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Are you tired of starting seeds on the kitchen table or crouching down to transplant from one pot to another on the ground? If so, you’ll want to build a potting bench. Here you’ll find a wide variety of potting tables, benches, and stations to choose from, as well as building instructions. These range from projects that anyone can do, like repurposing old dressers or leftover patio furniture, all the way through dramatic pieces of garden architecture. No matter your skill level, you should be able to find something here for you!
For simplicity, I’ve organized these by size, with ones of undefined size in their own category. If you’re more of a watch-and-learn type, the last few are all in video-only format. So let’s dive into the wide and wonderful world of the potting bench, and hopefully you’ll be inspired to build one that will suit your space and needs!
Small Benches (less than 45” wide)
Kid-Sized Chesapeake Potter’s Bench
Are your kids aspiring gardeners? Build them their own potting bench in a kid-friendly size! This one is a knockoff of a Chesapeake styled bench available through a big box store, just scaled down to a size that’s appropriate for kids. Like the adult version, it’s got a big storage shelf on the bottom, and a hutch-styled back which can give extra storage for flowerpots or your kid’s hand tools, and a good sized working area. And if you don’t have kids, don’t fear – you can always scale this up into a grown-up sized version! Detailed plans are available at this site.
| Dimensions | 28” wide x 15” deep x 40.75” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 22.25” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Small and Solid Potting Table
Using leftover wood from other projects, mostly 2×4’s or 2×6’s, this person created a workable small potting table that can do double-duty as a barbecue table. Since it’s made from pressure treated wood, it’s sure to hold up to the elements, and its solid construction guarantees it’ll last for years. It’s a bit shorter than most potting benches, which means it’d also work well for families with younger kids! Check it out at this link.
| Dimensions | 36” wide x 15” deep x 29.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 29.5” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Cheap and Basic Potting Table
Don’t need anything fancy? Are you really just looking for a work surface that you can assemble in a day without a lot of fuss? Then here’s a project for you. Made completely out of 2x4s, this very simple potting table is an easy project that can be used not only as a potting table, but easily repurposed in other ways in the garden. No special tools are required, just a little patience and time, and you’ll be rewarded with this useful table. The plans are easy to follow, too!
| Dimensions | 36” wide x 18” deep x 33” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 33” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Hidden Cabinet Compact Potting Bench
If you’d like a potting bench that you can easily pop onto casters and roll to where you need it to be, this compact offering might be for you. The top of the bench lifts up to reveal a built-in cabinet in which you can tuck your tools away. Two doors keep everything secure inside as you raise or lower the top. It’s not huge, so it’s great for people working in smaller spaces. Check out the plans!
| Dimensions | 37” wide x 21” deep x 42.75” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 38” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Upcycled Pallet Potting Bench
People have found that pallets make a great inexpensive option for creating work surfaces out of – and you can, too. This bench has an A-frame upper shelf atop a flat work surface. While it doesn’t have a lower shelf, it’d be simple to add one if you felt the desire. It’s an easy beginner build, but be forewarned that you will need a bit more wood than a single pallet for this project, so find another free wood source. The basic assembly instructions are easy to follow.
| Dimensions | 40” wide x 21” deep x 36” tall (without upper A-frame shelf addition) |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Multi-Shelved Potting Bench
Two smaller upper shelves, one wide work surface, and one big lower shelf for storage… what more do you need? This bench is simple enough for a beginner, but doesn’t look like a beginner project when it’s completed. It’s great for smaller spaces as it’s only 40” across, but there’s a surprising amount of workspace available. All the plans and information are easy to work from.
| Dimensions | 40” wide x 22” deep x 55.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 35” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $$ |
DIY Gardener’s Potting Bench
This bench is easily modified for sizing it up or down. It’s not elaborate, but it’s sturdily constructed from fir (though you can pick your favorite wood). Under its grated top, a couple catching trays have been placed to keep your soil contained. With storage shelving above and below the work surface, it’s a simple but functional option for your garden. You can read more about it and see the how-to-build video at this site.
