The 12 Best Outdoor Planters for Every Style and Budget

Best Overall

Robert Allen Avery Classic Ironstone Flower Pot

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

This pot looks like ceramic, but it's lighter, so it's easy to move around.

Keep in Mind

It's not suitable for larger plants.

This Robert Allen glazed ironstone planter offers the upscale style of ceramic pots, but is half the weight and much more durable. The break-resistant material won't dent, and it’s rust-resistant. It’s created by three layers of high-quality paint that have been baked after each layer.

Even better, the planter has foam on the bottom to ensure it doesn’t scratch your floors or outdoor surfaces. It also comes with a drainage hole with a removable plug, so it can work well for both indoors and outdoors.

At roughly 8 inches in diameter, it isn’t suitable for larger plants, but will be sufficient for small- or medium-sized plants.

Best Metal

The Home Depot Metal Box Square Planter

Credit: The Home Depot

Why You Should Get It

This planter is a great choice for contemporary-style outdoor living areas and can be left outside in all types of weather.

Keep in Mind

All sizes are the same height, so you can't create a varied look with several planters.

This metal box planter brings a contemporary flair to patios and decks—or it can be paired with a matching container to make a grand statement on both sides of the front door. At 30 inches tall, it serves as a stylish pedestal for eye-catching plants or topiaries.

It’s made from thick-gauge galvanized steel, which resists cracks and rust. The planter comes with a removable shelf, so you can place a smaller planter inside rather than filling the planter completely with dirt. It also comes with an optional drainage hole so you can ensure excess water drains out if you prefer.

A long 38-inch wide planter is also available if you want to mix and match different sizes, but keep in mind that all sizes are the same height. Like a few other planters on our list, this one is heavy at 35 pounds, so you may want to place it in a somewhat permanent location. Luckily, it can be left outside year-round.

Best Concrete

Kante Concrete Tall Planter

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

The contemporary planter doubles as a striking garden sculpture.

Keep in Mind

It’s heavier than other materials like resin or plastic.

A concrete finish and gentle curves give the Kante planter a modern sculptural look that promises to upgrade any outdoor living area. It’s made of a lightweight concrete, which combines the concrete and weather-resistant fiberglass, so it can stand up well to all types of weather.

Although it’s lighter than standard concrete, it’s heavier than planters made from other materials, such as plastic, fiberglass, or ironstone. It won’t easily be tipped over, but it can still be moved after planting if needed. The planter includes a drainage hole and a rubber plug, so it can be used both inside and out.

Product Details: Best For: Creating a modern sculptural look | Material: Concrete, fiberglass | Weight: 18.7 lbs. | Dimensions: 17 x 21.7 x 17 in. | Colors: Charcoal, dark gray, iron oxide, natural concrete, pure white, weathered concrete | Drainage Hole: Yes

Best Fiberglass

Allen + Roth Fiberglass Self-Watering Planter

Credit: Lowe's

Why You Should Get It

The lightweight fiberglass makes it easy to move between locations.

Keep in Mind

It’s not a great option for shorter plants.

This planter from Allen + Roth has the substantial look of stone or concrete, but since it’s made of fiberglass, it’s significantly lighter than those materials. This makes it especially portable—even once it has a plant in it, it’s still easy to move around your yard.

It’s self-watering, with a handy drainage hole to keep water flowing smoothly. While it only comes in one color, we think the washed white is timeless and versatile enough to suit any space.

The urn shape has a classy, decorative appearance. We love the botanical detailing, which makes it perfect to display in your garden or line your front door. Just note that, with a height of 26 inches, it’s better suited for displaying vertical plants that’ll pour over the top.

Best Large

PolyStone Milan Tall Trough Planter

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

This tall planter offers a great way to lend privacy to an outdoor living area and can be left outside all year.

Keep in Mind

Because of its size and weight, it may be difficult to move without help.

