Do-it-yourself Gabion Planter: Ideas And Advice

Video: Do-it-yourself Gabion Planter: Ideas And Advice

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

Gabions are both practical and decorative elements that are increasingly finding their place in our gardens and outdoor spaces. These are wire cages filled with various materials which are, therefore, used for the creation of fences, planters and raised beds, benches and other landscaping. The gabion can take straight or curved shapes, or it is possible to structure it on one or more levels. Among the projects that generate the most interest and are suitable even for DIY enthusiasts, is the DIY gabion planter. If the idea of building one comes to your mind, this article will be very useful for you!

Gabion planter: a practical and aesthetic structure for the modern garden

The term gabion comes from the Italian word "gabionne" which means a large cage and designates wicker defensive structures, filled with rubble and earth, which were used in the 16th century. Today, the cage is made of galvanized steel and has a modern look. Practical and aesthetic, the gabion planter can be installed in the garden, on the balcony or directly on the terrace. The variety of shapes and sizes available make it a versatile decorative object that can be found in all outdoor spaces. Installation is very easy - no need to have any DIY knowledge to assemble and lay a gabion. All you have to do is install the different parts of the steel cage, then place it in the desired location before filling it with the chosen filling.

As for the filling, it is possible to use any type of stone. Here are some ideas:

• Crushed concrete • Crushed

slate

• Pebbles

• Gravel

• White rolled

gravel

• Crushed rock • Crushed granite

• Marble

pebbles

• Limestone • Brick

What to consider when choosing stones

gabion cage galvanized steel filling pebbles white marble

To build a gabion, special attention should be paid to the choice of stones. It does not matter what role the gabion will play - planter, retaining wall, bench, barbecue etc. - the stones must be both resistant and aesthetic. Their diameter is also a factor of size. It is important that the stone does not escape once placed in the gabion. As an example, for a mesh with a diameter of 25 × 100 mm, it is recommended to choose stones with a diameter between 40 and 60 mm.

What are the advantages of a gabion planter?

gabion planter cage red small shrubs garden decoration ideas

The gabion planter, just like other structures of its kind, is strong and this is only one of its many advantages.

• Longevity: this type of structure lasts a very long time without deteriorating.

• The gabion planter requires almost no maintenance. It is enough to spray it with a jet of water from time to time to get rid of dust and traces of mud.

• This structure is draining - the stones allow water to pass through without retention.

• Thanks to its aesthetic which is in harmony with nature, the gabion is an excellent choice for landscaping.

• A gabion planter is also used to create privacy in the garden. In addition, it helps to structure the various exterior areas.

• The natural stones used for the infill store the heat of the sun and make cool evenings on the terrace or in the garden more pleasant.

• A gabion planter is not complicated to make. It can be assembled quickly, easily and without special tools.

Do-it-yourself gabion planter

gabion planter square shape modern design green plants

1. To make a gabion planter, you will need cages and gabion stones. Regarding the cage, you will have to choose from the different sizes and meshes depending on your project. Take into consideration that the cages can be mounted horizontally or vertically. Once the cage is full, its weight is sufficient to ensure perfect stability. Also choose the most suitable infill for your project.

2. Before you start, it is necessary to find a place of choice for your work because once installed, you will not be able to move it.

3. The gabion cage assembles easily. You simply have to attach the different parts to each other using the fixing hooks provided for this purpose. Once the hooks are in place, the planter will take shape. Now all you have to do is place it where you want it and then fill the edges with the fill you have chosen.

4. At this stage of the project, we recommend that you install a geotextile film to prevent the earth from mixing with the stones.

5. After that, you can fill the gabion with topsoil and plant your favorite flowers, plants or herbs.