| Dimensions | 40” wide x 23.25” deep x 60” tall (but you can size it up or down) |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Storage-Savvy Potting Bench
Do you have a lot of compost? Bins and buckets of potting blends? This bench might be the answer to your needs. With a large and open lower storage shelf, a secondary middle shelf for tool storage, a big working surface, and a narrow top shelf, this bench crams all kinds of storage capacity into a small footprint. Here are the plans and assembly directions!
| Dimensions | 40” wide x 25” deep x 50” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Three Tier Potting Bench
This potting bench can be used both as a potting bench and as a display for your prized plants, and works well either way. Its frame is angled outward like a plant rack, but you can stand at the back of it and use the top shelf for all of your potting needs while sunning your newly-transplanted seedlings on the other two shelves. The instructions and plans are simple, and it’s inexpensive to build.
| Dimensions | 40” wide x 30” deep x 40” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 40” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Basic Red Potting Bench
What a great potting bench for a beginner! This red potting bench has a sturdy lower shelf for storage of potting soil bags or bins, a nice-sized work surface, and an upper shelf for storing unused pots or assorted supplies. It’s constructed mostly out of 2×4’s, which means that if you use pine boards and a nice exterior paint, you should be able to build it inexpensively. And, of course, it doesn’t have to be red, but it looks good in red! This site has the plans.
| Dimensions | 40.5” wide x 20.25” deep x 50.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
RyobiNATION Potting Bench
Rustic and simple, this farmhouse-style potting bench is a beginner to intermediate level project which requires minimal tools and supplies to build. It features a lower storage shelf, a work surface at a great height, and a back which is perfectly designed for hanging hooks to store your tools. It can be simple or stunning depending on your choice of wood, and looks good whether it’s painted, stained, oiled or left natural. Complete plans and a short video on its construction are available through this page.
| Dimensions | 42” wide x 23.5” deep x 61.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Potting Bench With Decorative Roof
Do you want something that might fit in next to your two-story house? Consider this potting bench. Extremely tall, it’s roughly 100” to the peak of the roof, although you can adjust the height to your personal preference during construction. There is lower-level storage, plus the ability to hang some plants above the work surface without them being in the way. The roof is purely decorative, as although it might offer a bit of shade to your hanging plants, it won’t prevent the rain from coming into your workspace. Check out these plans and see if it’s for you!
| Dimensions | 42” wide x 24” deep x 100” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Pallet Bench With Storage Bin
Start with two pallets, end up with a wide potting bench with a built-in storage compartment and a storage shelf. Sound like your sort of project? Look no further, because this rustic-styled bench is designed with you in mind. A hinged door opens on the bench’s surface to reveal a storage box built in underneath which would be perfect for stashing your tools or a soil bin. The lower shelf is slatted to provide drainage, and with a couple coats of exterior paint, this pallet project will hold up for a good long time. Basic plans are available here.
| Dimensions | 43” wide x 18” deep x 31.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 31.5” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Classic Propagation Bench
If you’re limited on space and can’t have both a greenhouse and a potting bench in your garden, this propagation bench will help you to have both. A small cold frame is attached to the working surface, allowing you to protect your seedlings and then easily repot them in the same space. Lower storage shelves keep your larger pots at hand for when your plants are ready to be transplanted. The basic plans are geared towards intermediate skill levels and allow for some customization.
| Dimensions | 43.5” wide x 24” deep x 34” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 18.5” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Perfect Potting Bench With Soil Storage Bin
On the right side of this well-designed bench, you’ll find that the top surface is wide and slatted, allowing for excess potting soil to fall right through into the pull-out soil storage bin! The left gives you a solid surface for working, as well as a pair of deep lower shelves for all your storage needs. There’s even a smaller shelf on top of its decorative upper frame to hold a few more lightweight items. Click here for more information on this intermediate project.
