Planters not only serve decorative landscaping purposes but are also essential from a functional point of view. These container gardens break up the monotony of the garden by adding points of interest to the area. They also define the space exclusively for growing and prevent weeds from creeping in -- or contained mulch from spreading out. Build circular planters using paver bricks to create inexpensive yet rustic focal points in the landscape that define trees or provide room for coloured flowers. Paver bricks come in a variety of shades and textures.

  • Planters not only serve decorative landscaping purposes but are also essential from a functional point of view.
  • These container gardens break up the monotony of the garden by adding points of interest to the area.

Draw the boundaries of circular planter with powdered chalk. Create two rings of chalk between which you will lay bricks. Keep the radius of the planter at least 90 cm (3 feet) for mature trees, or lesser for shorter plants. The final width depends on personal taste and available space.

Remove turf or weeds between the inner and outer chalk rings using a shovel. Cut the turf in 60 or 90 mm squared (2 or 3 foot square) sections and slide each out of the soil with the roots for use in other parts of the garden. If killing weeds, use an organic herbicide that does not disrupt microbial activity.

Dig a 120 to 180 mm (4 to 6 inch) deep trench between the outlines using a shovel. Tamp the base so it is even.

Pour fine sand over the base of the trench until it forms a 50 mm (2 inch) layer that assists in drainage. Level the sand with a trowel to smooth out the top.

  • Remove turf or weeds between the inner and outer chalk rings using a shovel.
  • Pour fine sand over the base of the trench until it forms a 50 mm (2 inch) layer that assists in drainage.

Lower the first brick over the trench and tamp it gently so it settles in place. Make sure its wider edge rests against the exterior part of the trench, adjacent to the yard or garden. Place the second brick next to it the same way, and continue until you lay the first row of paver bricks.

Step back to inspect and ensure all the bricks of the first row lie at the same level. Lift any brick that is slightly higher or lower than the adjacent ones, and remove or add sand underneath. Set it back in place and tamp it down.

Lay the bricks of the second row directly above the base row but stagger the bricks for added stability. To stagger a brick, place it above the seam or joint of the two bricks directly below. Continue laying bricks in subsequent rows until the planter is up to 30 cm (1 foot) tall.

  • Lower the first brick over the trench and tamp it gently so it settles in place.
  • To stagger a brick, place it above the seam or joint of the two bricks directly below.

TIP

Lay weed fabric over the base of the planter. Apply mortar to the bricks if building a planter higher than 30 cm (1 foot). Spread concrete over the base of the trench instead of sand and allow it to cure for five days to a week. Apply an even layer of mortar to the base of each brick and lay it over the concrete footing. Add rows of bricks to create the planter to your desired height.