Choosing guide

Which planter material is right for you?

Material decides how a planter handles weight, weather, and time. Here's how the main options compare, and which fits what you're after.

Tell us about your spot

Climate
Location
Priority
  • Fiberglass

    Light, tough, and frost-safe. The premium all-rounder.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Rooftops, hospitality, large and tall pieces
    Look
    Any finish: matte, gloss, metallic, or faux stone
    Watch out
    Edges can chip; cheap versions crack at the corners
  • Fiberstone

    The look of stone at a fraction of the weight.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    A stone statement on patios and sturdy balconies
    Look
    Natural stone texture, neutral tones
    Watch out
    Edges can chip; more porous than fiberglass
  • HDPE Resin

    The lightest and most freeze-proof. Great value.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Rooftops, self-watering, cold climates, low upkeep
    Look
    Matte solid colours, modern, some stone-look
    Watch out
    Reads less premium; so light it can blow over (add ballast)
  • Corten Steel

    Architectural rust patina that lasts decades.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Modern landscapes, commercial plazas, statement pieces
    Look
    Warm orange-to-brown weathered steel
    Watch out
    Rust runoff stains paving. Not for coastal salt air
  • Powder-Coated Aluminum

    Sleek, rust-proof, and built for the coast.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Coastal sites, rooftops, modern and hospitality
    Look
    Any powder-coat colour, clean modern lines
    Watch out
    Dents on impact; chips need a touch-up
  • Cast Stone / GFRC

    Luxury stone presence; GFRC keeps it lighter.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    High-end, permanent, classic-to-modern installs
    Look
    Carved-stone look, many patinas
    Watch out
    Solid cast stone is very heavy; GFRC is the lighter option
  • Concrete

    Heavy and permanent. Tough at ground level.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Permanent ground-level and windy sites
    Look
    Raw, modern, industrial
    Watch out
    Very heavy (a 24 in. can top 300 lb); seal it in freeze zones
  • Terracotta

    Classic breathable clay for mild climates.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Mediterranean style, hot and dry climates, herbs
    Look
    Warm rustic red clay
    Watch out
    Cracks in freeze-thaw; dries out fast in heat
  • Glazed Ceramic

    Rich glazed colour for statement accents.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Decorative accents, mild climates, covered patios
    Look
    Glossy, vibrant glazes
    Watch out
    Brittle; cracks in a hard freeze if water is trapped
  • Wood (Cedar / Teak)

    Warm natural wood; teak lasts the longest.

    Frost
    Light
    Fade
    Life
    Best for
    Raised beds, natural and rustic gardens, decks
    Look
    Natural grain that silvers over time
    Watch out
    Needs oiling; cedar lasts 10 to 20 years, less in soil contact

A general guide. Exact specs vary by maker and are listed on each product page.