| Dimensions | 44.875” wide x 23.75” deep x 63” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Medium Benches (45”-54” wide)
Cedar Gardener’s Work Bench
Visually simple, this bench is appealing to look at and perfect to work at. Constructed of weather-resistant cedar, it’s a good beginner-to-intermediate project which will add appeal to your garden work area, all while providing great functionality. There’s a total of three surfaces – one narrow upper shelf, one wide work surface, and one large lower shelf for storing those bigger items. This is one of my favorites, and it might be yours too! Plans are available here.
| Dimensions | 45” wide x 24” deep x 54” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Simple and Sturdy DIY Potting Table
What a great bench for a beginner! The style of this potting table is simple, yet it looks great in the garden. One lower shelf provides ample storage space, and the work surface is roomy too. Even the most amateur carpenter could assemble this table in quick order, and depending on the wood chosen, it could become one of your favorite garden accessories. You’ll find the plans on this site.
| Dimensions | 45” wide x 29” deep x 30.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 30.5” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Pinewood Potting Cart
This is precisely what the title declares it to be – a functional, mobile potting station built from pressure-treated pine. This no-frills piece of gardening equipment can be taken right to where you need it, and houses a variety of tools and potting mix for ease. Construction plans are accessible right here.
| Dimensions | 46” wide x 24” deep x 34” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 34” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Cedar Potting Bench
When constructed of a nice quality cedar, this potting bench is both visually appealing and long-lasting. A pair of upper shelves and a larger lower shelf provide plenty of places to tuck away your equipment. Two soil bins are hidden beneath the work surface and are accessible via removable panels, including a soil-catcher slatted panel. It takes a little bit of know-how to get this one done, and it’s not the least-expensive option, but it’s still a great choice. Here you’ll find all of the details in one handy location!
| Dimensions | 47” wide x 21” deep x 62” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 33” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$$ |
Outdoor Island With Hutch
Do you want an island work surface that can double as display space? If so, this outdoor island will provide you with both a potting surface and plant shelving. It’s an intermediate project that is modular, so if you don’t need the hutch, or want just the hutch for your existing potting table, that’s entirely optional. Check out the plans and cut list!
| Dimensions | 47.75” wide x 16” deep x 39.5” tall without hutch, larger with hutch |
| Working Surface Height | 39.5” |
| Difficulty | intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Vintage Sink Potting Bench
If you’ve got a vintage sink lying around, you can incorporate it as part of this potting bench! The sink itself gives you a great place to manage soil so that it doesn’t spill out across your workspace, and the remaining wood surface provides plenty of room to place seedlings that you’re working with or stacks of pots. Like most potting benches, this one doesn’t neglect storage space, offering a wide shelf underneath to house your equipment. This site will show you how!
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 21” deep x 36” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Secretary-Style Potting Bench
Are you familiar with the style of desk called a secretary – the angled-front desk with the roll-down cover? This potting bench evokes that same shape, although it lacks the roll-down top. Made of 2×4’s and pressure-treated plywood, it’s not the most glamorous piece, but if you upgrade your wood it would be visually-appealing as well as functional. It offers a reasonable working surface with a large lower shelf and a narrow upper shelf for storage. Great beginner project, with very simple plans!
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 21” deep x 34” tall (not including top shelf height) |
| Working Surface Height | 34” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Napa-Styled European Garden Table
This great design has a cutout surface in the table with a mesh screen, keeping your plants and tools from falling into the drawer below while catching any spilled potting soil. It can double as a compost screen, too! It’s not overly large, but still provides plentiful work space while fitting into a relatively small footprint. The beginner-friendly plans are available at this site.
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 24” deep x 37” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 37” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Open-Surface Potting Bench with Chicken Wire Back
This cute little bench is quite well-designed for strength and the ability to withstand the elements. Recessed screws keep all of the 2×4 wood used secured in place while offering a little protection against rust. A simple panel of chicken wire attached to the back provides a place to hook on tools, and the lower shelf is roomy enough to provide tons of storage space. Great for a beginner who wants to learn how to use a Kreg jig! This page will give you all the details.
