{"id":6755,"date":"2017-01-26T08:40:30","date_gmt":"2017-01-25T22:40:30","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/?p=6755"},"modified":"2025-02-05T13:12:41","modified_gmt":"2025-02-05T03:12:41","slug":"how-to-build-herb-hive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/2017\/01\/26\/how-to-build-herb-hive\/","title":{"rendered":"Decorative Herb Hive: Creative Planters"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"418\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Main-Image-696x418.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6782\" style=\"width:860px;height:516px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Main-Image-696x418.jpg 696w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Main-Image-696x418-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Learn how to build a gorgeous herb hive!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Forget about boring shelves for your herb garden and instead make this gorgeous vertical herb hive planter\u00a0resembling a beehive! It will definitely look better in\u00a0your garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, this <strong>herb hive <\/strong>is\u00a0not a 3D-printed structure but a DIY project designed by the owner-builder himself. You can DIY this herb hive too since he has shared the\u00a0complete step-by-step tutorial which you&#8217;ll find below&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">OK &#8211; we&#8217;ll admit this herb hive&nbsp;requires a little bit of&nbsp;patience and some proper tools to build. But this herb hive is a great project to tackle if you want to improve your woodworking (and math!) skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-8.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6777\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-8.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-8-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now you don&#8217;t be intimidated as the tutorial is detailed,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it should guide you well and make it easy for you to follow. It even includes an explanation of how the owner-builder came up with the measurements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To further make this DIY project easy for you, simply get the same size of pots that he got and follow the measurements indicated in the tutorial! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B076J79DSV?tag=theownebuilne-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"454\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2023\/07\/Self-Watering-Vertical-Planter.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42035\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2023\/07\/Self-Watering-Vertical-Planter.png 1000w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2023\/07\/Self-Watering-Vertical-Planter-768x348.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This herb hive is best mounted&nbsp;on a wall near your kitchen so&nbsp;it&#8217;s easy to get the&nbsp;herbs while you&#8217;re preparing the family&#8217;s meal!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Is this herb hive going to be your next project?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get started on making your own Herb Hive and tell us about it. We&#8217;d love to know what you think about it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Click on any image to start the lightbox display. Use your Esc key to close the lightbox.<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-smiley td-animation-stack-type0-2 td-animation-stack-type0-1\" src=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/wp-includes\/images\/smilies\/icon_cool.gif\" alt=\"8-)\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1246\" data-id=\"6756\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-01.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6756\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-01.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-01-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-01-575x1024.jpg 575w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1246\" data-id=\"6757\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-02.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6757\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-02.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-02-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-02-575x1024.jpg 575w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1246\" data-id=\"6758\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-03.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6758\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-03.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-03-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-03-575x1024.jpg 575w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1246\" data-id=\"6759\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-04.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6759\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-04.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-04-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-04-575x1024.jpg 575w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1246\" data-id=\"6760\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-05.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-05.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-05-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-05-575x1024.jpg 575w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"1246\" data-id=\"6761\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-06.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6761\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-06.