Creating A Beautiful Home

Make Some Cement Planters

by Jamie Carpenter

Ready-mix cement is used for the addition of patios, walkways, and heavy-duty counters and tabletops. It can also be used to create striking garden decor. A ready mix cement product that does not contain large aggregate pieces will aid in creating planters that contain a smooth and durable surface.

The Materials

Be wary of the ready-mix formula that you purchase. There are products that contain bits of gravel and stone and these cement mixtures are designed to create textured surfaces. A cement product that lacks texture may be classified as a finishing product that can be used to create counters or tabletops.

Finishing cement will need to be prepared in the same manner as one that contains large chunks and can be purchased through a supplier that sells construction or remodeling materials.

One bag of the mix can be used to create a couple of moderate-sized planters. If you prefer to use a couple of large planters to showcase some of your favorite plant varieties, purchase a few bags of the mix. The mix can be heavy, especially after water is added to it.

If you choose to make heavy planters, forms can be set up on a rolling cart. The use of a cart will allow you to create the planters and transport them to the portions of your yard where plants will be displayed. Plastic forms, a concrete drill and drill bit, cooking oil, and a mixing bucket and stirrer are the materials you need to make each planter.

The Forms

Choose square, circle, rectangle, or oval-shaped forms. Jugs that have the tops cut off of them or plastic buckets can be used. Choose two forms that are different sizes. This will allow you to place the smaller form inside of the larger one, resulting in an indentation in each planter.

Prepare the ready mix cement, by adding water to the dry cement and stirring the water into the cement blend. Use cooking oil to grease the mold's interior sides and bottom. Pour the cement directly into the large mold. Place the smaller mold into the larger one and push the smaller mold down firmly.

Add rocks to the smaller mold to hold it in place. After the cement dries, cut the plastic and peel it away from the cement. If the planter isn't too heavy, you can tip the mold and the planter will slide out. Use a drill and a drill bit to create a drainage hole in the bottom of the planter. Replant your favorite plant varieties and display them near the edges of your garden or along the front of your home.

Contact a company like P & L  Concrete Products Inc & Garden Center to learn more.

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