They also have great blogs on their website, dominomag.com.

One of my favorite ideas in this month's issue came from style director Dara Caponigro who used DIY retractable netting to screen off her porch. It's a great solution for renters who want to keep out the bugs and add a dose of style.

To snag Dara's curtains go to mosquitocurtains.com. When there you can choose from two options...a metal track or velcro. According to the Mosquito Curtians website, the netting can run you upwards of $400 if you choose the metal track (pictured above). My opinion, hit the fabric store, grab some netting, install curtain tracks from Ikea, and you can do your whole porch on the cheap.

While your checking out the Domino website, make sure to visit the 50 Paint Colors Gallery to see real rooms splashed with bright inspiration.

Summer Cooking

With Memorial Day comes the start of everything summer. That means outdoor parties and backyard barbeques. In my case, it means front porch barbeques.

This past Friday was Jerome's birthday. In celebration, we had a few friends over to celebrate. But before the fun could begin, I had a lot of work to do to get the porch in party shape.

1. Lighting
Most times, adding festive string lights and tiki torchces is the easy way to transform an outdoor space for a party. If you only have a porch, like me, torches aren't an option. Neither are string lights if you don't have electricity on the porch. My alternitive, solar powered outdoor lights. Normally, you'd stick these around the edge of your lawn or walkway. Instead, I filled planter boxes with soil and rocks to hold the lights. Now for $40 I have eight, earth-friendly lights to keep the party going long into the night.


2. The Grill
Many cities have rules about the use of gas and charcoal grills on porches or rental spaces. One way around it, buy electric. My old roommates had the George Forman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill ($70, Lowes). Like the original Forman countertop cooker, this grill is great at cooking and is easy to clean. If you're willing to spend a little more, check out the Perfect Flame Dual Purpose Electric Grill ($200, Lowes). With extra cooking space and fold-down prep tables, this is a great grill for anyone planning to host a few BBQs this summer.




3. The Silverware
If you're looking to impress without making a mess, try First Impressions Plastic Silverware. It's just like regular, stainless steel silverware until you pick it up and realize how lightweight it is. Jerome's family used it for an event. I was truly convinced it was the real thing. His mom ended up giving me a pack...you know you're in when your future mother-in-law gives you the good silver!

If you're looking for a green (in color and eco-friendliness) option, try Diamond's Renew Dinnerware made of 100% recycled plastic. Even the box is made of recycled materials. The silverware features a unique cut-out design on the handle that uses 10% less plastic than normal disposable flatware. I don't know about you, but I'm all over any green idea that also allows me to party in style!

*Renter's Tip: Nowadays you can get everything from champagne glasses to dishes in paper or plastic for easy disposal. Many options look like their real counterpart. If you don't find what you're looking for at your local grocer, check online, at the wine store, or at a party supply store.

4. Flooring
A nice way to spruce up any porch party? Add a rug! Not only will you give the deck that comfy, warm feel, but you'll also provide a nice place for guests to hang out flip-flop free! I used a rug to cover up some paint marks and give the porch some style. Make sure to keep the rug away from the grill and any open flames! Pottery Barn's Palm Leaf rug ($99-399) is my favorite...gotta love a little tropical flair!

6. Furniture
Outdoor furniture is a must for any summer soiree. My tip, go for something out of the ordinary. Can't afford to get anything special? Don't underestimate the power of paint. Krylon makes a paint just for plastics that will transform your ugly white plastic lawn chairs into colorful pieces. If you have wood or metal furniture, make sure to use a paint that keeps the rust out and protects wood. If you're still looking for the perfect chair, don't forget second-hand options. Craigslist is full of people practically begging you to take their patio sets off their hands. They're usually in great condition with little work needing to be done. You can find anything from cool picnic tables to cool retro chairs. We were able to get our metal cabinet for free on craigslist. With a couple coats of spray paint, it's now the perfect place to store our grill accessories.

5. The Little Things
Now that you've got everything else you need for a party, it's time to add the important thing: decorations! Lanterns, candles, sconses, and outdoor fireplaces are great options. Hanging plants are great for summer, though be careful to read the care directions before buying anything. I bought a gorgeous Fuscia plant and didn't realize till I got it home how difficult it is to take care of. For color mix in a few bowls of lemons or limes or put out frozen berries. If you're looking for some real fun, add a few glowsticks to the ice chests for a neat glow that looks great bouncing off the ice.