Building an outdoor plant box with integrated seating is a fantastic way to combine functionality and aesthetics in your garden. The key challenge is ensuring the seating doesn’t harm the plants. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve this:

1. Choose the Right Materials: Opt for untreated, rot-resistant wood like cedar or redwood. Avoid pressure-treated lumber, as chemicals can leach into the soil and harm plants.

2. Design with Plant Protection in Mind: Elevate the seating slightly above the plant box to prevent root compression. Leave at least 6-8 inches of soil depth for healthy plant growth.

3. Add Proper Drainage: Drill small holes in the bottom of the plant box to prevent waterlogging, which can damage roots.

4. Use a Barrier: Place a breathable landscape fabric between the seating structure and the soil to minimize soil disturbance while allowing water and air to pass through.

5. Secure the Seating: Attach the seating to the outer frame of the plant box using sturdy brackets, ensuring no weight is directly on the soil or plants.

6. Finish with Non-Toxic Sealant: Apply a plant-safe sealant to protect the wood from moisture without harming the plants.

By following these steps, you’ll create a beautiful, functional outdoor plant box with seating that keeps your plants thriving. Happy gardening!