Best Finish for Cedar Planter Box | Top 5 Choice in 2024

A handcrafted cedar wood planter box is a stylish and practical addition to any outdoor space, but it’s also a softwood. This means that it’s prone to scratches and dents. So it is easy to squander your planter box if you don’t take proper care of it.

Applying a finish to your cedar planter box will protect it from the components of nature and keep it looking beautiful. When you choose the best finish for cedar planter box, you will have a long-lasting and durable cedar box that will bring you enjoyment.

Whether you use the planter box to add a splash of color or simply as a functional storage solution, the planter box should be finished with a product that will prolong its life and protect it.

Listed here are the top 5 finest finishes for cedar planter boxes that you can select based on your specific requirements & what to consider before buying one.

Best Finish for Cedar Planter Box : Review of Top 5

A sleek and modern cedar farmer box is an attractive way to show off your green thumb. The natural beauty of the wood will complement any plants you choose to put inside, and the simple design makes it a versatile piece that can be used indoors or out.

These boxes are also unfinished, so you can stain or paint them to match your décor. Whether you use it to add a pop of color to your patio or as a rustic centerpiece for your kitchen table, this cedar-raised garden bed is sure to make a statement.

However, before you can enjoy your new western red cedar planter box, you have to finish it. This is a crucial step because it will protect the cedar wood from the elements and extend its life.

The followings are the five best cedar planter box sealer or finish:

01. Furniture Clinic Boiled Linseed Oil

Furniture Clinic oil is splendid for restoring indoor and outdoor wooden furniture finish. The natural formula will help protect and shine the wood while also providing a protective layer against dirt and grime.

Key Features:

• Restore indoor and outdoor wood furniture
• The natural formula protects and shines wood
• Protects against dirt and grime
• Dryes quickly to leave a glossy finish

This high-quality boiled linseed oil has been treated with heat, forming a tough and wear-resistant finish on the wood. It is perfect for protecting and preserving your wooden furniture, and it dries quickly to provide a glossy shine.

The product is non-toxic and easy to use. Also, it is made from the highest-quality linseed oil and can be used on all types of wood except exterior oak. 

This linseed oil forms a subtle, beautiful, glossy finish on wood and helps to protect it from cracks. It is the perfect polish to transform dry, old wood and give it a new lease on life.

Furniture Clinic oil has been evaluated by the Good Housekeeping Institute and found to be of rigorous quality. It can be used on furniture to protect it from scratches and other damage.

Pros:

• High-quality oil
• Boiled linseed oil
• Wear-resistant finish
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Does not work on wicker

Verdict:

Furniture Clinic boiled linseed oil is the immaculate option when you’re looking for oil to help protect your wood furniture and give it a beautiful shine. It’s a natural product that is easy to use and provides excellent results.

02. Howard Products fw0016 Wood Polish & Conditioner

Wood polish and conditioner from Howard Products are an excellent way to restore and protect your wood surfaces. The orange-scented formula leaves a brilliant shine and helps to prevent fading, cracking, and other damage.

Key Features:

• Contains Carnauba Wax and Beeswax for protection
• Conditioning oils help keep wood from drying and fading
• Enhances the appearance and depth of grain in the wood
• Prevents deterioration of the finish

This product is superb for polishing all wood surfaces to give them a soft luster. The protective coating of Carnauba Wax and Beeswax will also help to keep your furniture looking great for longer.

The conditioning oils help keep the wood from drying and fading, and it also helps to keep it looking shiny and new. Additionally, Howard Products wood polish and conditioner is an excellent product for enhancing the natural beauty and depth of finished and unfinished wood grain.

It prevents the deterioration of the finish, all while containing no silicone or linseed oils. Also, it is the perfect follow-up to Restor-A-Finish to maintain the newly restored wood finish.

This product is ideal for anyone who wants to protect and restore the natural beauty of their wood surfaces. It will help keep your furniture and trim looking like new for a longer time.

Pros:

• Orange-scented formula
• Brilliant shine
• No silicone or linseed oils
• Restore-A-Finish

Cons:

• Contains combustible petroleum distillate

Verdict:

So, if you’re interested in a good quality wood polish and conditioner, Howard Products fw0016 wood polish & conditioner would be a good choice. This will help keep your wood surfaces looking new and protect them.

03. Hope’s Pure Tung Oil

Hope’s tung oil is a wonderful way to waterproof your natural wood and finish it with a sealer. You will be left with a beautiful, natural-looking wood protected from the elements.

Key Features:

• Deeply penetrates the wood fibers
• Safe for food contact surfaces
• Perfect for outdoor furniture
• Hand-rubbed finish preferred by craftsmen

This tung oil is a 100% pure natural oil that is easily applied and recognized by craftsmen as the ultimate hand-rubbed finish for fine woods. It is applied in a thin layer and allowed to dry at room temperature.

It penetrates deep into the wood fibers, making it a part of the wood itself. It is a flexible and non-oily solid that cures a hard finish. 