Fill the PolyStone planter with flowers, herbs, or foliage plants and use it to add privacy to a deck or patio. It looks and feels like stone, but it weighs much less since it’s made from a composite material. You can leave the planter outside all year, as it’s safe in temperatures as low as -30 degrees and as high as 150 degrees.

It’s also resistant to mold, mildew, stains, and salt spray. An insulated core helps protect plant roots from temperature fluctuations, and three drainage holes with exit channels help remove any excess water.

The planter features a contemporary look and is available in an array of colors to match any decor. Since it is longer than most outdoor planters on our list, it may be awkward to move around, so you may want to decide on a permanent location for it before planting.

Product Details: Best For: Creating a private outdoor space | Material: Composite | Weight: 27 lbs. | Dimensions: 46 x 19 x 17 in. | Colors: Concrete gray, white, black, chocolate brown, greige, slate gray, gray granite, sandstone granite, white granite, black granite | Drainage Hole: Yes

Best Hanging

Veradek Mason Series Hanging Kona Bowl Planter

Credit: AllModern

Why You Should Get It

The hanging design adds visual interest to your yard or patio, especially if you have vertical space to spare.

Keep in Mind

The hanging length isn’t adjustable.

If you’re short on surface area, hanging baskets let you show off your plants by utilizing vertical space. This planter comes with steel S-hooks and sturdy cables, so you’ll have everything you need to hang it over your patio. Just note that the height is fixed.

Made from plastic-stone composite, this planter can withstand even the most extreme weather. It’s crack and fade-resistant and holds up in temperatures between -20°F and 120°F, making it versatile enough for any environment. Plus, it has drainage holes to prevent overwatering.

It comes in five neutral colors—black, espresso, gray, sand, and white—so it’s easy to match your outdoor aesthetic. The simple, round design and subtle texture give it a modern vibe. Buy one as a focal point or opt for a set of two for a more cohesive look.

Best Wood

Sunnydaze Slatted Rectangular Wood Box

Credit: Lowe's

Why You Should Get It

The removable inserts with preplaced drainage holes make it easy to repot plants.

Keep in Mind

They’re only available in one size (a capacity of 3.7 gallons).

If you're looking for a stylish addition to your entryway, consider the Sunnydaze planter box. The outer planter features slats of acacia wood held together with industrial accents, while the insert is a lightweight plastic liner that’s removable for easier planting.

This feature is also handy when it comes to dumping and cleaning in between seasons; all you’ll have to do is give the planter a good rinse with the hose. For proper drainage, it comes with leveling feet, so you don’t have to worry about water soaking more in one corner than the other.

We appreciate that the design is weather- and rust-resistant, reinforced with powder-coated metal. Since this is a free-standing box, it would be easy to dress up a patio, deck, or backyard. That said, it only comes in one size that holds 3.7 gallons.

Best for Herbs

VegTrug Herb Garden

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

Separate compartments make it easy to grow multiple herbs in one spot.

Keep in Mind

If you only grow one or two herbs, this planter may be larger than you need.

The VegTruck herb garden includes eight lined planting compartments so you can grow herbs and keep all your plants organized. These separate compartments also make it easier to add herbs at different times without disturbing the roots of the existing herbs.

At 32 inches tall, it brings the workspace up to a comfortable level, reducing the need for bending and kneeling. The wood is treated with a water-based, food-safe preservative. We love that the planter includes a slatted shelf for storage below the planting compartments, so you can easily store your watering can or potting soil.

It’s available in several finishes, so you can choose the color that best matches your patio decor. It takes up more space on a deck or patio than a standard pot, so it may be too much for some, but it’s the best outdoor planter if you want to grow a flavorful herb garden.

Best for Vegetables

Vivosun Fabric Grow Bags

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

Fabric pots can help boost air circulation and drainage for vegetable plants, and these have reinforced handles so you can easily move them if needed.

Keep in Mind

They’re not the most stylish choice of planter.

Fabric pots are one of the best options for growing container vegetables. They increase air circulation to the plant and provide drainage (extra water can pass through the fabric, so you don’t need a drainage hole).

