Best Materials for Planters

Usually, at the beginning of choosing plant pots in the UK, people evaluate planters only externally. They choose all the planters that they like and are suitable for decorative properties. Then they filter by size and by cost. They look at the availability and waiting times for the order. At the same time, they very rarely check the technical parameters of the planters from the very beginning further than the street/interior marking. Outdoor planters are a separate category with its own subtleties and nuances.

For example, street glazed ceramics will quietly overwinter outside the city in a snowdrift at subzero temperatures, but will deteriorate in the centre of the metropolis from constant temperature fluctuations above and below zero. Therefore, it is not enough to look at the manufacturer’s labelling (they live and test planters much further south of you).  Ask the seller about the compatibility of the model with your climatic realities.

Rating of the best materials for outdoor planters

1. 3D plastic

This material will suit you if you are not a fan of eco-friendly stuff only. 3D plastic is shockproof, does not scratch, frost-resistant, UV-stable, preserves its appearance. Moreover, it is very light and easy to care.

2. Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a modern formula made from natural ingredients: sand, glass, stone chips, resins. Planters from fiberglass are now made by many brands, so the quality is very different.

Fiberglass preserves the appearance. This is true for glossy product lines. Matte textures can deteriorate if they stand deep in melted snow with salt.

3. Outdoor ceramics and clay

Street ceramics and clay are very durable. Still, at the same time it remains ceramics, if the pot is knocked down and it falls on the ground, hit with heavy furniture or a trolley with suitcases – most likely, there will be a crack. Still, even with it, the planter will serve you for many years. Just turn the damaged side to the facade. You need a very strong blow or a fall from a height to split it into shards.

Such flowerpots are usually heavy, especially with soil and plants. Still, too heavy to lift planters are often created specifically to protect against theft.

4. Ordinary plastic

The quality of such material varies greatly depending on the manufacturer. There are product lines made of recycled raw materials. Some manufacturers conduct research, make discoveries, and test new technologies.

Unfortunately, a low-quality plastic box cracks and deforms from the weight of soil. Bad quality planters burn out in the sun, cover with spots. They often smell unpleasant. It is better to pay a little more and get a set of planters for the terrace and entrance, which will last you at least 10 years.

In addition to the above materials, you can purchase outdoor planters UK made of terracotta and concrete. Unfortunately, there are no major brands that mass-produce planters from these materials and give specific guarantees. Therefore, when choosing, contact professionals in this field.