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 24” deep x 64” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 34” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $ |
Potting Bench With Soil Bin
This great potting bench is designed to hold a removable soil bin on the left while still providing ample counter space on the right. A lattice panel across the back gives visual interest and allows you to have a strong surface from which to hang tools and supplies using S-hooks. It’s secured and reinforced with Strong-Tie connectors at the corners, offering even more support and structural integrity. A thorough parts and cutting list is included in the plans, along with complete build instructions.
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 24” deep x 75.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 34” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $$ |
Big Pallet Potting Bench
If you have access to large pallets that are used for transporting drywall or other construction supplies, this project could cost you virtually nothing. It is basic in design and won’t win any awards for beauty. Still, it’s functional and sturdy, and does precisely what a potting bench should do… and you can’t beat the material price! Here’s the assembly guide.
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 25” deep x 48” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Organized Potting Bench With Sink
Tons of storage, lots of work space, and a sink for soil storage… this potting bench has it all. Split-level shelving fills the bottom of the potting bench, allowing for a variety of storage options. The work surface has a small sink set into the left, and lots of counter room to the right. Above it all, a nice shelf provides even more storage for pots or containers of soil amendments. You can find all the information through this link.
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 25” deep x 50” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 35” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Country-Style Potting Bench
This delightful and eclectic potting bench is well named – it is country-styled with a hint of vintage flair. Perfect for use in the backyard or in the house, it offers storage space and a spaced-slatting work surface which allows water or spilled potting soil to fall right through. With a little detail work completed, this would fit perfectly into a cottage garden or an artistic landscape. You can find the concept for this bench through this link.
| Dimensions | 48” wide x 30” deep x 72” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Professional Potting Station
Rather than just any old potting bench, perhaps you find yourself looking for something a bit different. If you’d like to have a functioning bar sink for rinsing your produce, sturdy pegboard for holding all of your equipment, ample storage space and a solid countertop upon which to do your work, this professional-level station is for you. While it is neither inexpensive or simple to construct, it is a quality work station that’s just waiting to be used. Full construction plans and details are available through this website.
| Dimensions | 49” wide x 28.5” deep x 66” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 34.75” |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Cost | $$$$ |
Garden Party Wheeled Potting Bench
This sweet little table is both stylish and strong. Designed to resemble a commercially-available table, it offers both visual appeal and functionality. A wide, slatted lower shelf offers ample storage and transport space, and the solid-surface top gives you plenty of room for potting. Best of all, it’s on wheels, so you can roll it right to where you need it to be, and it looks good enough to double as a portable bar for garden parties. There’s no specific cut list, but rough dimensions and a how-to guide are supplied at this site, along with lots of photo aids.
| Dimensions | 50” wide x 27.375 deep x 35” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 35” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Knock-Off DIY Potting Table
Instead of buying a premade potting bench, this person decided to make their own version of it – and you can too. The process is detailed on this page to make a sturdy DIY bench that looks very similar to one sold through a major chain store, and if you’d like, you can add a set of casters so it can easily be moved around. It has a lower storage shelf along with a nice and wide work surface. So why buy one when you can build your own?
| Dimensions | 50” wide x 28” deep x 36” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ depending on wood selection |
Classic Potting Bench With Hutch Top
This potting bench provides many different sizes of storage space. On top, a cabinet-style hutch gives various heights of shelving for you to tuck away smaller pots or tools. Beneath the work surface, more variable storage provides you space for items of all sizes. The work surface itself has a wooden backsplash to prevent soil from escaping behind your bench, and plenty of space to spread out on while you transplant or seed-start. Best of all, it’s not a super-difficult build, with detailed plans ready for use.
