Which planters are best for outdoors?
There are a variety of different planters you can use outdoors. The choice between them depends on your own style and preferences. Here are the most popular options:
- Ceramic: Ceramic planters are beautiful options. With a variety of designs and colours available with a stunning glaze, these pots are typically preferred for indoor plants but can be used outdoors. They are sturdy and keep soil moist but can be pricey.
- Terracotta: Terracotta planters are a great choice for people who love neutral colours. One of the key features of this planter is how absorbent it is. The terracotta will soak up water and turn a darker colour, allowing you to read how much moisture is in the soil. However these are quite delicate pots and can crack in colder temperatures.
- Wood: One of the most popular planter materials, wooden planters create a classic look and compliment your plants well. They can be prone to rot and decay, so if this is something you want to avoid, consider teak.
- Plastic: The cheapest pots available, plastic planters are a great option for people on a tight budget. They come in a large variety of shapes and sizes due to their popularity and cheap price, and are very easy to clean. However plastic pots don’t tend to last as long as the alternatives and can discolour and weaken in the sun.
- Metal: Metal planters are a sleek and elegant option that are weather resistant and built to last. Whether you choose aluminium, steel or iron, they will add a modern touch to your garden. They are, however, one of the pricier options.
- Concrete and Stone: These planters are a good choice for outdoors as they can handle varying weather and temperatures. They also come in a large variation of sizes and styles. Concrete planters can be costly but they are great at protecting your plants.
One way you can liven up your garden design is by mixing and matching the different planters you use in your garden. This would allow you to easily vary the colours and shapes without investing in large decorative pieces.
What’s the best way to choose the right planter material for my garden?
If you’re stuck on which material to use for your garden planter, there are several things to consider to help you pick something you’ll love:
- Style: Depending on the design of your garden, there may be certain materials which match your preferences and aesthetic more. If you’re someone who prefers rustic charm, a wooden planter may be more your style compared to modern metal designs.
- Budget: It’s important to look at planters with your budget in mind to make sure you can find a high-quality and affordable option for your garden. It is important to keep in mind that cheaper materials like plastic will not last as long, so consider whether it’s worth making a long term investment into a more durable planter if you can.
- Practicality: Don’t just pick your planter based on its aesthetic appearance - it still needs to be practical for plant growth. Make sure any planter you choose is easy to clean, has drainage holes and will work alongside the gardening accessories you use.
How do I choose the right size planter for my plant?
When finding the right planter size, it’s important to check the roots of your plant. If they are filling out the pot the plant is in, it is time to upgrade the size. Make sure you don’t jump up too many sizes as this can increase your chance of overwatering - make gradual size increases and check roots when you can.
Do outdoor planters need holes in the bottom?
Using a planter with drainage holes is always recommended, whether your planter is outdoors or indoors. This is because if water collects at the bottom of a planter it can cause root rot which is fatal for plants. If you buy a planter without drainage holes, it is advised to drill holes in the bottom. Placing a plastic container at the bottom of your planter is a great way to tidily collect the water draining from your planter.