Planters

Modern Outdoor Planters: All You Need to Know!

Outdoor planters are a perfect way to bring style to outdoor spaces and give them a sleek look. Exterior planters have been around for centuries, but today, they offer much more than just a beautiful aesthetic. Modern outdoor planters come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors which is why it should be easy to find outdoor pots that perfectly suit your outdoor area. From the definition of different types to how to select the right one for your space, this article will explore all the important aspects of modern outdoor planters.

What Are Outdoor Planters?

Exterior planters are containers specifically designed to house plants outdoors. They come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, such as wood, metal, plastic, or ceramic. These outdoor pots can create beautiful spaces, bringing life and color to any garden or patio. Not only are they great for creating a green area with a collection of plants, but with these patio planters, you can also divide and define your outdoor spaces according to your liking.

Common Types of Outdoor Plant Containers

Exterior planters are a great way to add structure and design to outdoor areas. Here are some types of modern outdoor planters to consider for your use.

Plant Stands

First on our list are plant stands which offer a convenient way to display different plants and flowers in a more decorative and organized way. They help prevent damage caused by extreme weather and are a great way to ensure your plants receive the right amount of sunlight. Plant stands can create a focal point on your patio. With the help of these stands you can make the most out of limited outdoor space. The best part is that they can easily be moved around to accommodate different plants. Since plant stands come in various styles and materials, you will be able to find something that is a perfect match for your garden. If you want something compact, you should have a look at SOLY outdoor planters. It comes with three tiers and is also foldable.

Hanging Pots

Hanging pots allows more plants to be added to an area without taking up much space. You can hang your plants wherever you want like trees, walls, fences, balconies, etc. Hanging pots come in many different sizes and colors and can add a unique flair to your outdoor space. Hanging pots can also create a vertical garden, freeing up more ground space for other uses. They are also great for growing herbs, succulents, and other small plants.

Self-Watering Planters

Small self-watering planters are convenient, space-saving gardening solutions that can help keep plants healthier and require less maintenance. They typically consist of a plastic or ceramic pot with a water reservoir at the bottom, connected to the soil above via a wicking material like nylon cord or felt. The wicking material slowly draws water from the reservoir and into the soil, providing the plants with a steady moisture supply. Some self-watering planters come with an irrigation system that automatically adds water to the reservoir as needed, for example, the SOLY Backyard thin square self-watering planter.

Things to consider when buying outdoor planters

Size & Material

Consider the size of the outdoor planters you need and the size of the plants you plan to put in them. The size of exterior planters determines the amount of soil and water necessary to adequately provide the roots of a plant with the nutrients and moisture they need to grow. The size of the patio planters will affect the amount of air circulation around the roots and the amount of sunlight the plant can access. Outdoor pots that are too small may limit the potential growth of a plant, while patio planters that are too large can cause root rot and other problems. The material of a planter affects the health and longevity of the plants. Different materials can absorb and retain different amounts of moisture, let in different amounts of light, and provide different levels of protection from the elements. Depending on the type of plant, some materials may be better suited than others. For example, porous materials like terra cotta may be better for plants that need lots of air circulation. In comparison, more air-tight materials like plastic may be better suited for plants that need more humidity.

Drainage

The drainage of a modern outdoor planter is important because it allows excess water to escape and not cause root rot in the plants. Poor drainage can also lead to waterlogging, stunting plants' growth. Allowing excess water to drain away will help to prevent diseases and pests from developing in the soil. Good drainage also ensures that oxygen is circulated in the soil, which helps to promote healthy root growth and healthy plants. Make sure the modern outdoor planter you choose has adequate drainage. This will help ensure the health of your plants.

Cost

Outdoor planters come in various prices so consider your budget when deciding. If the planter is too expensive, it could strain your finances, while buying a cheaper option might mean it needs to be replaced sooner. We advise you to weigh up the cost of the outdoor planters against its quality and durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you put at the bottom of an outdoor planter?

For the bottom of an outdoor planter, you can use a layer of drainage material such as gravel, broken pottery shards, or foam peanuts. This will help the soil to drain and prevent root rot. You can also use a layer of landscape fabric to line the bottom of the planter and prevent soil from washing out.

If you want to save a few dollars, you can also use coffee grounds or eggshells for drainage. Additionally, you can add a layer of activated charcoal to the bottom of the planter to help with drainage and absorb any excess moisture.

What planters can be left out in winter?

While not all planters can be left out in the winter, some are well suited for extreme weather conditions like those made out of ceramic, plastic, or metal. However, if you use metal planters, cover them with a waterproof cover or tarp to protect them from rust.

Additionally, ensure any planters you leave outside are frost-resistant and can handle the winter weather. You can keep your outdoor planters looking great during winter with some care and protection.

Do outdoor planters need holes at the bottom?

Yes, because those holes help with drainage. Plants need space to spread their roots or else they rot.

Is it OK to put Styrofoam at the bottom of a planter?

No, putting Styrofoam at the bottom of an outdoor planter is not recommended. Styrofoam does not provide any nutrients to the soil, instead it can cause drainage problems. It breaks down over time and can become hazardous to plants. You should always use soil or gravel as they provide adequate drainage and ensure that plants can get the minerals they need.