| Dimensions | 50.5” wide x 21” deep x 65” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 39.5” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Blue Potting Bench With Built-In Soil Storage
While it’s blue, you could paint it any color you’d like and it would be equally as useful! Featuring a shallow pull-out bin positioned beneath open slats for ease of potting soil control, and wide shelves that will fit all of your equipment, this sturdy and solid little bench is assuredly a great option for any gardener. It requires a little skill to assemble, but once it’s done, you will be rewarded with a functional piece for years and years to come. A full list of materials, tools and directions is at this link.
| Dimensions | 53.75” wide x 25” deep x 61.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 32.5” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$$ |
Large Benches (55” or wider)
Craftsman Styled Potting Bench
With a bit of styling that evokes the Arts and Crafts style of architecture, this potting bench will fit into the garden landscape wonderfully. The work surface is solid and secure, with a roomy lower shelf for storage and a bit of detail work for visual appeal. Intended for intermediate carpenters, this bench has very thorough plans and a full supply and cutting list.
| Dimensions | 55” wide x 33” deep x 48.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Wheelbarrow Potting Cart
This potting cart ensures that you can garden on the go, whether it’s in the front yard or back yard. A recessed tool shelf keeps your small tools right at hand. The removable lid reveals a hidden soil bucket underneath for transporting potting soil right to different areas of your garden. A pair of wheelbarrow wheels and handles makes it easy to roll this wherever you need to be, and the solid work space on the top and shelf on the bottom means you’re always supplied with exactly what you need with you. The full instructions include a materials list and how-tos.
| Dimensions | 59.5” wide x 22.5” deep x 33.5” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 31.5” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
The Wood Post Potting Bench
With a few S-hooks, you can hang your hand tools up on the latticed back of this potting bench. A sloped upper compartment houses your smaller pots, while a large, slatted shelf on the bottom provides storage for soil. The wide surface provides plenty of room to work on, too! Find directions and a supply list here.
| Dimensions | 60” wide x 19” deep x 73.125” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Aluminum and Wood Potting Table
This shelved table is a delight. One side has a sheet aluminum work surface which provides an area that’s easy to clean, won’t stain, and is fireproof so it can do double-duty as a place to put a portable grill. The other side is constructed of wood slats to provide a nice solid surface for the rest of your gear. Beneath it lies a long, deep shelf which can hold both heavy-duty bags or buckets of soil and stacks of terracotta pots with strength and ease. The plans are straightforward and simple, too!
| Dimensions | 60” wide x 24” deep x 30” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 30” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Make A Gardener’s Potting Bench
This great potting bench has plenty of tool storage, a galvanized tub sink, and lots of shelving. They recommend using cedar for longevity, but you can easily adjust the plans to use other comparable woods. While it requires a little skill to assemble, an experienced builder can finish this project in a day. All the details can be found at this page.
| Dimensions | 60” wide x 24” deep x 60” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$$ |
Sunset’s Stylish Potting Bench
One feature that potting benches often neglect is side rails to keep your stuff from sliding off the edge as you work – and this bench has side rails and much more. A lower shelf gives you great storage, while the work surface is a solid flat space that’s ready for use. Hardware cloth stretched across the back works as a place for hanging tools, and it’s topped off with a narrow and high shelf space which offers a little added space for pots or other equipment. Here’s the full plans!
| Dimensions | 60” wide x 25” deep x 63” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 31” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Big Potting Station/Bar With Storage Box
Built initially as a custom outdoor bar, the creator of this piece realized quickly that it could be used easily as a potting station and so helpfully supplied plans online. It’s a big footprint piece with a deep built-in storage box that can be used for soil storage (or for a hidden ice chest). It doesn’t lack in storage, having multiple lower shelves and upper shelves to hold your equipment, and overall it would provide an abundance of space for any project you might take on! All of the plans are available right here.
| Dimensions | 60” wide x 36” deep x 55” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Seed Starting Bench
This intermediate project will net you a sturdy seed starting bench with supports for an adjustable shop light. Its sizeable work surface ensures you have plenty of space for getting your plants off to a good start, plus it has shelving available for storage. The bare-bones plans are available here.
