Making a DIY light pole planter is a unique way to add greenery and style to your outdoor space. With just a few simple materials, you can create a charming planter that wraps around a light pole to soften the look and bring nature into urban areas.
Introduction
A light pole planter is exactly what it sounds like – a planter that attaches to and wraps around a light pole. Light poles provide the perfect place to add plants in areas without much ground space, like city sidewalks, parking lots, or along pathways. Wrapping a planter around a light pole creates vertical greenery and makes the pole less obtrusive and more charming.
DIY light pole planters are simple to make and a great beginner DIY project. The basic supplies needed are easily obtained:
- A flexible planter or planting pots
- Soil and plants
- Zip ties, metal chicken wire, or other material to attach the planter
Customizing your own DIY light pole planter allows you to choose plants that bring the look you desire, whether it’s colorful flowers, trailing greenery, or a mix. When installed properly, light pole planters can last for years with regular plant care and maintenance.
Choosing a Planter
The foundation of your DIY light pole planter is choosing the right planter. Look for long, flexible planters that can fully wrap around the pole. Options include:
Coir Planter
Coir planters made from coconut fiber work well. They come in long cylinders and contour to the light pole shape. Look for coir planters at least 24 inches long.
Fabric Planter
Planters made from polyester, nylon, or other fabrics are flexible. Choose a height at least 16 inches tall and the length to fit the circumference of your light pole.
Metal Planters
Connecting individual metal or plastic planting pots together can form a DIY light pole planter. Use at least 3 pots in a row.
Hanging Baskets
You can make a vertical planter by securely stacking hanging baskets on top of each other. Use at least 3 baskets.
No matter the material, make sure to select a sturdy planter that will hold up outdoors. Drainage holes at the bottom are also key for a healthy light pole planter.
Choosing Plants
When selecting plants, opt for varieties that will thrive in the conditions of your light pole planter. Consider the following:
- Sun exposure: Is the light pole in full sun or shade? Choose shade-loving or sun-loving plants.
- Plant size: Look for compact, small varieties that won’t overgrow the planter space. Trailing and vine plants are great choices.
- Climate: Choose plants suited for your hardiness zone and environment.
- Maintenance: Opt for easy care, drought tolerant plants that don’t require frequent watering or pruning.
Some great options include ivy, ferns, impatiens, petunias, million bells, vinca, sweet allysum, and dwarf spreads. For variety, use a mix of cascading and upright plants.
Attaching the Planter
There are a few options when it comes to securely attaching your DIY light pole planter:
Zip Ties
Plastic zip ties wrapped around the planter and pole create a tight fit. Use sturdy, outdoor rated zip ties. You’ll need at least 8-10 zip ties for a snug attachment.
Chicken Wire
Metal chicken wire can be wrapped around the planter and pole to keep it pressed close. Bend the wire to create a cylindrical cage securing the planter in place.
Adhesive Velcro Strips
Wide velcro strips with industrial strength adhesive can adhere the planter fabric directly to the light pole for a tight hold.
Rope or Twine
Wrapping rope or twine around the light pole and planter can attach it snugly. Tie knots or use adhesive to reinforce the hold.
Regardless of the method, check that the planter fits flush to the pole. A tight attachment is crucial for windy outdoor areas so the planter won’t blow off.
Installation Process
Installing a DIY light pole planter is simple with these steps:
- Clean the light pole to create a smooth surface for the planter to adhere to.
- Lay out the planter flat and fill with a high quality potting mix suitable for outdoor growing.
- Plant your chosen greenery in the planter spacing plants equally. Make sure the roots fit fully within the planter and are covered with soil.
- Water the plants thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
- Wrap the planter around the pole making sure it contours snugly. The ends of the planter should overlap each other.
- Secure the planter using your chosen attachment method such as zip ties or chicken wire. The planter should fit flush against the pole without gaps.
- Check that the planter feels firmly attached by gently shaking it and trying to pull it off.
- Water the light pole planter well to give plants a good start in their new home.
With the planter secured, your light pole greenery is ready to enhance your space! Add a trellis inside the planter for vines to climb up if desired.
Caring for Your Light Pole Planter
Ongoing care will keep your light pole planter looking its best:
- Water regularly, 1-2 times per week, checking that the soil stays evenly moist but not soaked. Adjust for hot and dry weather.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Prune back overgrown foliage and deadhead spent blooms.
- Watch for pests like aphids or signs of disease and treat any issues promptly.
- Check planter attachments regularly and reinforce as needed, particularly after storms.
- Rotate plants seasonally, replanting with fresh greenery 2-3 times per year.
With proper routine care, your DIY light pole planter will thrive for many seasons!
Ideas and Inspiration
Looking for more DIY light pole planter ideas? Consider these creative options:
- Plant a mix of pink and white trailing flowers for a romantic feel.
- Create a tropical look with luscious ferns and brightly colored impatiens.
- Use all red blooming plants for a bold pop of color.
- Mix edible herbs and lettuces for a productive planter.
- Let vines like ivy trail far down the side of the pole.
- Incorporate decorative elements like bows or solar lighting.
- Match the color scheme to nearby garden beds or your home exterior.
- Group multiple matching pole planters along a pathway or throughout your yard.
With the right plants and a creative vision, you can design a DIY light pole planter that enhances your landscape and fits your personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much soil do I need?
The amount of soil depends on the size of your planter. Estimate 1-3 cubic feet of soil for a standard pole planter 2-3 feet tall. Have extra soil on hand to top off if needed after planting.
How often do light pole planters need watered?
Check soil moisture daily at first to get a sense of water needs. Plan to water 1-2 times per week on average depending on weather, plant types, and sunlight exposure. Water more frequently in hot, dry weather.
What can I use if I don’t have zip ties or chicken wire?
Other items like jute twine, metal wire, or velcro plant ties can substitute. You can also carefully drill small holes in the planter sides to thread rope or wire through for attaching.
How do I take the planter down to change plants?
Simply cut the zip ties or untie attachment materials to detach the planter. Replace and secure with new zip ties or your preferred method when replanting.
Should I fertilize light pole planters?
Yes, fertilizing is recommended every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for healthy plants. Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer following label directions. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Conclusion
Installing a DIY light pole planter is an easy, inexpensive way to instantly add charm to your outside space. With a flexible planter, quality soil, and plants suited for the conditions, you can create beautiful vertical greenery on poles and posts. Place your light pole planter in a spot where it can make the biggest impact and enjoy the added curb appeal and nature it brings to your landscape all season long.