Garden Planters and Flower Containers

Container gardening has become increasingly popular in recent years and the range and availability of containers and planters have also increased. There are containers to suit all gardens and the range available is as varied and diverse as the gardeners themselves. A grouping of pots and urns can add contrast and interest to even the smallest of gardens.

Choosing a Container

When buying garden containers serious thought should be given to each container and a list of mental questions should be gone through – nothing formal or difficult but common sense should be applied.

• Is the container for indoors or outdoors?

• Is it frost proof?

• Will it remain in the same position for years?

• Should it be lightweight? (Plastic)

• Will it rust or decay and possibly need repairs or painting?

• Has it got good drainage?

• Is the color, style and size right for the location?

This list could go on and on but this is just a reminder to keep an open mind on the style and choice of containers before a purchase is made.

Buying a Flower Container

In most instances it is best to buy the container before the plant. This way it can be positioned and repositioned until the perfect spot is found, giving the utmost satisfaction to the scene and the gardener. Large containers, when used on balconies and roof gardens need not be completely filled with soil or compost. The first one-third of these can be filled with polystyrene pellets to keep them lighter. The pellets will also aid with drainage. Always use a saucer to catch excess water.

Terracotta Flower Containers

Terracotta containers have a universal appeal. The color is soothing; they are made from clay and are porous. Being porous makes it almost impossible to over-water plants. They are available as plain, decorated or glazed and come in all shapes and sizes. In areas where they are likely to be exposed to frost make certain to buy a frost proof container. Even with frost proof containers try to protect them from very severe weather conditions. If possible bring indoors or cover the pot with some insulating material like bubble wrap.

Fiberglass Flower Pots

Fiberglass is a good choice. These come in a vast array of styles: Classic urns, Pedestal urns, Squat urns, troughs, pots, swans, old shoes and kettles. The list is endless. These planters are lightweight and durable. Fiberglass can be molded to suit the design so the selection is exhaustive. The natural stone look achieved in the manufacturing process is identical to the real stone originals so each setting will look authentic.

Planting in Stone Urns and Flower Troughs

These are very much appreciated by the connoisseur gardener and are cherished, especially when they have naturalized into the garden setting with a little bit of moss growing through the cracks and crevices. The designs reflect more classic and languid times with trailing ivies and curlicues supporting bunches of grapes held by nymphs and seraphs. Stone containers are perfect for creating a feeling of maturity in a garden.

Wooden Plant Containers

The most classic wooden planter is The Versailles Style Planter. These square wooden planters were first designed for use in The Versailles Palace and are still used there today but also they are available in most garden centers. They are made from teak or pine. Being wood they will need to be treated against the weather. They can also be painted white or any color to suit a particular area.

Plastic Flower Pots and Metal Planters

Terracotta, wooden, stone and fiberglass containers are all available in cunningly designed plastic. Plastic containers are durable, lightweight and financially attractive. Metal containers are available in shapes and sizes to suit the imagination of the designers but these planters will require maintenance.