| Dimensions | 63” x 28.5” x 80” |
| Working Surface Height | 32.5” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Barn Door Cabinet Potting Bench
This great potting bench can be finished two ways – it can either just be a bench with space for storage beneath, or it can be finished with an additional barn door-style cabinet on top for storing smaller pots and tools. The wide surface of the bench extends out past its storage shelf on either side, giving it plenty of width without requiring a lot of extra materials. You can find full instructions here.
| Dimensions | 65” wide x 26” deep x 80” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$$ |
Gardener’s Ultimate Potting Bench
This one is unique in that it has variable-height working surfaces, which means the lower-level storage is also varied in the space available. A narrow upper shelf provides added storage space. The way it’s built ensures that every surface will be able to hold heavy items with ease. And best of all, it looks great! Full and detailed plans are available here.
| Dimensions | 68.25” wide x 24.75” deep x 60” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 33”-36” (depending on level) |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Cost | $$$ |
Stylish and Solid Potting Bench
This potting bench combines form and function into one elegant and useful working area. With a bit of the Mission style of architecture built into its design, it incorporates multiple cubbyhole shelves, a wide and thick working surface with a built-in sifting screen with cover, and a lower shelf for storage. It requires some carpentry know-how, but when completed, it could easily be a centerpiece of your backyard on its own, and a joy to work at. Plans and instructions can be found right here.
| Dimensions | 69” wide x 20.5” deep x 66” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 32.5” |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Cost | $$$$ |
Basic Potting Table With Pot Rail
When built out of pressure-treated 2×4’s and composite decking boards, this solid potting table will withstand the elements beautifully for years to come. Its wide surface gives lots of working space, and it has a narrow centered pot shelf tucked beneath to tuck away your pottery and plastics. It’s easily modifiable to your height preferences, too. Check out the details on this site.
| Dimensions | 71” wide x 28” deep x 36” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Functional Potting Bench With Storage Mesh
This potting bench is extremely long, providing plenty of space for planting, storage, seed starting and the like. Hardware cloth is stretched along the back to create a mesh to hang tools or other items on, topped with a narrow shelf. A deeper shelf runs underneath the work surface to help you keep all your gear right at hand when it’s needed. It’s a no-fuss, easy to build solution for your potting needs. You can find all of the details at this link.
| Dimensions | 72” wide x 24” deep x 58” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $$ |
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Heavy-Duty Potting Table
If you don’t need anything fancy, but want a potting table that will last for years, this is the pick for you! It’s not super-complicated to construct, although the work surface is inset and requires knowledge of how to do rabbets. Visually, it is quite simple — a nice work surface with a sturdy lower shelf – but it will fit into virtually any garden space. A complete how-to guide is provided at this site.
| Dimensions | 72” wide x 28” deep x 34” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 34” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Rustic Reclaimed Potting Bench
A pair of bloggers came up with this bench, and between their two sites, they’ve provided all of the details necessary to build your own in a similar style. This bench includes a tiled work surface – something that’s uncommon among most of our featured plans – along with cupboard-like storage beneath and a windowframe back with top shelving. You’ll want one of these found-wood treasures in your yard! This requires a little knowhow to do, so this is an intermediate level project. Start your journey in exploring this potting bench style on this site, and be sure to follow her link to her blogging buddy for more detailed dimensions and plans.
| Dimensions | 84” wide x 24” deep x 72.75” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 37” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate+ |
| Cost | $-$$$$ Variable, depends on how many reclaimed components you use. |
Shaded Garden Potting Bench
Shade in the summertime is a necessity, and this bench can provide it. Its roof has a slight 15º angle to provide rain runoff and a front overhang to prevent damage from rain and sun. The super-wide work surface and lower shelf ensures you have more than ample elbow room, even if you are working with a friend. If you have shade-loving plants, they will appreciate this bench as much as you will! Here’s where you can find all of the directions.
