How to create a vertical garden using reclaimed pallets and succulents for small patios
Setup & Materials
By Alex • November 15, 2025 • DIY Guide
Creating a vertical garden using reclaimed pallets and succulents is a fantastic way to make the most of limited space while adding charm and beauty to your small patio. This project not only showcases your creativity but also promotes sustainability by recycling materials that might otherwise end up in a landfill. Vertical gardens are ideal for small outdoor areas, as they allow you to increase your green space without occupying precious floor real estate. Plus, succulents are a great choice for beginners because they require minimal care and are well-suited for container gardening.
Imagine stepping out onto your patio and being greeted by a lush tapestry of vibrant succulents showcasing various colors, textures, and shapes. A vertical garden not only elevates the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also provides benefits beyond beauty. Plants naturally purify the air, boost mood, and contribute positively to your overall well-being. Moreover, gardening can be therapeutic, offering you a rewarding hobby that encourages mindfulness and relaxation.
For those new to gardening or DIY projects, this guide provides a clear and easy-to-follow approach to creating your own vertical garden. No prior experience is necessary, but a willingness to learn and engage is all that is required. With just a few tools and materials, you can transform reclaimed pallets into a stunning vertical garden that breathes life into your patio. Let’s dive into the essential tools, materials, and step-by-step instructions to get you started on this exciting project!
Tools Needed
Saw: A hand saw or a circular saw will make it easier to cut your wood pallets to the desired sizes. Make sure to securely support the pallets when cutting.
Final Result
Hammer: You’ll need a hammer for driving nails into the pallet and securing it together.
Nails: Choose galvanized or weather-resistant nails to ensure your vertical garden withstands outdoor conditions.
Drill: A drill will help create drainage holes and attach hooks for mounting your vertical garden on the wall or fence.
Stapler (or staple gun): This tool is useful for attaching landscape fabric to the back of the pallet to hold the soil and plants.
Gloves: Protect your hands from splinters when handling reclaimed pallets, as they can be rough and may have sharp edges.
Level: To ensure your vertical garden hangs straight, a level will help you check your work as you install it.
Paintbrush (optional): If you decide to paint or stain your pallet for aesthetics, a paintbrush is essential for an even application.
Materials
Reclaimed wood pallets: 1-2 pallets, depending on the height and width desired for your garden.
Landscape fabric: 1-2 yards, to prevent soil from falling through the slats.
Succulents: 10-15 plants, depending on the size of your pallets and how densely you want to plant them.
Nails: 1 box (usually 50-100), for securing the pallets and fabric.
Hanging brackets or hooks: 2-4, according to your setup, for mounting the vertical garden.
Wood stain or paint: (optional) 1 quart, to finish or protect the pallets.
Watering can or spray bottle: For watering your succulents.
Sandpaper: 1 piece, to smooth rough edges on the pallets.
Plastic sheeting or trash bag: 1, as a barrier to protect your patio or floor during the assembly process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Pallet
What: Choose suitable reclaimed wood pallets for your vertical garden.
How: Look for pallets that are in good condition without significant cracks, rot, or loose boards. Avoid pallets that have been treated with toxic chemicals (marked with “MB”). Once selected, clean each pallet thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. If needed, use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or protruding nails that could cause injury.
Tips: Check if the pallets stack easily, and if they’re free of mold or pests. Staining or painting the pallet not only enhances its look but also provides extra protection against moisture.
Safety: Wear gloves during handling and sanding to prevent splinters or cuts.
Step 2: Cutting the Pallet
What: Cut the pallet to the desired height.
How: Using a saw, measure and mark the cuts based on how tall you want your vertical garden. A typical height is between 3 to 5 feet. Make the cuts with attention and patience, ensuring they’re straight to maintain a professional look.
Tips: If you want a multi-level planter, consider leaving some sections of the pallet intact for a strong base while using the visible top sections for planting.
Safety: Use appropriate safety gear when cutting wood, particularly goggles to protect your eyes from splinters.
