Metal planters are a stylish and contemporary way to display plants on a deck, patio, porch, or other outside area. These decorative planters come in the form of pots, or as wall hangers, window boxes, and hanging baskets. These beautiful containers are typically composed of bronze, wrought iron, brass, cast aluminum, stainless steel, copper, or zinc.

As mentioned above, metal planters come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. For plants that will be moved throughout the season, lighter metals, such as cast aluminum and copper, should be chosen. This will enable plants to be moved throughout the yard to locations with more or less sun, as needed. Additionally, this allows increased flexibility when decorating for outdoor entertaining. Heavier metals should be reserved for those planters containing more stationary plants, such as shrubs and small trees.

Metal planters are typically used as "cache pots." This means that plants are actually planted in plastic or resin pots which are stored in the decorative metal planter. If a plant potted in a plastic container is too small to fit in a decorative pot, two plastic pots are typically utilized. The first, empty, pot is stored bottom down in the decorative pot, while the potted plant is placed on top. Utilizing this technique, it is possible to "grow into" a decorative pot. Using a metal planter as a cache pot also allows for the ability to change out plants as the seasons change.

There are many advantages to using metal planters in an outside landscape. In addition to the beautiful style added, they are sturdy and will not crack, chip, or break. Another advantage to using these decorative pots in your yard or garden is the effect that aging has on appearance. Although weather affects the appearance of metal, it will not fade in color like plastic does. Metal changes in color and texture as it ages, providing a new look in a garden year after year. Weathering simply enhances the beauty of metal. Sturdy metals are also an excellent choice to store plants located in driveways or other busy areas. Where plastic or clay would break in response to wear and tear, metal holds up.

Although these beautiful containers are a flexible and useful addition to any outdoor landscape, it is important that the right pot is utilized for the right location. Delicate plants should not be placed in direct sunlight if it is a very dry area. The metal will heat up in the direct sun, drying the plant out. As previously noted, it is also important to ensure that heavier metals are only used with stationary plants. Wetter areas of the country should consider coating metal containers with a rust inhibitor.

Metal planters provide a modern and beautiful touch to a patio, garden, or porch. As long as care is taken when choosing the material and style, these planters will provide a useful, sturdy, and long-lived addition to any landscape.