general | April 05, 2026

How to Build a Vertical Garden

Introduction

I love having a vegetable garden. But since I moved to the city, my space is limited. This vertical garden — a simple, attractive design built with cedar boards — has a small footprint and vertical “acreage” that makes the most of my urban backyard.

Tools Required

Materials Required

  • 1 - 1-1/2" Dowel
  • 12 - 2x12x8' Cedar boards
  • 3 - 2x6x8' Cedar boards
  • Box 2-1/2" trim screws

Fh23apr 624 51 028 How To Build A Vertical GardenFamily Handyman

Project Overview

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Leg Detail

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Cutting List

KEYQTY.DIMENSIONSPART
A362-1/2″ x 11-1/4″ x 1-1/2″Tier 1 sides
B348-1/2″ x 11-1/4″ x 1-1/2″Tier 2 sides
C33 34-1/2″ x 11-1/4″ x 1-1/2″Tier 3 sides
D320-1/2″ x 11-1/4″ x 1-1/2″Tier 4 sides
E333″ x 5-1/2″ x 1-1/2″Stand Legs
F136″ x 1-1/2″Center Dowel