The Hope’s pure oil provides reliable and long-lasting protection against moisture, oil, alcohol, and wear. It is also resistant to everyday wear, making it an ideal choice for protection against the elements.

It is a multi-use solution that can achieve outstanding results on almost any surface to allow the oil to penetrate. This includes new stripped wood, concrete floors, unfinished wood, weathered wood and countertops, and even stone, brick, and cast iron.

This oil is a natural, non-toxic oil perfect for food contact surfaces. It is safe on cutting boards, countertops, wooden bowls, butcher blocks, and wooden utensils.

If you are seeking oil that is moisture-resistant, then this is appropriate for you. Tung oil is known for its water resistance, making it the perfect choice for outdoor furniture.

Pros:

• 100% pure natural oil
• Easy to apply
• Long-lasting protection
• Moisture-resistant

Cons:

• Contains a strong odor

Verdict:

This Hope’s pure tung oil is a great way to protect your wood from the elements. The oil provides reliable protection against moisture and wear. It is also safe to use on food contact surfaces.

04. Sunnyside Pure Raw Linseed Oil

Sunnyside is a quart of raw linseed oil that is pure and has not been mixed with any other substance. It is a natural compound that can be used for many purposes, such as a lubricant, protectant, or even food supplement.

Key Features:

• Protects wood from water damage
• Extends the life of oil-based paints and stains
• Dries slowly to give you time to work it in
• Great for outdoor furniture or items

The oil is 100% pure linseed oil, penetrating deep into the wood to protect and seal it. Also, the oil increases weather resistance, making it the ideal choice for outdoor furniture.

This natural oil can be used to add depth and richness to oil-based paints and stains. It dries slowly, giving you plenty of time to work it in and get the desired effect.

The raw linseed oil is ideal for sealing the wood and protecting it from water damage and nicks. Furthermore, it enhances the lifespan of oil-based paints and stains, giving them a beautiful, protective gloss finish.

This product is appropriate for anyone who wants to preserve their wood and metal tools from the elements. The pure raw linseed oil will help bring out the natural wood grain and shine while also protecting against rust.

Pros:

• Deeply penetrates wood 
• Increases water repellency 
• 100% pure raw linseed oil 
• Prevents water damage

Cons:

• Drying time of four days

Verdict:

To obtain pure raw linseed oil without any impurities, then Sunnyside pure raw linseed oil is a great choice. It is perfect for sealing and protecting wood, metal, and outdoor furniture.

05. Real Milk Paint Tung Oil

The Real Milk Paint oil is flawless for finishing and protecting wood surfaces. It is a food-grade oil that is waterproof and easy to apply. The dark tung oil color will give your wood surfaces a beautiful, natural look.

Key Features:

• Perfect for waterproofing wood
• Dark matte finish with waterproofing
• Heavy metal-free & contain zero VOCs
• Provides a waterproof protective finish

This tung oil is exact for those looking to achieve a dark matte finish on their wooden surfaces. It is 100% pure and provides a waterproof protective finish that will age beautifully over time.

It is a great choice for wood furniture, wood siding, decks, and wood flooring. This tung oil is a food-grade penetrating oil used on wooden kitchen items such as chopping boards. It is also great for concrete and brick.

This product is ASTM quality tested and includes natural resin, which gives it a dark matte color and flexible waterproof finish. Also, it is excellent for waterproofing wood. This is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a safe, eco-friendly option.

It’s a natural, environmentally friendly product that can be used on various surfaces. This product contains zero VOCs, heavy metals, or any additives, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about its impact on the environment.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly
• ASTM quality tested
• Food-grade oil
• Zero VOCs

Cons:

• Not suitable for large horizontal surfaces

Verdict:

When looking for tung oil that is food-grade and easy to use, the Real Milk Paint tung oil is a great choice. This oil is also excellent for waterproofing wood. Plus, it contains no VOCs and no additives.

So these are the top 5 best finishes for cedar planter boxes. They will help protect your cedar planter box and extend its life. Choose the finish that effectively suits your needs and budget. But before you purchase, there are some things you should know about finishes.

Finish for Your Cedar Planter Box – Buying Guide

A beautiful cedar planter box is a perfect way to add a touch of nature to your home décor. This type of planter box is made from durable cedar wood that has been specially treated to resist rot and insect damage.

The wood’s natural grain gives the box a unique look that will complement any style of décor. In addition, cedar is a naturally aromatic wood, so your planter box will have a pleasant smell that will add to the overall ambiance of your home.

When selecting a cedar planter box, be sure to choose one that has been finished with a high-quality sealer. The followings are some considerations that you should take into account before purchasing a cedar planter box:

01. Type of Finish:

To choose the right finish for your planter box, it is vital to consider the kind of finish you want. If you want a natural look, you can choose a sealer or wax.

If you want a more durable finish, you can choose a wood stain or paint. Each type of finish has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is crucial to select the one that best suits your needs.

A natural finish will allow the cedar to age gracefully, while a stain or paint will provide more protection against the elements. Ultimately, the decision of which finish choosing is a matter of personal preference.