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-06-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-06-575x1024.jpg 575w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Building a Herb Hive Planter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You&#8217;ll need these materials:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>25 ft of 3-1\/2&#8243; x 3\/4&#8243; Board<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>70 ft of 2-3\/4&#8243; x 3\/4&#8243; Board<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>21 pcs of 6&#8243; diameter pots<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood Glue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tack Nails<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drywall Screws<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood Putty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paint or Varnish<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>And these tools:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Measuring Tape<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pencil\/Marker<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bandsaw<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Table Saw<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood Clamps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cordless Drill<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sander<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Steps to make a DIY herb hive:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-1-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Understanding the design:<\/strong>&nbsp;I barely understood my own herb hive design at this stage. If my wife was involved in this project she would have been asking all kinds of questions that I wouldn&#8217;t have been able to answer, and I&#8217;m sure the whole project would have turned out more complete, been easier to build, and looked neater come to the finish. However, she wasn&#8217;t &#8211; so I just put it together and dealt with my lack of planning when the herb hive occurred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This herb hive tutorial&nbsp;has been written in some vague logical order, but this isn&#8217;t necessarily easy to visualize. If you are struggling, skip forward to assembly and take a look at the finished object.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-004.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6762\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-004.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-004-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I built this planter by making 21 modules that screwed together to form the beehive shape. Each module was made out of 5 pieces of wood (one upright, and 4 side pieces). For 6&#8243; pots, the sides of the hexes need to be 3.5&#8243; (just take this as read, for now, I&#8217;ll explain why in an appendix-type step). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the widest wood, I had for this herb hive project was 3.5&#8243;, this gave me no margin for any angled cuts on the sides of the uprights. This meant that instead of many 30-degree cuts, I needed to make half as many 60-degree cuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The pots I used are about 5&#8243; tall, so two panels of my thinner stock are sufficient to cover that (2&#215;2.75&#8243; is 5.5&#8243;). The uprights need to be at least 11&#8243; (twice the height of the sides) because the upright will cover two tiers of pots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sides of the herb hive needed to be a parallelogram shape with very sharp angles, to hold the uprights 3.5&#8243; away from each other (see final photo for a view of the final profile). Happily, the lengths here resulted in the modules tilting by 30 degrees from the wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I did some maths (wait until that final step again) and worked out that the overall lengths of these bits would be 6.1&#8243; (seems long, I know). I also wasn&#8217;t sure how I was going to make these angled cuts at this point, so I cut a few 7&#8243; x 2.75&#8243; pieces to test with (I could always cut some more off). I also made a couple of uprights (11&#8243;x3.5&#8243;).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6767\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-2-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Making test cuts and test fitting:<\/strong>&nbsp;It took me a little effort and a few tries to build a sled\/jig I was happy with to produce the cuts I needed repeatably.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-3.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-3-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s essentially a normal crosscut sled, with an upright screwed to it as close to the blade as I could get away with. To use it, I clamped the workpiece between a sacrificial board and the upright. The sacrificial board is to avoid clamp marks on the work piece and to stop it from splintering more than necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-011.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6763\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-011.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-011-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This sled worked admirably, and produced me an angled piece that was about half an inch too long (so I cut the rest of my 2.75&#8243; stock at 6.5&#8243; rather than 7&#8243;) and had a rather useful (if accidental) geometry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My circular saw didn&#8217;t reach all the way through the workpiece and left a lip at the end of the angled cut. This allowed me to repeatably seat all of the modules of the herb hive. A happy accident indeed. Fitting these bits together showed me that the side pieces of the herb hive also protruded past the front of the uprights, so they would need slicing off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6769\" style=\"width:841px;height:505px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-4.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-4-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For each unit of the herb hive, I needed 1 x 11&#8243; by 3.5&#8243; piece, and 4 x angled pieces. Each angled piece started out at 6.5&#8243; by 2.75&#8243;, then two 30-degree angled cuts were made, and then a final cut to make the front angle flush with the level of the upright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-012.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6764\" style=\"width:839px;height:471px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-012.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-012-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Cut, cut, cut&#8230; Sand, sand, sand:<\/strong>&nbsp;This took an age and a half&#8230; easily the longest step in time for building a great herb hive, but there isn&#8217;t too much to say here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-013.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6765\" style=\"width:845px;height:474px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-013.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-013-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I made all of these cuts on my table-saw, with the help of some sleds. This made it quicker and easier than it would otherwise have been to make clean, repeatable, consistent cuts. I only needed to measure once (then cut, and check before doing 80 cuts wrong). You could do these by hand I&#8217;m sure (though I don&#8217;t know how I&#8217;d do the angles).