Metal Planters ~ country copper to sophisticated zinc

Metal planters are durable and often increase in beauty as they age. Whether you love the rich color of copper or the strong industrial look of steel or cast iron—the one characteristic that sets metal planters apart from others is the beauty that aging can add to the surface color and texture of the planters. Zinc planters are currently very popular as they add a dramatic, often contemporary, style to any outdoor decor.

From year to year, as your planters age, you will find they can take on a completely different look—providing a new look for plantings and groupings.

Metal garden planters are often used as 'cache pots'—decorative containers which hold a planted plastic or resin pot. If you have tall or over-sized planters that you don't want to fill with soil, insert an inexpensive plastic planters turned upside down, then add your planted container. You may still want to ensure the metal cache pot has a drainage hole, so excess water doesn't pool at the bottom.

Characteristics of Metal Outdoor Planters

Benefits:

• will not chip, crack or break
• most metal planters often gain beautiful color, or patina, as they age
• heavy cast iron is a good choice for planters in public areas such as driveways and front yards

Considerations:

• metal planters can really heat up in strong sun which rapidly dries the soil and can damage roots
• are non-porous, making addition of adequate drainage holes important
• many are heavy, so consider their weight carefully when planning their location
• in extremely wet regions it is a good idea to coat metal planters with a non-toxic rust inhibitor

METAL PLANTERS ONLINE

Metal garden planters in iron and copper from Horchow ~
	Copper Column Planters These copper planters provide a strong vertical element in a design plan—welcoming potted trees or showy plants. Included custom inserts create a false bottom, raising plants to an optimal height for display. Watertight; holes may be drilled for direct planting. Smith & Hawken.
	Hampton Copper Planters These handmade copper planters offer a great look at a great price—built to last a lifetime with a hand-fired finish. The hammered copper gives each piece the desired hand-crafted look. This classic copper will patina over time to become a timeless treasure indoors or out. Light weight and solid construction for indoor and outdoor use. Set of two. Yardiac.
	Self-watering Sap Bucket These Vermont-style sap bucket planters are designed to look just like the genuine article—then outfitted with a one-quart self-watering reservoir for healthy flowers. Charming on deck railings or fence posts, brimming with colorful blooms. Include a hole for hanging and a plastic liner. Gardener's Supply Exclusive.
	Diamond-Shaped Hanging Metal Planters A bold departure from conventional hanging containers. Think outside the basket! These handsome iron planters are a great way to grow sedums. But, you can fill them with any trailing plant to bring a lively touch to deck or patio. (They can also sit on any flat surface.) Hanger detaches and bars separate for easy planting. Exclusive at Jackson & Perkins.

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