Choosing the Right Planter

Planters can liven up a space be it public or private or professional. They can be more than an object used to house plants. In fact, multifunctional planters with integrated benches, lighting or bike racks transform planters from an object into a space where people can interact with one another. Also, planters with automatic watering systems or drainage can help reduce the upkeep of public spaces. Whether you need a planter for a garden, terrace or a public space, this guide will help you find the best one to suit your project.

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How to choose the right planter
STAYCONCRETE Planter with Bench

In order to choose a planter adapted to your needs, you’ll want to consider a variety of important points. You’ll need to identify the purpose of the planter and know where it will be installed. Other criteria include the size and shape of the planter and material choice.
- Purpose and installation
- Size and shape
- Material choice
- Style
What is the purpose of the planter and where will it be installed?

GREENSCREEN Planter With Trellis

The amount of space available, purpose and type of plant will impact your choice of a planter. Planters can be installed in a wide variety of places for decoration or shade, to delimit specific areas or enhance privacy. Long planters for bushes or vines can be used to create space separators for bar and restaurant terraces or between neighboring gardens. Tall trees with large planters can be great in open public spaces to generate shade and can be paired with other furniture such as benches. For outdoor installations, the planter might have to withstand strong weather conditions and require a heavy stable base to avoid toppling over. Creeping plants such as ivy, vines and jasmine need to have the supports necessary to grow such as a trellis.
How do I know what size planter to use?

BELLITALIA – Contemporary Planter

The type of plant you’re planning to display will affect the size of the planter you’ll need to select. If the planter is too small, plant growth will be stunted. If it is too large, the soil might retain too much water which could lead it to rot. Your plant supplier can help you determine the optimal size for the planter, considering how much space the plant will need in order to grow to its full potential. This includes height, diameter and depth. While some herbs and plants can grow in planters with a soil depth and diameter of 10-18” (25-50cm), bushes might need from 16-24”(45-60cm). For small trees, planters with a diameter of around 30” (76cm) and a soil depth of 24-35” (60-90cm) could be required.
What shapes of planters can I choose from?

VONDOM – Rectangular Planter

The most common planter shapes are square, rectangular and round. Square planters have the advantage of being easy to line up with other fittings or furniture. Round planters are better placed alone rather than against walls or other pieces of furniture and can be particularly suitable for trees or bushes in public spaces. Slender rectangular planters with tall plants are ideal for creating privacy or boundaries for restaurant terraces, gardens or public spaces. There are also a number of planters with original shapes that can add individuality to a space.
What planter material options should I consider?
The most common materials used for planters are metal, wood, ceramic, concrete and plastic. While terracotta is one of the most traditional materials used for planters, other materials offer attractive options and have certain advantages. Here are the key features of the most common materials for planters:

STREETPARK Wooden Planter with Bench
- Metal planters are often chosen because they are thin, durable and easy to care for. The weight of your planter will depend on the metal you choose. Planters are available in a variety of metals, ranging from heavy cast iron planters and steel to lightweight aluminum. While they don’t crack, they can dent and can get very hot in direct sunlight.
- Wooden planters add a natural touch to spaces. At times, they’re combined with other materials such as plastic or metal in order to increase longevity and/or avoid damage through rotting, expansion or warping.
- Ceramic and terracotta planters are porous, which helps remove excess moisture, and are quick to dry. This ensures the soil doesn’t retain water for longer than is necessary. In general, they are more wind resistant and help keep plants cooler than plastic planters, but can be prone to cracking.
- Concrete planters are long-lasting and very heavy, which prevents them from being moved or stolen. If they are destined for a roof terrace or balcony, you will need to make sure the ground surface can take the load. Concrete planters might not be suitable for all plants because concrete often contains lime, which could change the pH of the soil.
- Plastic planters are inexpensive and lightweight. They are also available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. However, they can become brittle, discolored or cracked over time.
- Composite planters, such as fiberglass or WPC, can use the advantage of different materials to produce an economical, weather-resistant, durable product, which can imitate heavier or more expensive materials such as concrete, stone or wood.
What should I know about planter styles?

PLUSt COLLECTION Original Design Planter

Matching the style of the planter to its surroundings can add continuity to the overall design of a space. For a historical town center, you might want to consider a classic design in traditional materials such as cast iron or terracotta. For modern spaces, there are a wide variety of contemporary planters on the market. For something discreet, you could opt for a minimalist design. If you are looking for a more eye-catching object, an original design could be your best choice.