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I also made a good stack of more 6.5&#8243; by 2.75&#8243; pieces than I needed, because I got carried away, but they came in useful later. When you make this many cuts (at least 100 slices, plus 160 angled slices) it&#8217;s easy to become complacent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be careful, be gentle, and be focused. If it&#8217;s getting dark, stop. If you feel thirsty, stop. If you need the loo, stop. Getting it done 5 minutes quicker is no good if you lose a finger. Power tools are dangerous. But to be fair, so are hand tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once all your cuts for the herb hive project are done, clean all those bits of wood up! I knew I was going to paint\/varnish mine, so I wanted a good, smooth finish. Again, it is easy to skin yourself here. Be patient, take your time, and have a cup of tea when you need one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s nice to see the change in the material at this point. The herb hive projects seem to come together for me at this stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Continued Page 2&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--nextpage-->\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-5.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6774\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-5.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-5-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Assembling the body of the hive and adding braces:&nbsp;<\/strong>Each module of the herb hive project was glued up separately, with tack nails to hold them until the glue dried. They were clamped as needed at this stage until dry. Each module was screwed to another with one 25mm drywall screw through each &#8216;side&#8217; piece (a total of 4 screws per module).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-6.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6775\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-6.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-6-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I actually assembled this in stages, assembling half a dozen modules, and then putting them together. Then another half dozen modules, adding to the growing hive. You&#8217;ll need a few clamps here. While I was assembling the body of the herb hive, it struck me that I needed some way to give the units a little more strength and something to give them a bit more shape. So I machined some hexagonal braces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-7.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6776\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-7.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-7-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each brace of the herb hive was made out of a 2.75&#8243; by 6.5&#8243; length of the board and was cut with two 60-degree angles. I also cut a circle out of the inside to allow my pots to sit in them comfortably. These also gave me a handy place to attach a shelf to hold the pots&#8230; These braces are not ideal, because two of the screws to attach them are running in the same direction as the grain. Drilling pilot holes, and going in at an angle here helped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The shelves I used were just extra 6.5&#8243; x 2.75&#8243; pieces screwed up into the braces, though I did attach a block at the back of the shelves to stop the pots from being pushed backwards &#8211; I didn&#8217;t fit them until the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My herb hive is 4 units wide at the widest, and 6 tall. That means that it has 4 modules on the floor, where the uprights needed to be shorter (5.5&#8243; rather than 11&#8243;). I just cut a couple of my uprights in half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-8.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6777\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-8.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-8-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Framing the hive:<\/strong>&nbsp;I tried to keep screws and other fixings to the inside rather than the outside of this because it&#8217;s a nicer finish that way. However, at this point, it was clear to me that the hive was going to be painted. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My wife didn&#8217;t like the mixed wood finish, and it was also clear I was going to need to get the filler out because of warping and differences in thicknesses of the wood I&#8217;d used. From here on, I didn&#8217;t worry too much about where the screws went, as I&#8217;d be using filler anyway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-9.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6778\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-9.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-9-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the herb hive body was complete, it was time to make it look finished, and to square the whole thing up. I cut a length of 2.75&#8243; board for the top, and one for each side then screwed it into the sides from the inside of the modules. The top piece was screwed down into the sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This left lots of gaps, top and sides, which I filled one by one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6779\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10-624x374.jpg 624w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10-50x30.jpg 50w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10-100x60.jpg 100w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-10-600x360.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gaps between pots on the highest layer were covered with half hexes with 30-degree chamfers to give a good fit against the top of the frame. 