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How to build a D.I.Y. gabion potting bench

By Bunnings magazine /

A completed gambion potting bench with trowel, stainless steel watering can and several potted succulents on top

Overview

For a functional yet decorative addition to your outdoor space, our stylish gabion potting table doubles as a focal point in any garden. We show you how to build your own.

Steps

  1. 1

    Make the base

    Assemble the gabions by positioning the sides and bottom together and secure them by winding on the supplied spiral connectors, leaving the tops aside.

  2. 2

    Insert two concrete blocks and brace the gabions

    Place a gabion where the base of the potting bench will sit, then position two blocks in the centre. At the top, in the centre, twist wire around one side, run it to the other side and twist to secure and brace the sides to prevent bowing.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Bend the wire around the top at least twice to hold it securely and cut with pliers.
    A concrete block sitting inside an otherwise empty gabion cage
  3. 3

    Place the stones in the gabion

    Fill around the blocks with landscaping stones, positioning them to sit flush against the gabion sides, then attach the top with the supplied spiral connectors.

    Landscaping rocks being arranged inside a gabion cage around a concrete block
  4. 4

    Stack the remaining gabion on top

    Repeat by positioning two blocks in the centre of the next gabion, twisting wire over the top to brace the sides, fill with stones, then attach the top.

    A gabion cage being secured with tie wire
  5. 5

    Secure the two gabions

    Twist wire around the top and bottom gabion to hold them together at the front, back and sides, trimming excess with pliers.

  6. 6

    Make the timber top

    Position three lengths of 1500mm-long hardwood together, wrong-side up. Position 440mm lengths crosswise over the ends, then secure countersinking screws into the hardwood top, with two screws into each length at both ends.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Use an impact driver to drive in the screws, or use a regular drill to pre-drill the holes with a 3mm bit.
    A wooden benchtop being fixed together with screws and a power drill
  7. 7

    Prepare the gabion for the top

    Attach galvanised fixing clips onto the edge of the top gabion, at the front, sides and back, leaving them facing outwards for attaching to the top. 

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: It’s easier to position the clips before installing the heavy top.
  8. 8

    Position the top, sand, and apply varnish

    Lift the top into position, right-way up and centred. Smooth over the top and along the edges and corners with 120-grit abrasive paper to remove any splinters, then smooth again with 180-grit. Apply two coats of clear exterior varnish, leaving to dry after each.

  9. 9

    Secure the hardwood top

    Secure 20mm galvanised stitching screws through the holes of the clips to secure the hardwood top to the gabion, to prevent it moving or tipping.

    *Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Note: Enlist a second pair of hands to help lift the hardwood top.
    A completed gambion potting bench with trowel and stainless steel watering can
  10. 10

    More D.I.Y. garden projects

    Browse our D.I.Y. advice page dedicated to gardening, where we share makeover projects and inspiration.

    Photo Credit: John Downs

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.