| Dimensions | 86” wide x 28.5” deep x 56” tall |
| Working Surface Height | 32” |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ (more if you add roofing materials) |
Unknown or Variable Dimension Benches
Perfect Picket Fence Potting Bench
This adorable and small potting bench is completely constructed out of reclaimed picket fence boards. While no dimensions are provided for it, full instructions as to how it was assembled are offered, which means that you can easily replicate it with whatever lumber you might have on hand. This is a great way to repurpose old fencing or leftover materials from another project into something functional!
| Dimensions | Unknown |
| Working Surface Height | Unknown |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Pull-Down Pallet Potting Bench
If you’ve got a pair of old pallets in your garage or yard, you have most of the equipment necessary to build this hanging potting bench. With a bit of sturdy chain and a few hinges and screws, you’ll have this recycled wood project done in almost no time at all. All you’ll need to do is hang it and get right into gardening! Assembly instructions can be found right here.
| Dimensions | Based on size of pallet |
| Working Surface Height | Based on height you hang it at |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Bedpost Potting Table
This is one of the easiest builds we’re showing off today. With a few old bedposts, a couple pieces of lumber, and some very minor tools, you can add this long, simplistic table to your gardening arsenal. Best of all, you can ensure that it fits your space exactly, because other than the legs, the rest of it is completely adaptable based on your needs. Here’s all the details!
| Dimensions | Variable |
| Working Surface Height | Also variable, depends on the length of the bedposts or table legs that you use |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $-$$ |
Basic Pallet Potting Bench
If you have access to free pallets in your area, then you have most of the supplies you’ll need for this pallet bench. With the addition of a few wood screws, even the most novice carpenter can convert old transport wood into a new bench with a lower shelf for storage and a slatted back suitable for hanging up your supplies. This website has the plans with detailed photos.
| Dimensions | Depends on pallet size, but typically 40-42” wide x 60” tall with adjustable depth |
| Working Surface Height | Variable, but typically 37” |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Upcycled Table Potting Bench
Do you have an old picnic table that’s past its prime and a couple old benches? Convert it into a big potting station with bench “shelving”! This website will walk you through the process of how to do it, plus a few photos of other varieties of potting benches built from other upcycled materials like old cabinetry or beat-up bookcases for inspiration.
| Dimensions | Varies based on materials used |
| Working Surface Height | Variable |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Transformed Dresser Potting Bench
If you’re thinking about getting rid of that old dresser, wait a moment – you might be able to repurpose it! With a little bit of planning and the addition of some exterior paint, your old dresser can have a new life as a potting bench. This page will demonstrate how they converted an old dresser into a potting station with inset plastic tub for soil storage, even using some of the old drawers for tool storage.
| Dimensions | Variable (depends on the dresser) |
| Working Surface Height | Variable (depends on the dresser) |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Attractive Potting Bench
This potting bench lives up to its name, as it’s an attractive piece to add to your garden. A built-in recess catches clippings and debris in a trash can placed under the bench. Multiple shelves provide plenty of storage for bags of potting soil or sundry supplies, and the flat work surface is large enough to tackle most projects. You can watch the assembly video and read more about the project at this link.
| Dimensions | Variable, see site for further detail |
| Working Surface Height | Adjustable, see above |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
Fence Board Potting Bench
This potting bench makes great use of fence boards to provide a back and structural integrity to the piece. While the dimensions aren’t detailed, this can easily be constructed to any size preferred with the assembly directions that are provided here, and the style will look great almost anywhere. You might even be able to build it directly onto your existing fenceline!
| Dimensions | Variable (build to suit) |
| Working Surface Height | Variable (build to suit) |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$ |
Indoor-Outdoor Planting Bench With Grow Light
Are you looking for a workspace to start your seeds and get a jumpstart on the growing season? This planting bench will give you that option. Featuring a built-in light fixture for starting seeds, an ample work surface, and plenty of storage below, this is truly an all-seasons bench. The light fixture can be removed when it’s not needed, enabling you to use the bench outdoors during the summertime when the weather is good, and easily put back in place for indoor growing in the colder winter months. A video on its construction is available right here.
