Discover how to hang string lights from any spot in your yard for an instant glow up that feels warm, cozy, and downright fun.
How to Make Planter Posts for String Lights
Backyard entertaining doesn’t have to stop at sundown
Get quotes from exterior lighting pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from exterior lighting pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Need Help With a Project? Connect With a Pro
A DIY cement planter post creates a stable base for string lights using concrete, stain-treated wood beams, and drainage holes to protect your outdoor setup.
Expect to pay approximately $100 per planter post for materials including barrel planters, 4x4 wood beams, wood stain, sealant, and screws for your project.
You secure the wood beam vertically in the planter, pour concrete halfway, add drainage holes, then layer stones and soil before planting flowers above.
Hiring a local outdoor lighting professional provides reliable support with electrical connections and secure installation, keeping your backyard lighting safe and properly positioned.
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
1 day
COST
Approximately $100 per planter post.
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Power drill
SUPPLIES
- Barrel planters (or other wood planters of your choice)
- 4x4 wood beams
- Wood stain
- Wood sealant or varnish
- Wood screws
The warm glow of string lights creates ambiance in any backyard, big or small. Plus, they’re bright enough to keep summer outdoor fun going well into the night.
Are you ready to turn your backyard into the ultimate hangout space once the sun goes down? DIY planter posts for string lights make it easy to illuminate your entire backyard without having to staple cables to your house or surrounding trees. Plus, these planter posts provide extra garden space to grow vibrant flowers and greenery without having to touch your current landscaping.
Learn how to make planter posts for string lights with this simple step-by-step guide.
How to Make a Planter Post for String Lights in 8 Steps
Photo: ruslan shramko / Adobe Stock
Building your own string light post out of a wood planter is easier than you may think. Make one post and utilize surrounding trees and structures for support, or make multiple to hang string lights anywhere (or at least anywhere an extension cord will reach).
Maximize your outdoor living space in a weekend with this simple DIY project.
Stain and Treat Posts
Start by staining each of the 4x4 wood beams and letting them dry. After staining, treat and protect the wood with a sealant or varnish. This will help prevent your planter posts from weathering and warping in the elements.
Place the Planter in Desired Locations
The planter post will be too heavy to move once the concrete has been poured. Place each planter in your desired location now so you don’t have to attempt any dangerous lifting later.
Secure the Post to the Planter
Once the wood posts have fully dried, secure them vertically in the center of the planter by drilling corner brackets to the beam and the planter box. Use one bracket for each of the four sides.
Mix & Pour Concrete into the Planter
Now it’s time to mix and pour the concrete. Combine all the ingredients in a large plastic work bucket and follow the directions on the bag of concrete. Once ready, pour the concrete mix into the planter until it fills the planter halfway. Let the concrete dry for 24 to 48 hours.
Drill Holes for Drainage
Adding drainage holes to the planter will allow water to escape after rainfall, protecting the planter from rot and mildew. Use a drill and drill bit to carve out three holes on each side of the planter just above the concrete layer.
Add a Layer of Stones, Soil, and Flowers
Not only do planter posts hold string lights, but they also provide a convenient space to grow vibrant flowers and greenery without disrupting your landscaping.
Add a layer of stones on top of the concrete for drainage. Make sure the rock layer sits well above the drainage holes on the sides of the planter. Then, pour in a layer of soil that reaches one to two inches below the top of the planter.
Transplant grown flowers into the planter, or use seeds to start from scratch.
Attach the Hook Screws
Use hook screws to hold the string lights in place. Attach one hook screw an inch from the top of each post.
Hang the String Lights
It’s finally time to hang the string lights! Start with the planter closest to a power source. You may need to use an extension cord to keep light bulbs off of the ground.
Hang the string lights without the bulbs from the hook screws, creating your own pattern as you go from planter to planter. Screw in the lightbulbs after the cords are secure on the hooks to prevent glass bulbs from shattering.
Consider using a small zip tie around the light cord and hook screw to keep the lights secure in place, even on windy days.
DIY Planter Post FAQs
We have the answers to your most common DIY planter post questions.
Are there other ways to hang string lights outdoors without using planters?
Yes, there are other ways to hang string lights without using planters. Options include:
With a nail gun or screw hooks between trees
Securing the 4x4 posts directly into the ground
Hanging underneath a pergola
What’s the best type of string lights to use outdoors?
The most common type of outdoor string lights are industrial string lights, also referred to as bistro or cafe lights. Just ensure they’re labeled “for outdoor use” before purchasing.
How do I change a blown string light?
Most packages of string lights come with one or two replacement bulbs. Simply twist the blown bulb counterclockwise (left) to remove it from the light socket. Twist the replacement bulb clockwise (right) into the socket.
Exterior lighting services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
5.0★ avg. • 3 total reviews
- Jeff B.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon Mitigation - Emily W.
I am highly satisfied with the window replacement service I received; the professionals from Savvy Exteriors were punctual and did an amazing job that exceeded my expectations.
Savvy Exteriors - Ernesto A.
Our exterior looks brand new thanks to Custom Paint Jobs LLC. Theyre the best in town!
Custom Paint Jobs, LLC - Lauren R.
The Mosby team went above and beyond for my project. They not only installed my light fixture; they also worked through an old, wonky, and as it turns out incorrect wiring issue from the work of prior contractors. Professional, thorough, conscientious, and kind. Five star experience. Thank you!
Mosby Electric - Locke M.
We had a 20+ year old landscape lighting system that needed replacement. Midwest Lightscapes worked with us to design a much improved lighting system, lighting the exterior of the house and the back yard. Installation of the 45 light system took one and one-half days, and went very smoothly....
Midwest Lightscapes - Stephen D.
Jeff was a consummate professional. Responsive, courteous, and focused on meeting our needs. I had a small project of installing and replacing two ceiling light fixtures. He responded to my Home Advisory inquiry within 24 hours and in a span of two weeks our light fixtures were installed. ...
- John E.
A team of 2 spent 5 hours, cleaning top to bottom (removed all light fixture and cleaned.... impressive!!!)
Luzia's Cleaning - Jessica E.
It went very well. I was able to select the color blocks I wanted and where they would be placed in the window. All of the employees were very pleasant and patient. The guys who installed the window arrived promptly, did their job, and there was nothing for me to clean up. The window looks...
Innovate Home Org - Columbus Glass Block - Robb B.
Charlie recommended a separate fan with new lighting to clear steam from the room better. Several weeks ago I contacted Charlie via email to ask about pricing and scheduling, after one follow up he did reply with cost and said it would be about two weeks before he could do the work. I replied...
Settle Muter Electric - Michael L.
I would recommend Danny's pro painters to anyone. I found Danny on Angie's List and arranged a meeting for an estimate the same week. Estimator arrived on time and provided a timely quote with a breakdown of the job. Danny's crew arrived on time on the scheduled start date and started working...
Danny's Pro Painters LLC
The homeowners guide to exterior lighting services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A deck can be the central spot for your outdoor gatherings, so keep the event going into the evening. Check out some deck lighting ideas to elevate the space.
Using solar lights in landscaping depends on what you’re looking for. It can be hard to settle on one with all the trends out there. Here are some ideas to help illuminate your yard.
You can choose from many types of porch lights. This guide breaks down some of the more popular options for lights and what you need to know about them.
There’s more than one right way to put lights on a Christmas tree and the best options might surprise you.
Looking to put up a show-stopping Christmas light display this holiday season? Learn more about the types of Christmas lights to make your home shine.