Quick Links
Shop by Shape
Shop by Bargains
Shop by Price
Shop by Style
|
|

|
| There are many ways
to keep planters in top condition. Since there are a variety
of materials a planter can be built from, the method of preservation
will vary from planter to planter. However, it is imperative
that every planter is: not harboring any pests or diseases,
maintains adequate drainage, and remains structurally sound.
Though the goals are the same, the method to achieve these goals
will vary based on material. |
|
| Wooden Planters: |
|
|
Wooden planters are some of the easiest planters to damage.
Before being used, wooden planters should be lined with black
plastic (with holes in bottom for drainage). Extra rust-proof
nails should be used to reinforce the joints. It is also important
to keep these planters well mulched and on supports to ensure
drainage in wet weather. |
| |
| Fiberglass
Planters: |
Fiberglass planters are among the most durable available today-if
fact, fiberglass is being used to recreate the look of stone,
concrete and wood in a sturdier, longer-lasting material.
To ensure cleanliness around the area of the planter, make
sure there is plenty of cleaning space all around it to sweep
or mop. After all, water drainage and falling leaves are an
inevitable result of potted plants. Though fiberglass is one
of the strongest materials available, it's easy to become
over confident in its dependability. It is extremely important
to repot plants as needed to prevent them from splitting open
the planter.
|
|
| Steel
Planters: |
|
| Steel planters carry a resiliency
and dependability that isn't found in planters made from
lesser-materials. However, steel planters can also be very deceiving.
A steel planter can last a long time if the proper steps are
taken, such as: sandblasting, to remove mill scale; and an iron
phosphate application, for corrosion resistance. Unfortunately,
only the top quality steel planters have gone through these
processes, leaving the remaining steel planters behind to rust
away. Powder coating with either paint or thermoplastic coating
will help maximize the longevity of planters. If left untreated,
these lesser steel planters need to be kept out of the elements-or
risk early and continuous decomposition. A stain, paint or waterproofing
agent must be immediately applied to preserve the life of these
steel planters. |
| |
| Concrete
Planters: |
| |
| Concrete planters
are strong, dependable, and extremely heavy. Though wonderful
for traffic control and security; concrete planters are so heavy,
they can't be moved by hand. Instead, machinery must be
brought in to relocate the planters; making the planter, and
the surrounding property, more susceptible to damage. Also,
if iron enriched water is used to water the vegetation inside
the planters, it can cause rust stains anywhere the water touches.
This causes lasting problems because most rust stain removers
are hazardous to plant-life; meaning the plant must be completely
removed in order to clean the planter. |
|
| Recycled Plastic Planters: |
|
| Though recycled plastic planters
are the most durable planters available, they still require
maintenance if they are to retain their beauty. If recycled
plastic planters are to be reused, it is important to clean
them out with soapy water and bleach before a new plant is put
inside. If the recycled plastic planters are out of use, and
storing is necessary, make certain the planters are kept in
a dry, protected place until needed again. |
| |
|
|
|