| Dimensions | Variable, depending on size of grow light and personal preference |
| Working Surface Height | Variable, based on personal preference |
| Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$$ (depending on grow light choice) |
Monterey Potting Center
This incredible redwood design has a small roof to provide shade over your workspace, plus many shelves and a comfortable work height. Multiple design options are provided so that you can customize the size of your potting center, and the durable redwood it’s built from is long-lasting and beautiful whether left natural or coated in a clear coat to protect the wood’s surface. A cutting list and build plans can be found here.
| Dimensions | Variable, depends on options chosen (but can be up to 70” tall) |
| Working Surface Height | Variable based on options chosen |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cost | $$-$$$ |
The Potting Bar
Just like the name indicates, this potting bench also doubles as an outdoor bar. Modular storage is tucked away inside, and a nice coat of finish stain gives the wood a rich luster. It makes a beautiful piece of outdoor furniture as well as a great place to work on your containers! A narrow upper shelf is a great place to display plants, and the work surface is long and wide enough to provide you with plenty of space to play. The plans can be located here, but you’ll have to subscribe (for free!) to see them.
| Dimensions | Unknown |
| Working Surface Height | Unknown |
| Difficulty | Intermediate to advanced |
| Cost | $$-$$$$ |
Mobile Potting Table
This potting table is more of a potting cart, and can also be used as a mobile bar, BBQ side table, or any other number of things. It’s definitely a project for the woodworker in your life! It looks good, it works really well, and it could even be customized with water fixtures to allow you to plug a garden hose in and rinse off your vegetables. Detailed plans are available through this site.
| Dimensions | Unknown |
| Working Surface Height | 36” |
| Difficulty | Intermediate to advanced |
| Cost | $$$ |
Challenging Potter’s Station En Français
Would you like a challenge? This piece of garden cabinetry will provide it in multiple ways. First, it takes some solid carpentry experience to take this piece on, and it will truly be a piece of outdoor furniture to treasure when it’s done. Secondly, all of the plans are in French, which means that if you speak the language, you are already at a great advantage. But the schematics are quite detailed, measurements are supplied (also in French), and your finished piece will be gorgeous. So if you’re up for the challenge of this French garden potting station, check it out!
| Dimensions | Unknown – unfortunately, I don’t speak French! |
| Working Surface Height | See above |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Cost | $$$+, depending on your wood selection |
Video Plans
Here’s a few videos for those who prefer to watch and experiment on their own – simple to complex, all of these are great options!
Legless Potting Bench
If you want something that you can literally set up anywhere, this lightweight plywood construction is ideal. Using cinderblocks, bricks, or sawhorses in lieu of legs, all you have to do is to pop this easily-constructed top in place and you’re ready to work. When you’re done, you can store it away until you need it again. Watch the video here.
| Dimensions | Variable |
| Working Surface Height | Variable |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
Rustic Pallet Potting Bench
There are a million ways to convert old pallets into useful potting surfaces, and this short video shows you another variation on the theme. This is one of the nicer ones, but the best thing about it is that it only requires a saw and a hammer to build, so it’s friendly to people who’re lacking in tools. Check out the short video!
| Dimensions | Variable |
| Working Surface Height | Variable |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Cost | $ |
The Pro-Built Bench
This extensive 40-minute video will take you from start to finish through the construction of a high-quality potting bench and show you every step you need to build it. The bench itself has hanging bins for soil catching or waste, a wide work surface, storage space and shelving. You can watch the full-length video for more information.
| Dimensions | See video for measurements |
| Working Surface Height | See video for measurements |
| Difficulty | Intermediate to advanced |
| Cost | $$$ |
Have any of these plans caught your eye? Hopefully you’re now inspired to put together your own solution that fits perfectly within your garden! If you do decide to build any of these, or something completely different, I’d love to hear about it!