Step 3: Creating Drainage Holes
What: Drill drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
How: Use a drill to create drainage holes in the base of the pallet’s slats where you will be placing soil. This step is crucial as succulents do not thrive in soggy conditions. Ideally, each section should have 3-4 holes spaced evenly apart.
Tips: Keep the amount of soil in each segment moderate to reduce weight and improve drainage.
Safety: Ensure you have a stable work surface during drilling, and always wear safety glasses.
Step 4: Attaching Landscape Fabric
What: Line the back and sides with landscape fabric.
How: Cut a piece of landscape fabric that will cover the entire back and sides of the pallet. Securely attach it with a staple gun or nails, ensuring that fabric extends slightly over the top to aid in soil retention.
Tips: Folding the edges of the fabric over the top helps keep soil contained and reduces the risk of it spilling out.
Safety: Be cautious when handling the staple gun, as the staples can be sharp.
Step 5: Securing the Pallet
What: Prepare the pallet for mounting.
How: If desired, attach hanging brackets or hooks to the back of the pallet. Make sure they are securely fastened to carry the weight of the entire structure filled with soil and plants. If you plan to lean it against a wall, it may not be necessary to attach hooks.
Tips: If using a wall-mounted approach, ensure the mounting hardware is rated for the weight of the garden.
Safety: When drilling into a wall, be mindful of electrical wiring and plumbing.
Step 6: Filling with Soil
What: Fill the sections with potting soil.
How: Wearing gloves, fill each section of the pallet with potting soil. Leave enough space at the top to allow for planting the succulents. The soil should be compacted but not overly dense to ensure aeration.
Tips: Choose a soil mix specially formulated for succulents, which typically contains sand and grit for better drainage.
Safety: Avoid inhaling dust from the soil; consider wearing a mask if needed.
Step 7: Planting the Succulents
What: Select and plant your succulents.
How: Carefully remove the succulents from their containers, loosening the roots minimally. Place a succulent in each section of the pallet and cover the roots with soil. Make sure to consider the amount of light your chosen succulents will need and place the more light-demanding species towards the top.
Tips: Mix different types of succulents for a visually engaging display. Consider varying colors, textures, and sizes for an attractive arrangement.
Safety: Be careful as some succulents have sharp edges that may prick your skin.
Step 8: Watering and Maintenance
What: Water your vertical garden and establish a care routine.
How: Water the plants lightly after planting to settle the soil. Allow the soil to dry out between watering, as succulents do not require frequent hydration. Position your vertical garden in a location with adequate sunlight (6-8 hours a day is ideal).
Tips: Monitor the moisture level regularly, as too much water can lead to rot. You can also mist the plants but avoid soaking them.
Safety: Use caution when using gardening tools around the pallet to avoid injury.
Troubleshooting
Creating a vertical garden can be rewarding, but challenges may arise. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Excessive Moisture: If you notice that your succulents’ leaves are yellowing or rotting, it may be due to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before re-watering.
Poor Plant Growth: If your succulents are not thriving, check if they are receiving enough sunlight. Move them to a brighter spot, as most succulents prefer full sun exposure.
Soil Leakage: If soil is spilling out of your pallet, ensure the landscape fabric is properly secured around the edges. You may need to add more fabric or reattach it more tightly.
Pest Infestation: Check for signs of pests, such as tiny webs or discoloring leaves. If you spot these, remove the affected areas and treat the plants with insecticidal soap to prevent further damage.
Inconsistent Watering: Establish a watering schedule or use a moisture meter for easy monitoring. Remember, less frequent watering is better for succulents than over-watering.
Conclusion
Creating a vertical garden using reclaimed pallets and succulents makes for an eye-catching addition to any small patio, while promoting sustainability and creativity. This simple guide empowers you to transform recycled materials into a beautiful living display. The benefits extend beyond visual appeal, enriching your outdoor space, improving air quality, and offering a fulfilling hobby.
Feel free to explore variations by incorporating other plants, such as herbs or small flowers, to create a unique and functional garden. To maintain your vertical garden, keep a regular check on plant health, adjust watering habits, and replant any succulents that may outgrow their sections.
