Vertical Gutter Herb Planter
Repurposed rain gutters mounted in tiers create a space-saving vertical planter perfect for kitchen herbs.
Estimated cost
$25 – $60
Estimated time
1 – 2 hours
Lifespan
5–8 years
Soil needed
Light potting mix, 1–2 cubic ft per tier
Weight empty
10–20 lbs per tier
Weight full
40–70 lbs per tier when watered
Best for
Herbs, strawberries, and shallow-rooted greens on fences or walls
Placement
Mount on a fence or wall that gets morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates. Angle gutters slightly for drainage.
Boards to Buy
| Boards to Buy | Quantity | What You Use Them For |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl rain gutters, 5–6 ft | 3 | Planter tiers |
| End caps | 6 | Closes gutter ends |
| Gutter brackets | 6–9 | Mounts to fence |
| Light potting mix | 2–3 cubic ft | Growing medium |
- ·Exterior screws, 2 inch
- ·Drill with small bit for drainage
- ·Herb seedlings
Steps
- 1Measure and mark bracket locations on the fence.
- 2Install brackets level with a slight downward tilt toward one end.
- 3Drill small drainage holes every 6 inches along the gutter bottom.
- 4Snap gutters into brackets and seal end caps.
- 5Fill with light potting mix.
- 6Plant herbs, leaving space for airflow and growth.
- 7Water gently until drainage appears.
Tools needed
- ·Cordless drill / driver
- ·Tape measure and level
- ·Hacksaw if cutting gutters
Common mistakes to avoid
- ·No drainage holes — roots rot fast
- ·Using heavy garden soil — it compacts and cracks gutters
- ·Mounting too level — water sits in one end
- ·Overcrowding — herbs need airflow
Maintenance tips
Water more often than in-ground beds. Trim herbs to keep them compact. Empty and refresh soil each spring.
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