When it comes to enhancing the ambiance and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor spaces, few things can compare to the charm that well-placed, stylish planters offer. Whether you're looking to adorn your home garden or spruce up the entrance of your business, selecting the right outdoor planters is crucial. However, with so many different types, sizes and styles of planters to choose from, it can be overwhelming to work out how to make the right decision. The good news is that there is no one universal right answer; your choice will merely come down to determining which pot is best suited to each plant. In order to help you with this process, we’ve compiled this handy guide - outlining all of the key points to consider when selecting an appropriate outdoor planter for your beloved plants.
Types of Outdoor Planters
As you’re probably already aware, there are countless types of outdoor planters available on the market, and your choice will really depend on how much time and money you’re looking to invest into your plants, as well as whether the intended pot will be purely decorative or will actually house something living. By making the right choice, your outdoor planter can function as both!
For Growing Plants
It’s recommended that, if you’re opting for real plants over artificial ones, you choose a pot that uses natural materials such as terracotta or stone. These materials are water-permeable, and as such they offer sufficient drainage through evaporation. A good drainage system means that your plants are less susceptible to root rot and ensures that they have the best possible chance to reach their optimal growth potential once repotted outside.
For Decorative Purposes
As mentioned above, ornamental planters can really breathe new life into a garden area, and there are plenty of choices regardless of whether you’re placing natural or artificial plants inside them. Fibreglass is a planter material popular for the extensive range of colours, shapes and sizes available; regardless of what aesthetic you’re cultivating in your outdoor space, there’s bound to be a fibreglass planter to suit your preferences.
On the other hand, if you want a solution that is both stunning and healthy for your plants, simply place the growing pot into a larger, more eye-catching ‘cachepot’ - a decorative pot used to conceal the functional plant pot within that allows you to display your plant in a clean and professional manner. This way, you get the best of both worlds!
Planting on a Hardscape
For planters you intend to place on a hardscape - a patio, balcony or the concourse outside of your office building, for instance - fibreglass planters are a fantastic option. Not only are they extremely durable, but they are also highly weather resistant in hot and cold climates. This means that your fibreglass planter will look great all year round, even in high traffic areas.
Planter Sizes
Your choice of planter size will ultimately come down to the type of plant, the size of your outdoor space and your personal preferences. There are, however, some general rules that you can use to guide your selection.
Firstly, understanding the needs of your plants is essential when selecting the right planter size. Some plants have extensive root systems and require deeper planters, while others thrive in shallow containers. Read up on the specific plant species you intend to grow, taking note of their growth habits, root structures, and mature sizes. This knowledge will help you choose planters that provide sufficient room for your plants to grow and flourish. Even if you are intending on working with artificial plants, these too require certain planter sizes based on their height, so it’s important to do your research.
Weight is also something to consider when choosing an appropriate planter size, as this will naturally impact the planter’s mobility. For example, if you anticipate moving the planters frequently or rearranging your outdoor space, lightweight materials such as fibreglass, plastic or resin might be more suitable. On the other hand, if stability and resistance to wind are important, heavier materials like concrete or stone may be preferable.
Planter Materials
When it comes to outdoor planters, there is a wide variety of materials to choose from, with some of the more popular options including:
- Terracotta/Ceramic: Terracotta or ceramic planters are timeless and provide a classic look. They are made from clay and offer excellent breathability for plants. Terracotta is known for its natural, rustic appearance.
- Fibreglass: As we briefly mentioned above, fibreglass or resin planters are lightweight and durable. They can mimic the look of various materials, such as stone or terracotta, while being more resistant to the elements. Fibreglass planters are highly weather resistant and low-maintenance.
- Metal: Metal planters, including aluminium, steel or iron, offer a sleek and contemporary look. They are durable and can withstand harsh climates. Much like fibreglass, metal planters are also generally low-maintenance and can develop a beautiful patina over time.
- Wood: Wooden planters add a warm and natural aesthetic to outdoor spaces. Woods like cedar, redwood or teak are popular choices due to their natural resistance to rot and insects. Wood is an excellent insulator and provides a stable soil temperature.
- Concrete/Stone: Concrete or stone planters offer durability and a solid, architectural presence. They can withstand extreme temperatures and require minimal maintenance. Concrete and stone planters are heavy and stable in windy conditions.
It's important to consider factors like durability, maintenance requirements, aesthetics, climate compatibility and plant needs when selecting the right material for your outdoor planters
General Decorative Tips for Outdoor Planters
Design Considerations
The style and design of your outdoor space should harmonise with your choice of planters. Consider the overall theme, architecture and ambiance of your home or business premises. If you have a contemporary setting, sleek and modern planters made from materials such as fibreglass or metal can complement the aesthetic. For a more rustic or traditional environment, wooden or terracotta planters may be a better fit. Remember: the right planter should not only support your plants but also enhance the visual appeal of your space.
Create Focal Points
Outdoor planters offer an excellent opportunity to create focal points in your garden or commercial outdoor space. Strategically place large fibreglass planters with eye-catching plants or trees in key areas to draw the eye and create visual interest. Consider using planters of varying heights to add dimension and depth to your garden. By creating focal points, you can guide the flow and attention of your outdoor space, making it more visually appealing.
Play with Groupings and Arrangements
Experimenting with groupings and arrangements of outdoor planters can bring a sense of creativity and uniqueness to your garden. Instead of scattering individual planters randomly, consider grouping them together in clusters or arrangements, as this can create a cohesive and organised look. Mix and match different sizes, shapes and types of planters for added visual interest.
Incorporate Seasonal Plantings
One of the joys of gardening is embracing the changing seasons. Take advantage of outdoor planters to showcase seasonal plantings throughout the year. In spring, fill your planters with colourful flowers or flowering bulbs. In summer, opt for vibrant and lush foliage. During autumn, consider using planters to display ornamental grasses or plants with vibrant fall colours. And in winter, choose plants that can withstand the cold, such as evergreens or winter berries. By rotating your plantings seasonally, you can keep your outdoor space fresh and captivating all year round.
Add Texture and Variety
To create visual interest and depth in your garden, incorporate planters with different textures and plant varieties. Mix planters with smooth finishes with those that have a more textured or patterned surface. Combine plants with various leaf shapes, sizes and colours. Consider using trailing or cascading plants to add a sense of movement and softness. The contrast and diversity of textures and varieties will make your garden visually engaging.
Consider Vertical Gardening
If you have limited space or want to maximise the use of vertical surfaces, vertical gardening with outdoor planters is an excellent option. Choose planters specifically designed for vertical gardening and mount them on walls, fences or trellises. This allows you to grow plants vertically, adding a green backdrop or creating a living wall. Vertical gardening with planters can be particularly effective in small urban gardens or balconies.
Illuminate with Lighting
Don't forget the impact that lighting can have on your outdoor planters and garden. Incorporate lighting features such as spotlights or LED lights to highlight your planters during the evening hours. This not only adds a touch of enchantment but also extends the enjoyment of your garden into the night. Consider placing lights strategically to accentuate the shapes and textures of your planters, creating a magical ambiance.
Shop LivingGreen Design’s Range of Outdoor Planters & Faux Trees Today!
Choosing the right planters is just the beginning of creating a stunning outdoor space at your home or business premises. At LivingGreen Design, we offer a wide selection of professional-grade planters, outdoor furniture, water features, artificial plants and more to suit any taste or requirement. Our expert team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect pieces to transform your outdoor spaces. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create a stunning garden that will leave a lasting impression. Start shopping now and turn your vision into a reality!