The Vivosun pots are made from nonwoven, BPA-free fabric, with reinforced handles to make it easier to move them if needed. The set comes with five 3-gallon pots, which are big enough for many vegetable plants.

Although they are not the most stylish option, they are extremely practical and will help make your vegetable gardening endeavors a success. At the end of the season, you can just clean these planters out and fold them up for easy storage in your outdoor shed or garage.

Best Terra-cotta

Rejuvenation Rejuvenation Antique Terracotta Planter

Credit: Rejuvenation

Why You Should Get It

It has the ventilation benefits of terracotta with a more upscale appearance.

Keep in Mind

The antique patina may not suit a more modern style.

Terracotta is a classic planter choice—its porous design helps promote airflow, while the drainage hole at the bottom helps prevent pooling to keep roots from overwatering. That said, the basic terracotta look isn’t for everyone.

Luckily, Rejuvenation’s Antique Terracotta Planter provides an elegant spin on the traditional clay material. There are three colors to choose from—terracotta, charcoal, and portobello—all of which have a vintage finish.

While the antique design won’t be everyone’s taste, we love its elevated, luxurious feel. It comes in five sizes, starting at just under 7 inches to about 18 inches in diameter and height. This means, even if you have a mix of smaller and larger plants, you’ll be able to display them all cohesively.

Best Self-Watering

Lechuza Canto Cube Self-Watering Planter

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

It includes a drainage plug to remove excess water after it rains.

Keep in Mind

It's only available in two colors.

If you tend to forget to water your plants or regularly go on vacation, a self-watering planter may be a great fit for your outdoor space. The Lechuza planter includes both a built-in water level indicator, which lets you easily see when it's time to water, and a drainage plug to remove any excess, which may be necessary after rainfall.

The planter is made of rust- and fade-resistant resin that has a woven look for added style. Plus, a removable liner allows for easy cleaning and repotting when necessary. The planter is 25 pounds, and its cube shape will help prevent it from becoming top-heavy and tipping over in strong winds.

Keep in mind, this planter is only available in gray or a lighter sand brown color, so it may not be an ideal pick if you're looking to add color to your patio. The planter is made of rust- and fade-resistant resin featuring a speckled stone look for added style.

Best Budget

Better Homes & Gardens Charlotte Planter

Credit: Walmart

Why You Should Get It

The neutral hues make this planter stylish yet subtle, blending in well with outdoor décor.

Keep in Mind

It’s very small, so it’s ideal to use on tables or smaller areas.

Not all good planters have to break the bank. That’s why we love the Better Homes & Gardens Charlotte Planter—it comes at a reasonable price without skimping on quality. In fact, a two-pack is just $22.

Considering the price, we can’t believe how stylish it is. We love the neutral white-and-beige combo, which adds a light, natural touch to any outdoor space. The glaze adds an earthy touch, offering a nice contrast to the textured bottom.

Measuring 7 inches in diameter and just over 4 inches in height, this planter is a great vessel for small houseplants that live indoors during the winter and outdoors in summer. The ceramic material is built to last, and the small drainage hole helps prevent overwatering.

We chose the Robert Allen Avery Classic Ironstone Metal Planter Flower Pot as the overall best outdoor planter because we love that it is lightweight and rust-resistant, and it has non-slip feet on the bottom. If your decor leans towards a more contemporary or modern aesthetic, the Kante planter can double as a striking garden sculpture with its gentle curves and concrete finish.
Planters that come in a range of sizes allow you to create visual interest while still maintaining a cohesive look that complements the aesthetics of your outdoor space.

What to Know About Outdoor Planters Before Shopping

Material

In general, the various outdoor planter materials perform similarly, so your choice will be largely based on personal preference regarding planter design, weight, durability, and placement. For instance, will you be moving it between indoor and outdoor spaces, or will the planter stay in more or less a permanent location, such as in the case of a large planter flanking an entryway or used to create a private outdoor space?