30-degree triangles cover the edge of the modules, and &#8216;quarter&#8217; hex ledges sit above those triangles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Attaching those took screws all over the place, and gave some more rigidity. I did split the upright of one of the modules while doing this because it was already warped and bowed before assembly. I put some extra braces on the back and got the filler out. My method of attaching the frame here was messy and awkward, and exactly the kind of detail you should plan instead of following my example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I then filled the remaining holes in the sides of each layer with 30-degree angled triangles behind each upright, and short bits of board to cover the backs. These were mostly screwed because I was too impatient for glue at this point. There are still many holes on the undersides, which allow for drainage and airflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, I screwed the aforementioned shelves in (just a bit of board to hold the pots up). Two screws each, from the underside of the shelf into the angled braces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&#8217;re done! Kinda&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-11.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6780\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-11.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-11-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At this point, I got the filler out and spent a long time filling the cracks that opened during the framing out step. If it&#8217;s going to live outdoors, you will want to weatherproof it somehow. I painted mine with masonry paint, which gives a wonderful finish on wood and has good staying power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"420\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-12.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-12.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-Step-12-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember to paint inside and outside, to protect the wood properly, and so that it doesn&#8217;t swell in the rain! When painting, it&#8217;s best to do multiple thin coats, after making sure that the surface is clean. This will give you a nice even drip-free finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-022.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6770\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-022.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-022-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I then attached mine to the wall by screwing some thick batten (more pallet) to the wall and then screwing the hive top and sides to that batten. You could do this with french cleats, or any fixing method you want!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Touch up any paint you need to know that you&#8217;ve fitted it, and fill those holes with plants! I&#8217;ve got half a dozen basil plants, some (half dead) chives, and some strawberries in there at the moment. The weeds in the patio are doing better than my herbs right now&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If anyone makes something like this, I&#8217;d love to see how you got on, and I&#8217;d also love to see how you attach the hive to a frame! I made a mess of it, but I&#8217;m not sure how I&#8217;d do it better!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maths!<\/strong>&nbsp;As promised, some maths here so that you can work out what sizes you need for different sizes of pots. You&#8217;ll have to put up with photos of scribbling here because MS paint is harder than a pen and my phone. Though my phone does struggle to focus without natural light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-023.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6771\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-023.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-023-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A hexagon to hold a 6&#8243; pot needs to be 6&#8243; at the smallest internal dimension (side to side), and we need to know the length of a side. A hexagon can be thought of as 6 equilateral triangles. If the whole is 6&#8243; across, each triangle is 3&#8243; high (red pen). If you cut that triangle in half, you have a right-angled triangle of 3&#8243; on one side (green pen).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-024.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6772\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-024.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-024-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we need to know the length of the hypotenuse (the slanted edge). Trigonometry can tell you this is 3&#8243; divided by sin(60 degrees) (the angle opposite the side we used the length of). This works out as ~3.5&#8243; (3.464101615&#8230;.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-025.jpg\" alt=\"Herb Hive\" class=\"wp-image-6773\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-025.jpg 700w, https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/files\/2017\/01\/Herb-Hive-025-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If it&#8217;s assembled like mine, there also needs to be 3.5&#8243; between where the sides cross over each other and where they meet the uprights. This is a little more painful to work out. I dealt with this by lying to myself, and saying that I just needed 3.5&#8243; plus the angled sections at each end, and adjusting the cut to what made it work (this also contributed to the warping in my planter). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You also need to use trigonometry here. Tan(60) x Wood thickness (0.75&#8243; for me) will give you the length of the angled section of the piece (1.299&#8243;). Double it, and add it to the width of the hex you worked out above. (3.5+1.3+1.3 = 6.1)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I really hope this step helped someone because it was really hard to write. And I still don&#8217;t think I did a good job of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thanks to <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instructables.com\/member\/ratMoose\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"818\">ratMoose<\/a><\/u> for this great project!