To make DIY concrete planters, you mix cement with water, pour it into a mold with a smaller container nested inside to hollow out the middle, then let it cure and pop it out. That's the entire secret — the rest is just choosing a mold and having a little patience.
Concrete gets a reputation for being difficult, so most people never try. A shame, because a single bag of mix makes several designer-looking pots for the price of one cheap plastic one, and they shrug off frost that would crack ceramic.
This video walks through the whole thing alongside wood and plant ideas for every garden. It's in German, but the process is all visual — you'll follow the pour just by watching the hands.
Concrete, wood & plants
Watch the concrete planters being cast
How do you make a concrete planter step by step?
You pick two containers — one slightly smaller than the other — grease them so the concrete releases cleanly, mix the cement to a thick milkshake consistency, and pour it into the gap between them. Weigh down the inner mold, tap out the air bubbles, and leave it to cure for a day or two. Then unmold, and you've got a solid, modern planter. The video shows each of these steps at the bench so you can match the timing and texture.
What do you need to cast concrete pots?
A short, cheap list — and you probably have half of it already. The molds can be anything from old tubs to milk cartons, which keeps the whole project close to free.
Concrete planter kit
- Cement or ready-mix concrete (a fine mix gives smoother pots)
- Two nesting containers to use as molds
- Cooking oil or spray to grease the molds
- A bucket and stick for mixing, plus water
- Gloves and a dust mask for safe handling
What is the right concrete mix for planters?
Aim for a smooth, pourable mix about the thickness of a milkshake — wet enough to fill every corner, thick enough not to run out of the mold. A finer cement mix gives crisper edges and a smoother surface, while a coarser concrete looks more rustic. Always add water gradually; you can add more, but you can't take it out. The video shows the ideal consistency so you have a target to match.
How do you add drainage and finish the pot?
Push a dowel or bolt through the wet concrete at the base to leave a drainage hole, or drill one once it's cured. After unmolding, sand any sharp edges, and seal the pot if you want to protect it further. Then pair it with wood accents or plants like the video does — concrete's grey backdrop makes greenery and warm timber really pop. For more no-cost pieces to sit alongside it, see the homemade garden decorations guide.
Frequently asked questions about DIY concrete planters
How long does concrete take to cure?
Most planters can be unmolded after 24 to 48 hours, but full strength takes a few more days. Let larger pots cure longer before planting.
Do concrete planters crack in winter?
Properly cured concrete is frost-resistant and handles winter far better than ceramic. Adding a drainage hole prevents trapped water from freezing and cracking the pot.
What can I use as a mold?
Almost any two nesting containers work — plastic tubs, buckets, milk cartons or bowls. Grease them first so the concrete releases without sticking.
Is concrete safe for plants?
Yes. Once cured and rinsed, concrete is a stable, plant-friendly material. Rinsing the finished pot helps neutralize any surface alkalinity before planting.