02. Ease of Application:

Another critical factor is the ease of application. You want to be sure that you choose a finish that will be easy to apply and result in a smooth, even finish. The type of finish will dictate how it is applied.

Some finishes are applied with a brush, while others can be sprayed on. Consider how easy the finish is to apply before making a decision. If you are not comfortable using a sprayer, choose a brush-on finish.

If you do not mind using a sprayer, either type of finish will work. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Take care when applying the finish, as too much or too little can affect the final product’s look. 

03. Durability of the Finish:

Durability is an essential factor when determining a finish for the cedar planter window box. A durable finish will be able to withstand the elements and last for a long time.

There are a few things to look for when assessing the durability of a finish.

• First, check to see if the finish is weatherproof. This will ensure that it can withstand sun, rain, and snow without peeling or fading.
• Second, consider the abrasion resistance of the finish. This will help to prevent scratches and wear and tear.
• Finally, make sure that the finish is UV-resistant. This will protect the wood from fading and discoloration.

You can choose a durable finish that will last a long time by considering these factors.

04. Shininess:

Consideration should be given to the degree of shine when selecting a finish for a cedar garden box. A high-gloss finish will bring out the wood’s natural grain and add a touch of elegance to the piece.

However, it is essential to note that a lustrous finish will also easily show fingerprints and smudges. If you are looking for a more low-maintenance option, a semi-gloss or satin finish may be better.

These finishes are more forgiving when it comes to imperfections and are easier to clean. The decision of which to finish selecting will be a matter of personal choice.

05. Water Resistance:

The ability to resist water is critical in selecting a finish for a garden box. A water-resistant finish will help protect the wood from moisture and rot, extending the life of the garden box.

There are a variety of finishes available that offer different levels of water resistance, so it is essential to choose one that is appropriate for the location of the planter box.

For example, a planter box placed in a sunny spot will require a different finish than one placed in a shady spot. Water-resistant finishes can be applied using a brush, sprayer, or roller, and they typically dry within 24 hours. 

However, it is essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before applying any type of finish to cedar.

06. UV Protection:

UV rays can damage the wood, causing it to fade, crack, and warp. A finish with UV protection will help to keep the wood looking like new for longer. Several finishes are available with UV protection, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

You may also want to consider a stain or sealer with UV protection for extra protection. By considering UV protection, you can help to assure that your cedar planter box will look great for many years.

07. Toxicity:

While a cedar garden box can add a touch of rustic charm to any garden, it’s essential to examine the toxicity of the finish before making a purchase. Many finishes contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the soil and potentially harm plants.

A natural oil finish is a safer option, as it doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals. However, it will need to be reapplied more often than a synthetic finish. When choosing a finish for your cedar planter, study the toxicity of the product.

08. VOCs:

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals released into the air as gases. These can be found in many everyday products, such as paint, cleaning supplies, and air fresheners.

These are also present in some types of wood finishes. If you are going to finish your cedar planter, it’s essential to consider the VOC content. Some finishes have high VOC levels, contributing to indoor air pollution.

They can cause various health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you’re concerned about VOCs, look for finishes with low or no VOCs. 

These are important things to consider before finishing your cedar planter box. By selecting the right finish, you can help to ensure that your planter box will look great.

FAQs

Let’s discuss some frequently asked questions about cedar wood planter boxes:

01. Should I Seal a Cedar Planter?

Cedar is an excellent material for outdoor furniture, but it requires some maintenance to look aesthetically pleasing. When the planter is exposed to direct sunlight, it can be waterproofed with a waterproofing sealer. The planter does not need to be sealed in sheltered areas, such as a porch.

02. Do You Need to Finish the Cedar Planter?

Some people believe that the cedar planter doesn’t have to be finished. However, finishing a cedar planter will prolong the life of the wood. It will also prevent rot and insect damage. Also, finished cedar planters are easier to clean and maintain. 

03. How Do You Waterproof the Inside of a Cedar Wooden Planter Box?

To waterproof a cedar planter box, you will need to seal the wood with a layer of clear polyurethane. This will create a barrier that will prevent water from penetrating the wood. You may need to reapply the polyurethane every few years.

04. How Do You Keep Wooden Planters From Rotting?

One of the most important things to remember when keeping wooden planters from rotting is ensuring proper drainage. Also, you can line the planter with a layer of plastic inner containers to create a barrier between the wood and the soil. You may consider wood preservatives to prolong the life of the planter.

Conclusion

The cedar planter box is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden. As well as growing plants, it also prevents soil erosion. Furthermore, cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insect damage. As a result, a cedar planter box is a durable and long-lasting investment for any gardener.

The cedar planter box is also easy to assemble and take care of. But it’s imperative to choose the right finish to protect it from the elements. With the best finish for cedar planter boxes with UV protection, non-toxic or free of VOCs, you can ensure your planter box looks excellent.

We hope this article helped guide you to the proper finish for your planter box. Keep in mind the elements that contribute to a good finish for the cedar planter box.