Pots & Planters

Planter Boxes and Garden Planters for Outdoor Growing

Planter boxes provide dedicated growing space for flowers, herbs and vegetables in gardens, patios and other outdoor areas. Options include wooden planter boxes, galvanised steel raised garden beds, elevated planters and designs with integrated trellises. The main differences are the planting depth, materials, drainage system and whether the planter has an enclosed or open bottom.

Garden Planter Boxes for Patios and Small Spaces

Freestanding garden planter boxes are useful for growing plants where an existing flower bed is unavailable. Enclosed containers can be placed on suitable hard surfaces, provided they have adequate drainage and the surface can support their filled weight. Compact designs can accommodate herbs, flowers and other plants with appropriate root requirements.

For smaller outdoor spaces, the Outsunny set of two raised plastic planter boxes with a self-watering design provides individual planting containers with an integrated water reservoir system. Check the planting capacity and water requirements of the intended plants before choosing.

Galvanised Steel Raised Garden Beds

Metal raised garden beds create defined planting areas for growing vegetables, herbs and flowers. Galvanised steel designs are available in different rectangular and square layouts, with some models featuring open bottoms that allow roots to grow into the soil beneath.

The Outsunny galvanised steel raised garden bed with an open bottom measures 120 x 60 x 30.5 cm. For planting in separate areas, the Outsunny set of two square galvanised raised garden beds offers two open-bottom growing spaces.

Open-bottom raised beds are generally intended for positioning over suitable garden soil rather than directly on a solid patio. Consider the condition of the ground, the space available for access and the soil requirements of your plants.

Wooden Planter Boxes and Elevated Garden Planters

Wooden planter boxes offer a natural appearance for garden and patio planting. Some have enclosed planting compartments raised on legs, while others use a frame positioned closer to the ground. Elevated designs can make it easier to reach plants without bending as far, although the actual working height varies by product.

The Outsunny elevated wooden planter box with a greenhouse cover combines a raised planting area with a protective cover for growing suitable plants. When comparing wooden garden planters, check the planting depth, drainage arrangement and maintenance requirements.

Trellis Planters for Climbing Plants

Trellis planter boxes combine a planting container with a supporting frame for suitable climbing plants. They can be used for ornamental climbers or supported vegetables, depending on the plant's growing requirements and the strength of the structure.

The Outsunny wooden trellis planter with wheels combines a planting box with a vertical support frame. For spaces where wall installation is suitable, the Outsunny wall-mounted wooden planter with three movable boxes provides a different planting arrangement.

How to Choose the Right Garden Planter Box

Planter Size, Soil Depth and Planting Space

Choose a planter based on the mature size and root system of the plants you intend to grow. Herbs and compact flowers may suit smaller containers, while larger vegetables and plants with extensive root systems need more growing space. Compare the internal planting dimensions rather than relying only on the overall exterior measurements.

For long rectangular garden planter boxes, consider whether you can comfortably reach the planting area for watering, weeding and harvesting. Leave enough room around the planter for regular maintenance.

Open-Bottom vs Enclosed Planter Boxes

• Open-bottom planters: Allow direct contact with the ground beneath and can provide additional root-growing space in suitable garden soil.
• Enclosed planter boxes: Hold planting soil within a defined container and can be used on appropriate patios or other hard surfaces when adequate drainage is provided.
• Elevated planters: Raise the planting area above ground level, making them useful where a more accessible working height is preferred.
• Self-watering planters: Include a water reservoir or related system, although watering and monitoring are still necessary.

Wood, Metal or Plastic Garden Planters?

Galvanised steel planter boxes provide a defined growing structure and are commonly used for outdoor raised beds. Wooden planters offer a traditional appearance but may require maintenance as the material is exposed to moisture and weather. Plastic planters can be comparatively lightweight when empty and are available in different shapes and planting configurations.

Always compare material thickness, drainage features, assembly requirements and the intended outdoor conditions rather than choosing by appearance alone.

Drainage and Outdoor Positioning

Drainage is important for preventing excess water from collecting around plant roots. Open-bottom raised beds allow water to pass into the underlying ground, while enclosed planters require appropriate drainage holes or systems.

Consider sunlight, wind exposure and the weight of a planter filled with moist soil. Balconies and raised terraces require particular care because large filled planter boxes can be heavy. Confirm that the installation surface can safely support the intended load.

Frequently Asked Questions About Planter Boxes

What is the difference between a planter box and a raised garden bed?

A planter box is a container designed to hold soil and plants. A raised garden bed creates an elevated planting area, often with an open bottom allowing roots to grow into the ground. However, product naming can overlap, so check whether the individual design has an enclosed base.

Are open-bottom planters better for growing vegetables?

Open-bottom planters can be suitable for vegetables that benefit from access to the underlying soil, provided the ground is healthy and has suitable drainage. Enclosed planter boxes can also support vegetable growing when they provide enough soil volume, nutrients, water and root space.

Can planter boxes be placed on a patio?

Yes, enclosed planter boxes with suitable drainage can be placed on appropriate patio surfaces. Open-bottom raised beds are generally better suited to soil-based locations unless a suitable base or planting system is provided. Check the filled weight and protect the surface where necessary.

What can I grow in garden planter boxes?

Garden planter boxes can accommodate herbs, flowers, salad leaves and other suitable vegetables. The best choice depends on available sunlight, soil depth, drainage and the mature size of each plant. Larger crops generally require more growing space than compact herbs or seasonal flowers.

Do galvanised steel raised garden beds need a liner?

Not necessarily. Many open-bottom galvanised steel raised beds are intended to be filled directly with suitable soil over garden ground. Whether a liner is appropriate depends on the product instructions, the underlying surface and the intended planting method.

How do I choose between wooden and metal planter boxes?

Consider the planter's dimensions, construction, appearance and maintenance needs. Wooden planters can complement natural garden settings, while galvanised metal raised beds offer an alternative construction for outdoor growing. Check the drainage arrangement and material specifications of each product.

Can I grow climbing plants in a planter box?

Yes, provided the planter offers sufficient growing space and a suitable support structure. Trellis planters can support climbing varieties, but the frame must be appropriate for the mature weight and growth pattern of the plants.

For related planting equipment and display options, browse Garden Planters & Stands.