Decorative Planters: Styles and Materials

Tips for selecting planters that complement your garden and furniture

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When it comes to elevating your garden or patio, decorative planters can do more than hold your plants—they become part of the design. The right planter brings structure, style, and cohesion to your space, transforming even the simplest greenery into a statement.

Whether you're working with a balcony, backyard, or front porch, this guide will help you choose planters that complement your plants, furniture, and overall outdoor aesthetic.

🌿 Why Decorative Planters Matter

Think of planters as your garden's accessories. They:

• Highlight the beauty of your plants

• Define space and add height or contrast

• Coordinate with furniture and color schemes

• Allow flexibility with layout and mobility

From sleek modern pots to rustic containers full of character, the possibilities are endless.

🪴 Common Planter Materials (Pros + Cons)

1. Terracotta

• Classic, earthy appearance

• Porous—great for plants that prefer dry soil (like herbs or succulents)

• Can crack in freezing temperatures

• Requires sealing or winter storage in cold climates

✅ Best for: Mediterranean gardens, cottage style, potted herbs

We love terra-cotta and the look is top notch for those Mediterranean Gardens but cracking is always an issue. We love PSW brand pots because they are terra-cotta look but made with up-cycled materials and are much more durable and look amazing.

1. PSW Pot Collection TD25TC - https://amzn.to/4nYjZhz

2. PSW Pot Collection YB41TCB - https://amzn.to/4h03QFj

3. Arcadia Garden Products PSW TA25TC - https://amzn.to/3KLDJWJ

2. Ceramic (Glazed)

• Bright, colorful finishes add charm

• Heavy and durable

• Not always frost-proof

• May require drainage hole drilling

✅ Best for: Statement pieces, patios, covered porches

Some of our favorites are:

1. Reactive Glaze Peacock Color 11" Ceramic Plant Pot - https://amzn.to/4o0VZtE

2. Treasures Of Morocco Flower Pot Moroccan Spanish Garden - https://amzn.to/3WxHqSp

3. Plastic or Resin

• Lightweight and affordable

• Available in many styles and colors

• UV-resistant versions hold up well outdoors

• Less breathable than natural materials

✅ Best for: Balconies, renters, budget-conscious gardeners

We love the PSW brand mentioned above, these pots check both categories and we absolutely love them around our yard.

4. Metal (Steel, Aluminum, Zinc)

• Sleek and modern; often used in contemporary designs

• Durable but can heat up quickly in full sun

• Some metals may rust over time

✅ Best for: Urban patios, minimalist or industrial looks

We do love these in more contemporary gardens and they definitely have a time and place. They do get very hot when in the direct sun so please keep that in mind when planting. We typically use metal for quick garden beds when you don't want to fuss with building with wood. They are ultra durable and will withstand the test of time.

1. Large Outdoor Co-rten Steel Flower Pots (perfect for the front porch) - https://amzn.to/4pWXkmY

2. Co rten Steel Planter 36X15X15 inch Large Rectangular Planter Box - https://amzn.to/48fPkqV

3. GADI Raised Garden Bed Kit - https://amzn.to/439Gx6i

5. Wood

• Natural and warm aesthetic

• Pairs well with outdoor furniture

• Needs sealing to prevent rot

• Can be heavy depending on size and construction

✅ Best for: Raised beds, rustic gardens, porch displays

We recommend DIYing and building your own but if you aren't handy or don't have the tools these fit the bill.

1. Idzo Set of 2 Hardwood Outdoor Flower Box, Durable Acacia Wood - https://amzn.to/46F3Qar

2. IDZO Wooden Window Box 40 in - https://amzn.to/474SbAS

6. Concrete or Fiberstone

• Very sturdy and weather-resistant

• Neutral tones fit most styles

• Extremely heavy—best for permanent placements

• May need a dolly or stand for mobility

✅ Best for: Large statement planters, modern or formal gardens

These make the absolute best water features, and I know that isn't our current topic but please keep this in mind and see our water feature blog. These are amazing in style because they give that rustic European vibe without the cost of real stone.

1. Worth 9 Gallon Tall Round Planters Set of 2 - https://amzn.to/42rOx2u

2. Kante 20",16.5",13.4" Dia Round Concrete Planters - https://amzn.to/4o8067e

🎨 Choosing a Style That Fits Your Space

Consider Your Garden’s Aesthetic:

• Modern/Minimal: Sleek shapes, neutral or monochrome colors, matte finishes

• Cottage/Core: Weathered terracotta, painted ceramics, floral motifs

• Boho/Natural: Woven baskets (lined), raw clay, earthy tones

• Formal/Classic: Urns, symmetrical shapes, stone textures

Match or Complement Furniture:

• Coordinate with furniture finishes (wood, metal, wicker)

• Repeat accent colors from cushions, umbrellas, or rugs

• Use planters to soften edges or create visual flow

💡 Tip: Use varying sizes and shapes to add height and dimension to seating areas or corners.

🌼 Tips for Styling Decorative Planters

• Group in threes for a balanced, curated look

• Mix textures (e.g., a rough concrete pot with soft foliage)

• Add plant stands to elevate small pots and create visual layers

• Use the thriller-filler-spiller method for larger containers (one tall plant, one bushy, one trailing)

🧼 Care and Maintenance Notes

• Ensure proper drainage—either built-in or with added holes

• Place trays or saucers under indoor/outdoor planters to protect surfaces

• Clean planters seasonally to prevent salt or algae buildup

• Re-seal wood or terracotta yearly if exposed to weather

🌸 Final Thoughts

Decorative planters aren’t just practical—they’re part of your outdoor style. By selecting the right material, shape, and design, you can create a cohesive and beautiful space that reflects your personality and supports your plants’ health.

Whether you’re building a balcony jungle or refining your garden’s vibe, the perfect planter is waiting to complete the look.