Build a flower box on top of concrete block

Creating a flower box on top of concrete blocks is a great way to elevate your plants while also adding aesthetic value to your outdoor space. Below is a step-by-step guide to building one:

### Materials Needed:

1. **Concrete Blocks**: Depending on the size of the flower box, you'll need sufficient blocks to form the base.
2. **Wood for the Flower Box**:
   - Untreated cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated wood (2x4s or 2x6s are common sizes).
3. **Wood Screws**: To assemble the flower box.
4. **Wood Glue (Optional)**: For added stability.
5. **Landscape Fabric**: To prevent soil from escaping while allowing drainage.
6. **Potting Soil**: Suitable for the flowers you intend to plant.
7. **Plants/Flowers**: Your choice of flowers or plants for the box.
8. **Sandpaper**: For smoothing edges.
9. **Measuring Tape**: To ensure precise dimensions.
10. **Saw**: For cutting wood (circular saw or hand saw).
11. **Drill and Drill Bits**: For placing screws.
12. **Level**: To ensure the flower box is level on the blocks.

### Tools Needed:

- Power drill
- Saw
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Screwdriver

### Instructions:

1. **Choose the Location**:
   - Identify where you want to place the concrete blocks and the flower box. Ensure it receives the required sunlight for the plants you intend to grow.

2. **Prepare the Concrete Blocks**:
   - Decide on the layout. Typically, a 2x2 configuration (four blocks forming a square) or a 1x4 (one row of four blocks) is ideal.
   - Place the concrete blocks on level ground, ensuring they are stable and secure.

3. **Build the Flower Box**:
   - **Cut the Wood**: Measure and cut your wood to create the sides of the flower box. Typical dimensions might be 4 feet long, 1.5 feet wide, and 1 foot tall, but adjust based on your preference.
   - **Assemble the Box**: Using wood screws, assemble the box by attaching the sides together. Reinforce the corners for added stability. If desired, use wood glue in addition to screws.
   - **Sand the Edges**: Smooth all the edges of the wood to prevent splinters.

4. **Attach the Landscape Fabric**:
   - Before placing soil, staple or attach landscape fabric to the bottom and sides of the box to hold the soil while allowing water to drain.

5. **Position the Flower Box**:
   - Lift the completed flower box and set it on top of the concrete blocks. Use the level to ensure everything is even.

6. **Fill with Soil**:
   - Fill the flower box with potting soil, leaving enough space at the top for the plants.

7. **Plant Your Flowers**:
   - Add your chosen flowers or plants into the soil, spacing them accordingly for growth.

8. **Water and Care**:
   - Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Ensure to check regularly for watering needs, as elevated boxes can dry out faster.

### Final Touches:

- **Decoration**: Consider painting or sealing the wood for protection against the elements and to enhance the look of your flower box.
- **Edging or Mulch**: Add mulch to the top of the soil for aesthetic appeal and moisture retention.

### Maintenance:

- Regularly check for any signs of rot or decay in the wood.
- Refresh the soil and plants as needed, and prune dead leaves or spent flowers to maintain your flower box's beauty.

By following these steps, you’ll have a lovely flower box sitting atop concrete blocks, perfect for showcasing your flowers in an attractive and accessible manner!