How to choose planters and pots: material, weight and size
Choosing planters and pots starts from where you are going to put them. For gardens, squares and public areas, concrete and reconstituted stone are suitable, being heavy and stable: the weights given in the collection go up to 168 kg. For balconies and terraces a lightweight material such as resin or polypropylene is better, with weights even under 20 kg. Always check the weight when full of wet soil.
The types
- Reconstituted stone and concrete planters: square, rectangular or low shapes, with finishes such as rock, river gravel or marble pattern. Example: the Roccia Gran Paradiso Bonfante garden planter.
- Pots: round or bowl-shaped containers, such as the Hawaii reconstituted stone pot or the bowl pot.
- Resin and plastic planters: lighter, suitable for terraces, balconies and indoors. The brands featured include Keter, Vigor and Verdelook.
- Screening planters: planters that, as the name says, also serve to screen the view.
- Iron flower stands: iron supports for pots and plants.
- Artificial grass and accessories: the collection also contains artificial grass, such as the Hermes with a 50 mm pile height, and furnishing accessories. They are not containers: they serve to complete the green space.
How to choose by job
| Use | Recommended type | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Square, pavement, public area | Concrete or reconstituted stone planter | Heavy, hard to move, stands up to the outdoors. |
| Private garden | Reconstituted stone or decorative pot | More refined finishes, suited to being on view. |
| Terrace or balcony | Resin or polypropylene | Lightweight, reduces the load on the structure. |
| Indoors or office entrance | Round pot or low planter | Easier to move and to clean. |
| Separating spaces or screening the view | Screening planter or long rectangular planter | Long and tall, it acts as a divider. |
The features to look at
Material. Reconstituted stone, concrete, resin, polypropylene, plastic. The mineral ones are heavy and stay put; the plastic ones can be moved and lifted by one person.
Weight. In the collection the weights given range from about 19 to 168 kg. The weight on the data sheet is that of the container: add soil and water, which weigh much more.
Dimensions. You will find sizes from 34 × 34 × 23 cm up to 120 × 120 × 65 cm, with heights ranging from 24 to 65 cm and over. For the roots, the usable depth counts: a shrub or a plant that stays for years needs more than a seasonal flowering plant.
Finish and colour. Washed, rock, bush-hammered, glossy, woven wicker. White, grey, pink and silver are some of the colours. Outdoors, choose a finish that hides dirt.
Drainage holes. They are needed to prevent standing water. Check that they are there and not blocked.
How to position them. Put the planter on a flat, load-bearing base. Spread a layer of drainage material on the bottom, fill with suitable compost and keep the holes clear. If the planter is concrete, choose the spot before filling it: it is handled empty and with lifting equipment, not by hand.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting the weight when full. On terraces and balconies it is the first problem.
- Choosing only for looks. A lightweight material in a windy spot will tip over.
- Taking a container that is too small. The soil dries out quickly and the roots suffer.
- Blocking the drainage holes. Water collects and the roots rot.
- Moving a full concrete planter. It is handled empty and with lifting equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Concrete or resin: which is better?
Concrete and reconstituted stone are heavier and more stable; resin is lighter and easier to move. For terraces and balconies resin reduces the load.
How do I work out the right size?
Look at the space available and at the plant: large plants need a deep container.
Are drainage holes always needed?
Yes, for live plants. Allow for it on indoor models too, by using a saucer.
Can I ask for a quote for several planters, for a public area?
Yes: we sell by quotation only. Give the AMES technicians the models and quantities.
What do I put at the bottom?
A layer of drainage material, for example expanded clay or gravel, under the compost: excess water drains out through the holes.
You will find all the models in the Planters and pots collection: ask the AMES technicians for a quote or for advice.
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