Many types of large outdoor planters, and this is good because it gives us many alternatives to choose from. The bad thing is that the variety is so wide that it can be a bit complicated to choose the most appropriate container in each case.
When making the decision, we must take into account factors such as the material the pot is made of and how this will affect our plants, the final weight that the container can have once filled with sand, or its aesthetics. To help you choose, today we are going to tell you more about large pots and everything you should consider before buying one.
Types of large outdoor flower pots according to their material
One of the first things we look at when choosing a large container is the material it is made of, and this is a good idea. But we are not going to focus only on aesthetics, because the material with which the container is made has a direct influence on how your plants will be once you install them in it.
Plastic flower pots
When it comes to large flower pots, plastic is a fairly common material because it is very light. The weight will be provided by the substrate we put in and the plant, but the pot itself is very light.
The problem with plastic is that retains a lot of moisture, so it is only a good option if you are going to plant varieties that require always having a moist substrate. On the contrary, if you choose plants that are more resistant to drought, such as succulents, a plastic pot could cause the roots to rot due to excess moisture.
Wooden flower pots
Among the types of large outdoor planters, there is never a shortage of wooden ones. It is a natural and beautiful material that It is much lighter than large clay or terracotta pots. In addition, the wood is treated, so it holds up perfectly to the elements.
The good thing about this material is that it achieves bring a lot of warmth to the environment and also an elegant touch. In fact, it is the ideal planter to put next to the door of the house.
They are normally made from high-resistance woods such as teak, oak or walnut. Although there are large softwood planters, these are less resistant and their use is more recommended for interiors.
Terracotta pots
Terracotta is a classic material when it comes to making pots in different sizes. It has in its favor that it is very porous, which facilitates the evacuation of moisture and aeration of the substrate. Therefore, it is a Good choice for plants that do not need to have a continuously wet substrate.
Fired clay holds up perfectly outdoors, it is one of those pots that can last a lifetime and that withstands the passage of time quite well. The drawback is that terracotta is, in itself, a heavy material, so large pots made of this material can weigh quite a bit when filled with the substrate.
Concrete: among the most common types of large outdoor planters
Concrete planters are a classic in the street furniture. They look like large blocks and, if several are put together, they can create a barrier. At home, you can use them to differentiate spaces within the garden. If you plant varieties that grow vertically in them, you will create an original plant wall.
The concrete is Extremely durable and holds up well outdoors, it is not damaged by sun or rain. Thanks to their large size, these planters are suitable even for medium-sized trees. Additionally, this material is a great option if you want a sober and even minimalist design.
As a drawback, you can imagine that a concrete pot weighs a lot when it is empty, and even more when we fill it with substrate, so It will be difficult to move it from its original location. On the other hand, some pots of this type are purely ornamental and do not have drainage holes.
How to choose between the different types of large outdoor planters?
To make the best choice possible, keep the following aspects in mind:
- Sewer system. If you are going to plant your plants directly in the pot, make sure it has enough drainage holes. In some large pots the holes can be large. If you don't want the substrate to be lost with watering, fill the base with some pebbles. These will allow water filtration and reduce substrate leakage.
- Resistance. Since the planter will be constantly exposed to inclement weather, be sure to choose a material that can withstand frost, humidity, and direct sunlight. As an extra recommendation, avoid glass and metal pots, because they do not withstand heat well and unnecessarily raise the temperature of the plants' roots.
- Mobility. Your idea may be to never move the pot from its place, but sooner or later it may have to be done. For example, if you have to do work in the garden. Therefore, make sure that once full it is not impossible to move. Choose materials that are as light as possible.
- Plants. Take especially into account the variety that you are going to plant in that pot, because characteristics such as the heat that the pot can accumulate, or how the water drains, can directly affect the survival of what you plant.
Choosing the types of large outdoor planters is key when you are designing your garden. Keep in mind what we have seen in this article, and we are sure that you will make the most appropriate decision. We would like to know what your experience has been with this type of planters, which ones are the best for you? You can share it with us through the comments.