What Kind of Planter Box is Good for You?

[Updated on 1 January 2025] Are you looking to buy a planter box but not sure what kind of planter box to buy? Read this article to help you choose the best planter box. Nothing compares to actual plants, whether you’re decorating indoors or outside. There’s something about plant life and its color and vitality that adds an intangible feeling to any area. You can’t steal the pleasure of plants, but you may change or enhance them depending on the container in which you place them. There are several different planter boxes on the market, and their appearance impacts the look of your outdoor space. If you plan to buy a planter box, you must know which planter box is suitable for your space.

Best Planter Boxes For Your Outdoor Space

Wall Paper Planter Box

Although the wallpapering trend is over, this planter box shape is still one of the most popular. The wallpaper tub that gave it its name is still there, but there are many alternatives on the market today. It is one of my favorite designs because it looks beautiful with flowers or herbs growing in it, and it works well in almost any location.

Two-Tier Planter

This planter is made specifically for plants that like to hang downwards, but you don’t have to use them. The double-decker design provides you with a lot of flexibility in plant selection and design, and it looks great in any space.

Paneled Planter

This paneled planter will provide you with a more traditional look if that’s what you’re searching for. This planter is perfect for the patio or line walkways and entryways with straight lines and a traditional shape.

Hanging Pot Planter

This planter requires a lot of effort, but the results are well worth it. Hanging plants in pots inside a well-designed planter adds beauty to your patio, allows you to select the position of the plant, and creates a creative vase that may be the focal point of your entire outdoor space.

Classic Planter Box

Sometimes, you need an old-fashioned planter box to keep your plants secure and organized. This weekend project isn’t flashy, but it is a great project for those with little experience in woodworking. Plant it in the garden or at the front of the house to add some curb appeal.

There are hundreds of planter designs to select from; these are just a few excellent possibilities. These plans have varying degrees of difficulty, but no one artisan can make it. The essential thing is that you have fun and get rewards for all of your hard work.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Planter Boxes

Material

When selecting a planter box, consider the material it’s made from. Each material has a unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Wood: Wooden planter boxes provide a classic, natural aesthetic and are quite user-friendly. However, keep an eye on them to stop them from rotting or warping, especially if they get wet.
Plastic: Compared to other materials, plastic planters are cost-effective, durable, and lightweight. They are available in different colors and styles, though they might lack the aesthetic charm of natural materials.
Metal: Metal planters are strong and can give your outdoor space a modern vibe. However, they might get hot, which can impact plant roots and rust over time if not treated right.
Terracotta: Terracotta planters are made from fired clay, bringing rustic charm to any space. They’re porous, so they drain well, but they can get heavy and break easily.

Size and Placement

Consider the planter box size in your intended placement space. A sizable planter can serve as a striking focal point, whereas smaller ones can be clustered to enhance visual appeal. Consider the specific necessity of your plants and choose a planter that allows enough space for their roots to grow.

Drainage and Maintenance

Good plant health requires proper drainage. Use a planter box with drainage holes to avoid water pooling and root rot. Additionally, consider how easy the planter will be to maintain. Consider the maintenance requirements of watering, fertilizing, and repotting your plants. Select a design that aligns with your gardening style and maintenance preferences.

Personal Style and Preferences

Ultimately, the perfect planter box for you is one that fits your personal style and goes well with your outdoor area. Whether you’re into sleek and modern vibes or more into rustic and traditional styles, you’ll find a planter box that matches your taste out there. Feel free to try out various styles and materials until you find the ideal match for your home and garden.

Seasonal Considerations

Consider the climate and seasons when choosing a planter box. Certain materials might do better in specific weather, and some plants may do great or not so great, depending on the season. For example, if you live in an area with tough winters, you might want to pick a planter box that can handle freezing temperatures or consider planting cold-resistant types.

Versatility and Multi-functionality

Check out planter boxes that are versatile and multi-functional. Some designs can do double duty, like having built-in seating or storage compartments. These choices really make the most out of small outdoor spaces and offer extra functions besides plant storage.

Environmental Impact

Think about the environmental impact of your planter box choice. Selecting sustainable materials like reclaimed wood or recycled plastic can reduce your ecological footprint. Also, check out planter boxes built to last, so you won’t have to replace them often and can reduce waste.

DIY Options and Customization

If you’re into hands-on projects, trying out some DIY planter box options can be a really satisfying project. Numerous online tutorials offer guidance on making planter boxes with various materials and techniques. DIY projects let you customize to fit your space & style, plus they’re a fun way to get creative & add a personal touch to your outdoor decor.

Accessorizing and Styling

Enhance your planter boxes visual appeal by focusing on accessorizing and styling to elevate their look. Enhance your plant display with decorative elements like trellises, stakes, or hanging hooks for a stylish touch. Experiment with various plant combinations, textures, and colors to craft visually stunning arrangements that showcase your unique aesthetic preferences.

Community and Social Aspects

Consider how your planter boxes can enhance community and foster social connections. Participating in community gardening or sharing plants with neighbors fosters camaraderie and a sense of belonging. Furthermore, hosting gatherings or events focused on gardening can create bonding and learning opportunities within circles of friends and family.

FAQ’s

Q1. How do I choose the right size of the planter box?

When picking a planter box size, think about the plants you want to grow and how many, and also check the space you’ve got in your home or garden. Make sure the planter box has plenty of space for roots to grow and drains well to avoid waterlogging.

Q2. What is the importance of drainage in a planter box?

Good drainage is essential for plant health as it helps avoid waterlogging, which can result in root rot and other diseases. Ensure your planter box has enough drainage holes at the bottom, and think about adding gravel or pebbles to help with drainage.

Q3. Should you waterproof planter boxes?

Waterproofing is essential to prevent water damage, regardless of whether your planter box is crafted from wood, concrete, or any other material. Planter boxes need extra waterproofing compared to most outdoor structures because they have to handle plant watering and rough weather like rain.

Q4. How can I maintain my planter box to prolong its lifespan?

Regular maintenance is crucial for extending your planter box’s lifespan. Make sure to keep the box clean to avoid mold and mildew, and give it a check for any damage now and then. Think about refinishing or sealing wooden planter boxes to keep them safe from the elements.

Q5. What should I put in the bottom of my planter box?

One great option for drainage at the bottom of a planter is using broken pot pieces. You can totally use any old plant pots or chipped crockery for this – just smash them into small to medium-sized pieces. Adding broken pot pieces like this prevents compost loss out of drainage holes.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect planter box is crucial for homeowners who wish to elevate their indoor or outdoor areas with lush greenery. Considering factors like material, size, drainage, location, budget, aesthetics, maintenance, and environmental impact helps you pick the right garden setup to match your style and needs. Choosing the perfect planter box is key! Whether you go for a classic wooden one, a sleek metal design, or a chic ceramic planter, it all comes down to healthier plants and a more visually appealing space in the end. Take time to explore your choices and find the ideal planter box that matches your individual style and gardening aspirations.