You’d be amazed how many times cinder blocks have saved my garden plans. Honestly, I didn’t see their potential at first, but once I started, I never looked back.
They’re affordable, sturdy, and you don’t need to be a DIY genius to use them.
I’ve tried all sorts of things with cinder blocks—some flopped, but others became staples in my garden.
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with a pile of blocks, I’m sharing the best ideas I’ve used and loved. Let’s get right into it.
1. Quick-and-Easy Raised Beds
I still remember stacking my first set of cinder blocks for a raised bed. No fancy tools, no instructions—just lining them up and filling with soil.
You get instant results and neat edges. I often tuck flowers or strawberries into the extra holes for a pop of color.
If you’re dealing with rocky or poor soil like I was, this is a simple fix. Raised beds are easier to water, weed, and plant—my back has thanked me ever since.
2. Simple Planter Rows
One spring, I laid out a row of blocks along my fence, filling each hole with trailing plants. It was so easy, and I loved the tidy look.
Planter rows help keep everything organized, especially if you have a narrow space. They’re easy to move if you change your mind.
Succulents, herbs, or even small annuals work great in these rows. I often switch out the plants with the seasons for fresh color.
3. Vertical Herb Garden
I’m always running out of space, so turning blocks on their sides to make a herb wall was a lifesaver. It doesn’t eat up precious ground.
Stack a few blocks, fill the holes with good soil, and plant herbs you use most. I have basil, mint, and chives at arm’s reach now.
This is perfect for small spaces or even patios. I love picking fresh herbs right before dinner, just outside my door.
4. Edging for Flower Beds
My flower beds used to spill soil everywhere until I tried cinder block edging. It’s strong, doesn’t rot, and keeps everything tidy.
You can lay them out straight or curve them for a softer look. I painted mine a pale blue for a cheerful touch.
If you want, fill the block holes with ground covers or marigolds. It adds life and makes the edging feel intentional, not just practical.
5. Outdoor Bench
One weekend, I made a bench by stacking two towers of cinder blocks and sliding in some wood planks. It looked better than I expected.
It’s sturdy, and you can make it as long or short as you like. My kids use it for snacks, and it’s our favorite spot for lemonade breaks.
I tossed on a cushion for comfort. Even after years in the weather, it’s still going strong—no wobbles or splinters.
6. Handy Garden Tool Rack
Before I made this rack, I was forever tripping over rakes. Standing a few blocks upright and slipping tools in the holes fixed that fast.
It keeps shovels and hoes neat and ready. I never lose a tool anymore—everything’s in plain sight.
If your shed is a mess like mine used to be, you’ll appreciate this little hack. It’s so simple, but it works.
7. Fire Pit Circle
One autumn, I built a fire pit with nothing but a ring of cinder blocks. No fancy parts, just a safe spot for marshmallow roasting.
The blocks keep the fire contained, and you can stack them as high as you like. My family loves gathering here on cool evenings.
Just leave gaps for airflow so your fire doesn’t sputter out. It’s a quick project with a big payoff.
8. Garden Table
I needed a potting bench but didn’t want to spend much. Cinder blocks for the legs, a wooden slab on top—done in under an hour.
This table handles dirt, rain, and the weight of heavy pots. I even use it for outdoor snacks when friends come by.
If you want a spot for projects or tea, you’ll love how easy this is to set up—and it won’t wobble or tip.
9. Compost Bin
My first compost bin was just a square of cinder blocks. It sounds plain, but it really works, and you can make it any size.
Leaving a few holes in the blocks lets air in, so everything breaks down faster. My scraps turn to rich soil without fuss.
It’s easy to add or remove blocks as needed, and I don’t worry about rust or rot. The bin just sits there and does its job.
10. Steps or Garden Stairs
Our backyard has a steep patch, so I used cinder blocks as makeshift steps. They made the slope safe without much digging.
Set each block firmly, and fill in with gravel for grip. It’s not fancy, but it beats slipping on wet grass.
My kids run up and down these steps, and I haven’t had a tumble since installing them. It’s a true DIY win.
11. Water Feature Base
I once wanted a birdbath but couldn’t get it level. Three cinder blocks stacked up gave me the perfect, steady base.
You can adjust the height easily, and it holds up in rain and sun. I added some trailing plants around the bottom for charm.
This trick also works for small fountains or even statues. It’s simple, solid, and can be moved if you change your mind.
12. Mini Greenhouse Stand
When I started seedlings, I needed a raised spot with good drainage. A base of cinder blocks topped with a plastic cover did the trick.
It gets the trays off the cold ground and into the sun. Plus, you can hose down the whole setup if it gets messy.
Moving the blocks is easy, too. I rearrange mine every season, depending on where I need more light.
13. Storage Nook
Garden shoes and gloves always got lost until I laid out two blocks by my shed. Each hole became a storage cubby.
Now, muddy boots and small pots have a home. It keeps clutter out of sight but always handy.
It’s such a small thing, but it made my garden routine smoother. Sometimes it’s the simple fixes that stick.
14. Trellis Base
One year, my bean trellis kept tipping over. I anchored it by sliding the pole into a cinder block, then filling with dirt.
No more wobbles or wind drama. The block holds everything steady all season long.
I use the same trick for sunflowers and tall flowers. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done every time.
15. Colorful Plant Stand
I got creative one afternoon and painted a few blocks in pastel colors. Stacked them zigzag, and each level holds a new plant pot.
It brightens up any dull corner, and the colors make me smile. You can switch up the plants with the seasons.
This is a great project with kids, too. Let them pick their favorite colors—it’s fun and adds a little personality to the garden.
16. Bug Hotel
Bugs are a gardener’s friend, so I made a bug hotel by filling cinder block holes with twigs and pinecones. I tucked it behind the shed.
Ladybugs and bees moved in within days. My plants are healthier, and I hardly ever see aphids anymore.
If you’ve never tried this, give it a shot. It’s easy, costs nothing, and helps your whole garden thrive.
Conclusion
Cinder blocks have earned a permanent spot in my gardening toolbox.
I started out just trying to save a little money, but they ended up making my space more practical and personal.
Some of these ideas might sound simple, but sometimes simple is exactly what you need. If you try even one of these projects, I hope you’ll find—like I did—that a few blocks can make a big difference in your garden.
Give it a go and see what you come up with next.