Outdoor planters

Size and space are the first considerations. Measure your balcony, patio or garden area to determine whether you need compact window boxes for a balcony or larger raised garden beds for a yard. Think about the mature size of your plants; deep planters support vegetables and shrubs, while shallow pots are great for herbs and annual flowers.

Material matters in UK weather. Durable resin and fiberglass offer light weight and resilience to frost, while ceramic and glazed terracotta deliver beauty but can be heavier and more prone to cracking in freezing conditions. Wood planters provide warmth and a natural look but require sealant treatment to resist rain and sun. Consider a mix of materials to balance aesthetics with practicality.

Drainage is essential. Planters with drainage holes prevent waterlogging, support healthy root growth and reduce algae buildup. If you prefer a sleeker look or plan to use them indoors or on balconies, choose self-watering or sealed planters with a drainage plug and compatible saucers to avoid mess.

Weight and mobility matter, especially on decks and balconies. Lightweight resins and plastic composites are easy to move, while concrete, ceramic or thick wood planters add weight and permanence. If you plan to rearrange seasonal displays, consider planters with wheels or hand grips.

Style and color coordination help unify your outdoor spaces. Neutral tones suit urban terraces, while bold hues make a statement in a garden. Many options also come with UV-resistant finishes to maintain color vibrancy after months of sun exposure.

Window boxes are ideal for narrow balconies, letting you grow herbs and trailing flowers without sacrificing floor space. Tall, cylinder or column planters create vertical interest and can serve as privacy screens. Raised garden beds provide generous rooting space for vegetables and perennial blooms, while trough planters offer a linear arrangement perfect for herb grids or flowering perennials.

Self-watering planters are popular for busy gardeners, combining a water reservoir with a wicking system to keep soil consistently moist. Hanging planters bring greenery to walls and fences, freeing ground space for furniture or decor. For a modern look, matte-finish resin pots paired with metal stands offer long-lasting durability and clean lines.

Regular cleaning keeps planters looking fresh. Remove soil buildup, wipe surfaces with a mild detergent and rinse thoroughly to prevent residue that could affect plant health. In winter, protect delicate materials like glazed ceramic by storing or wrapping in frost protection sleeves, or choose frost-resistant options that withstand temperature fluctuations.

Seasonal replanting is part of the joy of outdoor planters. Refresh potting mix annually to maintain drainage and nutrient levels. If you’re using porous materials such as terracotta, consider lining with a root barrier to reduce water loss and extend planter life. Pair planters with suitable saucers to manage drainage and protect outdoor flooring.

Start with measurements of the available space. For a compact balcony, aim for planters with a 20–30 cm depth and 25–40 cm diameter to accommodate herb pots or compact flowering plants. If you’re growing small shrubs or edging plants along the railing, consider taller, narrow planters around 60–90 cm high to maximize vertical interest without crowding floor space. For larger patios, you can mix mid-size pots (30–50 cm) with one or two statement tall planters to frame seating areas.

Yes, drainage holes are important to prevent root rot and waterlogged soil. They allow excess water to escape after rainfall or watering. If you’re using a planter indoors or on surfaces where moisture is a concern, pair planters with a saucer and consider options that come with a plug to temporarily seal drainage when needed. For self-watering designs, drainage is managed differently, but still essential to monitor moisture levels.

In many cases, yes. Self-watering planters maintain soil moisture in the root zone, reducing daily watering, saving time, and supporting consistent growth for herbs, vegetables and flowering plants. They’re particularly useful on sun-exposed balconies or during holidays. Make sure to check the reservoir capacity and use a high-quality potting mix with good water retention. Pair with rainwater harvesting where possible to maximize efficiency.

Resin and fibreglass planters are lightweight, durable, and highly resistant to frost, making them popular in wetter climates. Powder-coated metal options offer modern aesthetics and strong wind resistance when anchored. Wood planters—especially treated timber—provide a natural look but may require sealing or oiling to withstand rain and sun. Terracotta and ceramic look stunning but can crack in cold snaps; use frost-resistant varieties or move them indoors during frost periods for longevity.

Only if they’re specifically designed for outdoor use. Indoor planters without weatherproof coatings may deteriorate quickly in rain and sun. Look for planters labeled as weatherproof or suitable for outdoor use. If you already own indoor pots, consider placing them on a protective tray with drainage inserts, or move them to sheltered areas during harsh weather and bring them back when conditions improve.

Group by height and color to create depth. Place tall planters at the back and shorter pots in front to guide the eye. Mix textures—matte resin with glossy ceramic or rugged timber—to add visual interest. Create focal points with a single large planter surrounded by smaller ones, and use consistent saucers to maintain a neat, cohesive look across paving or decking.

Explore our extensive collection of outdoor planters at Wowcher UK to find the right shapes, sizes and finishes for your space. With durable materials, practical drainage, and stylish designs, you can transform patios, balconies and gardens into vibrant, low-maintenance living spaces that suit every budget.