IKEA’s 2-in-1 Plant Stand Doubles as a Raised Garden Bed – and It’s a Game-Changer for Small Patios and Balconies

This is a great find for displaying pot plants vertically

Garden seat surrounded by container plants, green backdrop
(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs)

I love filling my small patio with containers, creating lush planting around my outdoor seating area. The only problem? It's filling up fast. That's why I use plant stands to save some space and create a tiered, vertical display – and my latest find is perhaps the most versatile option I've found.

The IKEA HATTHOLMEN plant stand is unlike any other design I've seen. It doubles as a raised garden bed, but has segmented planting pockets, which also allow for plant pots to be neatly displayed. Plus, the shelf beneath maximizes room for containers, or you can use it for storage.

The fact its constructed of eucalyptus wood also gives it an expensive feel, ideal for elevating your outdoor growing space. I'm glad I spotted it now, too, as it's currently 20% off. Getting it set up now will give me the perfect foundation for an abundant patio container display this summer.

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IKEA HATTHOLMEN plant stand

(Image credit: IKEA)

There are so many elements that draw me to the IKEA HATTHOLMEN plant stand.

I love the fact that it takes the form of other raised bed planters, but uniquely has a grid feature. Not only does this make it easy to create the look of an abundant flower bed, by holding up to eight pots in a neat formation, but you can also plant directly into it.

The grid actually helps with spacing (similar to square foot gardening), so you know all of your crops and flowers have sufficient growing room.

The lower shelf also offers another tier for containers to be displayed, elevated off the ground for drainage. Or, if you're really tight for room, you can use it as a potting shelf or for storing pots, compost, and tools.

The reviews reveal shoppers who have already purchased it are pleased:

'This sturdy planter is simple to assemble,' one person writes. 'It offers a solution for bringing the herb garden high enough for limited motion access.'

Having your crops and herbs at a raised level does reduce fatigue, as you don't have to bend down to harvest.

The one thing to note about the IKEA HATTHOLMEN plant stand is the price. At $299, it is a little expensive compared to alternative raised bed planters (like this wooden one from Amazon).

But, for me, the fact that it doubles as a plant stand, has the different segments to hold pots, as well as an extra shelf, makes it worth the investment.

Plus, it will last for many years, constructed from beautiful eucalyptus wood with a stained finish that will elevate any outdoor space.

'Reasonably priced and looks great,' another shopper agrees.

And while it's discounted to $239.99, I'm wasting no time in getting it to spruce up my patio in time for summer hosting.

What to Shop


Using plant stands for a vertical garden is an easy way to maximize your outdoor space. You can also use trellises and grow climbers up a pergola. Our guide to living walls might inspire you to create a DIY vertical garden feature in your yard.

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Tenielle Jordison
Gardens Content Editor

Tenielle is a Gardens Content Editor at Homes & Gardens. She holds a qualification in MA Magazine Journalism and has over six years of journalistic experience. Before coming to Homes & Gardens, Tenielle was in the editorial department at the Royal Horticultural Society and worked on The Garden magazine. As our in-house houseplant expert, Tenielle writes on a range of solutions to houseplant problems, as well as other 'how to' guides, inspiring garden projects, and the latest gardening news. When she isn't writing, Tenielle can be found propagating her ever-growing collection of indoor plants, helping others overcome common houseplant pests and diseases, volunteering at a local gardening club, and attending gardening workshops, like a composting masterclass.