Potting bench pampers gardener

Like woodworkers and cooks, gardeners know that a well-organized, dedicated workspace is as important as tools and raw materials. After all, if a good workbench is key to the success of a woodworking project, and a great meal starts with a clean, well-appointed kitchen, why wouldn’t the same principle apply to gardening?

How to build it

Designed to be built in a weekend or two, this versatile potting bench project is made from standard cuts of redwood (as pictured), cedar or pine. The project features a big worktop with a hutch above for tools, seeds and small pots. Underneath, shelves and a large compartment hold bulkier items like bags of potting soil, fertilizer or even a covered compost container.

Simple enough for most do-it-yourselfers (even if you’re more gardener than woodworker), the project features all straight cuts and full-size patterns for the joinery. To build, simply cut the pieces to length, sand and assemble using glue, nails and screws. Apply your finish of choice and head for the nursery.

The potting bench measures about 51 inches long by 24 inches deep by 65 inches tall.

How to order the plan

The Potting Bench plan, No. 910, is $9.95 and includes step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.

Also available is a package of planter plans, No. C128, which is $22.95 and includes plans for a wishing well planter, a planter bench and a wheelbarrow planter.

A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o (insert name of publication here), 3800 Oceanic Dr., Ste. 107, Oceanside, CA 92056.

To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453. Visit U-Bild on the web at www.u-bild.com.