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Herb Hive Maintenance: Keeping Your Vertical Garden Healthy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-maintained herb hive ensures a thriving, productive garden. Since vertical planters have unique challenges like soil drying out faster and limited root space, proper care is essential. With a few simple maintenance practices, you can keep your herb hive lush and full of fresh, flavorful herbs year-round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Watering Techniques<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vertical planters tend to dry out more quickly than traditional garden beds. To prevent water stress, check soil moisture regularly. Herbs thrive in well-drained soil, so avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. A drip irrigation system or self-watering planters can help maintain consistent moisture levels, especially in warm weather. If watering manually, aim to water in the morning to give plants time to absorb moisture before the sun evaporates it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Soil and Fertilization<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Herbs need nutrient-rich, well-draining soil to grow well in a vertical hive. Use a high-quality potting mix with compost or organic fertilizer to replenish nutrients. Since nutrients wash out faster in vertical planters, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks. Slow-release granular fertilizers are another option for steady feeding. Herbs like basil and parsley benefit from nitrogen-rich fertilizers, while Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and thyme prefer leaner soil with minimal feeding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pruning and Harvesting<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and prevents herbs from becoming leggy. Harvest frequently by trimming herbs just above a set of leaves to promote regrowth. For woody herbs like rosemary and thyme, trim no more than one-third of the plant at a time. Remove any yellowing leaves or spent flowers to redirect energy toward fresh growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Managing Pests and Diseases<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even in a vertical setup, pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can still appear. Regularly inspect leaves for signs of infestation. A strong blast of water or insecticidal soap can help control pests without harming the plants. Fungal diseases, like powdery mildew, can develop in humid conditions. Ensure proper air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and avoiding excessive overhead watering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Rotating and Replacing Plants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Herbs have different growth cycles; some may need replacing after a season. Annual herbs like <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Coriander\">cilantro<\/a> and basil may only last a few months, while perennials like oregano and thyme will continue growing year after year. Rotate herbs as needed and replace any struggling plants to keep your herb hive looking full and productive. Companion planting can also help keep the garden balanced and deter pests naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Seasonal Care<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adjust care routines based on the season. In hot summer, increase watering and provide shade if herbs show signs of heat stress. In winter, move tender herbs indoors or protect from frost. If your herb hive is indoors year-round, ensure the plants get adequate light, either from a sunny window or supplemental grow lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With regular care, an herb hive can provide a fresh supply of herbs while adding beauty to your space. Your vertical garden will stay healthy and productive throughout the year by keeping up with watering, pruning, pest management, and seasonal adjustments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Building a herb hive planter is a rewarding DIY project that maximizes space while providing fresh, homegrown herbs. With proper materials, careful assembly, and regular maintenance, your vertical garden will thrive in any setting. Whether mounted on a wall or placed in a small outdoor space, an herb hive adds both functionality and visual appeal to your gardening efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have more creative planters for your garden. Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/project.theownerbuildernetwork.co\/2020\/09\/04\/quick-and-easy-diy-birdhouse-planter\/\">birdhouse planter project<\/a> next!<br><br><br><br><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Forget about boring shelves for your herb garden and instead make this gorgeous vertical herb hive planter\u00a0resembling a beehive! It will definitely look better in\u00a0your garden. No, this herb hive is\u00a0not a 3D-printed structure but a DIY project designed by the owner-builder himself. You can DIY this herb hive too since he has shared the\u00a0complete [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13557,"featured_media":6782,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_titles_title":"%%post_title%%","_seopress_titles_desc":"A herb hive is a decorative planter where you can grow a wide range of kitchen ingredients. Build this planter with our guide!","_seopress_robots_index":"","_seopress_robots_follow":"","_seopress_robots_imageindex":"","_seopress_robots_snippet":"","_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"none","_seopress_robots_breadcrumbs":"","_seopress_robots_freeze_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_custom_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_canonical":"","_seopress_social_fb_title":"","_seopress_social_fb_desc":"","_seopress_social_fb_img":"","_seopress_social_fb_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_height":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_title":"","_seopress_social_twitter_desc":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_height":0,"_seopress_redirections_value":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled_regex":"","_seopress_redirections_logged_status":"both","_seopress_redirections_param":"","_seopress_redirections_type":301,"_seopress_analysis_target_kw":"herb hive","_seopress_news_disabled":"","_seopress_video_disabled":"","_seopress_video":[],"_seopress_pro_schemas_manual":[],"_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_disable_all":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_disable":[],"_seopress_pro_schemas":[],"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","sma_last_campaign_date":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[340,358,40,292],"class_list":["post-6755","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-gardenening","tag-diy","tag-gardening","tag-planter","tag-space-saving-idea"],"modified_by":"julian","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6755","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13557"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6755"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6755\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6782"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6755"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6755"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theownerbuildernetwork.co\/project\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6755"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}