Simona is an interior design and décor writer for Homedit. Since 2011, she has been writing about interior design, DIY solutions, and the latest trends in home architecture.
It’s easy to get confused when shopping for planters or containers for your garden. Container gardening is not easy since there are many different types and a variety of materials to choose from and they have their own set of pros and cons to consider. So how do you make a decision? Well, there are a few points to consider such as price, Eco-friendliness, style, longevity and size. The material from which the planter is made tends to be the main element which influences such as decision so let’s have a look at a few options before exploring the subject any further.
Metal containers
One of the best things about metal planters is that they’re very durable and don’t chip, crack or break. This makes them really great for the garden. However, they provide little insulation and heat up rapidly so keep that in mind especially if you want to place them in direct sunlight. Most metal planters get more beautiful over time, aging with a nice patina. This makes them very attractive and wonderful decorations for the garden. Keep in mind, however, that metal is a non-porous material so drainage can be a problem in some cases.
Wood planters
There’s a great flexibility associated with wooden planters in general. They can be easily made to size and can either be store-bought or built at home. They provide good insulation and they’re quite cheap compared to other types. However, some pests mat take up residence inside so keep that in mind. You also need to be careful when watering the plants since too much moisture can cause the wood to rot. Lift up the planters from the ground to provide adequate drainage. Wooden planters withstand cold really well and are also durable and good-looking, often adding a nice rustic touch to the décor.
Stone and concrete containers
Natural stone planters and garden containers are always full of character. Stone and rocks always bring uniqueness to a design. Such planters provide great insulation and last for a very long time. Their solid bodies make them stand out in a simple and natural way. A lot of such planters are made from a combination of limestone and fiberglass for a more lightweight and waterproof construction. Stone containers can be quite expensive and sometimes cheaper alternatives become available, these being made of faux stone and more lightweight.
Terracotta pots
Even though they are very popular and probably the most commonly used type of planters, terracotta pots also come with a whole list of disadvantages. They don’t usually provide adequate drainage for the planters and they cheap and crack easily. They also retain heat for long periods of time which is not always beneficial for the plants. In addition, if you have the plants placed directly in a terracotta pot, it will most likely stain the planter. They absorb mineral salts from soil and water and this causes unaesthetic stains on the exterior. Even so, they are very affordable and really easy to customize using paint.
Porcelain and other contemporary options
One of the problems with porcelain planters used outdoors is the fact that they can easily crack when the soil freezes or expands so keep that in mind especially if you’re living in a zone with cold weather. Porcelain planters, like the ones made of concrete or terracotta, draw moisture from the soil and dry out more quickly than other types. This means that the plants require more frequent watering. They can also require more maintenance than others. An advantage is the fact that they’re available in a large variety of colors and in lots of interesting shapes and sizes.