Glazed clay planters can help retain more moisture in the soil than unglazed terra-cotta and offer eye-catching colors and designs. However, they can be broken more easily than plastic, resin, or fiberglass pots if knocked over. Plus, large ceramic pots tend to be heavier than other materials, making them less than ideal for those with mobility issues.

As you’re considering options, think about whether you need a material that is lightweight or one that can stay out during cold weather. “Metal can withstand cold temperatures; however, some metals are prone to rust if not properly treated or coated with protective finishes,” Spoonemore says.

Other planters, such as terra-cotta pots, should never be left outside when temperatures get below freezing. “Terracotta or clay planters should not be left out in winter as they will eventually expand and crack with repeated freezing and thawing,” Spoonemore says.

Size

The size you choose depends on the size of your garden, the types of plants you’re growing, and, of course, personal preference. You’ll also want to consider how much your plants are likely to grow and choose a planter that will accommodate their future growth. Some plants need more space to spread out, while other plants, such as herbs and annuals, can do just fine in small planters.

The PolyStone Milan Tall Modern Rectangular Trough Planter is 46 inches long, 17 inches deep, and 19 inches tall, offering abundant space for plants to grow.

Drainage

Drainage is essential to avoid water pooling in the bottom of the container and causing your plant’s roots to rot. All planters, particularly orchid pots, should have drainage holes, except for fabric pots, which will allow the water to drain since the material is porous itself. “If it doesn’t have drainage holes, you can drill or punch them using a drill or a hammer and a nail,” Spoonemore says.

Your Questions, Answered

What planter materials are UV- and frost-resistant?

Planters made of fiberglass, heavy-duty resins, composites, and concrete are the best choices for UV and frost resistance. However, remember that water-soaked or unsealed concrete planters may crack in extreme freezing and thawing cycles. If you want a metal planter for year-round outdoor use, consider galvanized steel or aluminum.

Can I safely move a heavy outdoor planter?

Outdoor planters, even if made from plastic or resin, can quickly become heavy with moist soil and plants, making it difficult to safely move them without causing injury or breakage. Larger ceramic planters may weigh at least a couple of hundred pounds when filled.

However, many taller, modern planters have shallow pans to accommodate dirt and plants, so you don't have to fill up the entire column with soil, making it easier to move. If your planter is not already placed on a dolly with casters for mobility, consider using a hand truck of the type typically used to move furniture and heavy boxes.

How do I safely create drainage holes?

As mentioned above, you can create a drainage hole in the bottom of a planter that does not have one, but consider the planter's material before you start. Typically, you can use a drill to make one or more holes that are between 1/4 and 1/2 inch in diameter.

Ceramic pots need a diamond bit, terra cotta pots require a masonry bit, and for metal planters, use a metal drill bit. For plastic planters, tap out a hole by gently hammering a nail or screwdriver into the planter's bottom. Go slowly to prevent cracking. Small pots need fewer holes while larger pots require multiple holes.

What is an interior liner and do I need one for my outdoor planters?

An interior liner is typically a plastic or fabric barrier inside the planter that prevents dirt and plants from coming into contact with the planter. It is an optional feature available on some planters.

A liner can be beneficial: it protects the planter's interior from rotting, helps retain water in the soil, insulates roots, and keeps little pests or weeds from infiltrating the bottom of the planter. However, liners should have drainage holes to keep roots healthy.

If the planter does not come with a liner, you can buy one separately or create one from materials such as landscape fabric.

Who We Are

Renee Freemon Mulvihill is a writer who specializes in home and garden topics. To write this article, she researched the advantages and disadvantages of various types of outdoor planters and talked to Carrie Spoonemore, co-creator of Park Seed’s From Seed to Spoon app, about her experiences and thoughts about different types of materials used for outdoor planters.

This article was most recently updated by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Better Homes & Gardens with over two years of experience writing home and lifestyle shopping roundups.