Let's face it, it can be hard to hang string lights when no trees or other structures are available in your desired space. Luckily, string light planters offer a creative and eye-catching way to hang lights while showcasing your plants. Follow the steps below to create your own!
Materials
- Planters: Need to be large enough to hold concrete and the wooden posts that will be inside
- Wooden Posts: For this project, we used 4x4x8 white wood posts
- Concrete Mix: We used two 50lb bags of fast-setting concrete mix
- String Lights: String Lights from any of your favorite retailers or brands
- Hooks: Small-sized hooks to attach the lights to posts
- Drill: Used to create drainage holes in the planters and attach the lights to the house
- Potting Soil: Select the appropriate soil for the types of flowers/plants you will be using
- Flowers/Plants: Get creative! Whatever greenery or flowers you'd like to highlight in your space
- Wood Stain: Optional, dependent on the wood type you're using and the look you're going for
- Level: Optional, but ideal to make sure your posts are standing straight up
Step 1: Sand and/or Stain 4x4 Wooden Posts (Optional)Â
Depending on the type of wood you decide to purchase, sanding and staining your posts might be a great option. You can choose to do this at any time!
Pressure-treated wood is a popular choice. If you choose to go with a different type of wood, these steps may not apply to you. Every patio space is different, so it is all up to you!
Step 2: Mix Concrete & Water
Next, choose a vessel to mix your concrete. We recommend something easy to rinse when you are through, like a wheelbarrow.
Combine water and concrete together into your vessel of choice. Next, use a shovel to mix until you reach the consistency you desire. You may notice your concrete looks a little bit rocky; this is completely normal.
Step 3: Add Wooden Posts to Planters & Fill
After your concrete is mixed, it's time to add the wooden posts that will support your patio string lights.
First, simply place your wooden post into the flower planter. Next, pour your concrete mixture into the planter until the surrounding area is a little less than halfway full.
Make sure the mixture is holding the post snugly. We used one 50lb bag of concrete per planter with an eyeballed measure of water.
Step 4: Level the 4x4s
Once poured, your concrete will begin to set quickly. During this time, check that the posts are flat and even. For the most accurate read, we recommend using a level.
We used one that wraps around the post to make sure that it is balanced at all angles. If needed, make any adjustments to the placement of your wooden posts at this time.
Step 5: Drill Drainage HolesÂ
When planting flowers, they must have the optimal amount of drainage to stay alive and healthy. Drill a few small holes just above the concrete on your planter to help with drainage.
Step 6: Add Soil & Plants/Flowers
Now that the structure is in place, it's time to move on to adding your greenery. First, add potting soil on top of the concrete. Make sure there is an even layer, and it is not too tightly packed.
After placing the soil, add plants/flowers of your choice. This is where you can get as creative as you would like. Choose colors that match your patio space or something that makes your patio pop! The options are endless.
 Step 7: Apply Hooks & Hang Lights
To secure your string lights, drill one hook into each of your posts. To hang our lights, we attached them to the house and added a hook on each post to help support the lights.
Once complete, hang your lights from post to post.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Grab a chair, your favorite beverage, and your favorite people. Turn on your lights and say hello to ambiance!