Replies

1. 
   DavidxDoud | Jun 24, 2004 01:24am | #1

   it'll work for a while - - works easily,  takes paint nicely - - not very rot resistant - - paint inside and outside - - would suggest having some metal boxes bent and then surround them with the painted poplar,  that'll last several years...

   "there's enough for everyone"
2. 
   mike4244 | Jun 24, 2004 01:49am | #2

   NO poplar, cypress ,cedar, much better. Redwood better yet, Ipe probably best. I hate Ipe, had to say it, don't want to go into the many reasons why. You may be able to get enough of any of these woods from deck builders. Most throw away enough to do a flower box on each job.I gave an old timer about 100 lf of mahogany 3" wide from a total of 5 decks. He was thrilled, I got a case of beer from him. Maybe I'll be able to drink that beer next year, on a diet ,still got 35lbs to lose.

   mike

1. 
   tommy2 | Jun 24, 2004 03:06am | #3

   thanks for the reply worked with ipe not bad not as easy as mahogany.

3. 
   JohnWW | Jun 24, 2004 04:41pm | #4

   Most pros stay away from poplar for exterior work, it rots quickly if it gets wet.  The choice of finish won't make much of a difference since no finish, short of fiberglass, is a complete water barrier especially in an application like a flower box.

   Having wood in contact with damp soil is highly conducive to rot, so using a plastic or metal inner box to contain the soil is a good idea.  Most garden centers have an assortment of plastic and metal trays that will work to line a flower box.

   John W.

1. 
   tommy2 | Jun 24, 2004 05:53pm | #5

   thank you for the suggestions i appreciate them

4. 
   bill_1010 | Jun 25, 2004 12:58am | #6

   something like a flower box thats being painted would last longer and need less repainting if its made out of azek or other sythetic decking or trim material. 

   using XIM or other bonding primer it will take and hold paint very well and not rot.