Planters are available in an amazing range of sizes, shapes, materials and styles. Common planter styles include pots, window boxes and large indoor and outdoor containers of many different shapes. Some of the most popular types of planters include ceramic, terra cotta, wrought iron, resin, wicker, metal and wood.
Teak and cedar are two woods typically used for planters as they both tend to resist warping and cracking. Cedar has a reddish hue to it while teak is a more yellowish brown. Both woods are strong, durable and easy to care for because they don't need protective coatings. Cedar contains naturally protective oils, but may splinter if dirt becomes lodged in the wood. The easiest way to prevent this is to clean cedar planters regularly with a garden hose.
Wicker planters are lightweight and often inexpensive. They can be painted or left natural in color. Many wicker planters have a pot-shaped container on top of a stand. Resin planters are made from polyresin plastic and may be made to resemble stone or terracotta clay. A resin planter is usually durable, affordable and created to handle harsh weather conditions.
Galvanized steel planters are popular for their versatility since they can complement many different decor styles. For example, galvanized steel window boxes with embossed floral designs can be a great choice for a country look, while plain, sleek steel planters fit in well with more contemporary decors. The cool silver color of galvanized steel can make an interesting contrast to any natural wood tone in floors, tables and cabinets.
Wrought iron planters often have an airy, curvy appearance, yet are very sturdy. A wrought iron planter may have a ring on top of a stand made to insert a plant pot. Other types of wrought iron planters may just have a flat surface on which to rest a pot. Wrought iron planters usually look elegant and coordinate well with iron patio furniture.
Terracotta pots in the familiar orange-brown clay are a classic look. Terracotta pocket planters, or strawberry pots, have many openings to hold an assortment of small plants. Ceramic planters are available in many different colors, designs and finishes. Hanging ceramic pots are often used both indoors and outdoors to hold trailing plants.