Outdoor Planters

Size in an outdoor planter is mostly a question of proportion. A planter that's too small for a porch or entryway tends to disappear; one that's well-matched to the space anchors it. Larger planters work best where they have room to read as a single piece, flanking an entrance, framing a patio edge, or standing alone near a doorway. Smaller and mid-size planters suit tighter footprints like steps, balconies, and narrow walkways, where a cluster of two or three often reads better than one oversized piece.

At ePlanters, we have outdoor planters in a variety of sizes, from extra large tree containers to small tabletop pots.

Fiberglass offers the most balanced combination of weight and durability. It's light enough to move, and finished to resist fading and cracking through repeated seasons outside.

Metal brings a clean, architectural look with minimal upkeep, though it can retain more heat than other materials in direct sun.

Concrete and glass fiber reinforced concrete deliver the most substantial, grounded presence; GFRC offers the same look at a fraction of the weight.

Plastic resin is the most affordable route to durability, and modern finishes can convincingly read as concrete or terracotta.

Eco-friendly planters made from recycled materials and natural stone are both durable and sustainable. 

Outdoor planters see more sun, more weather, and more years of wear than almost anything else in a space , which makes finish quality part of the design decision, not an afterthought. ePlanters offers 20+ UV resistant and automotive-grade color options, all designed to hold their tone rather than chalk or fade with exposure. For projects with specific brand or design requirements, custom color matching is available through our trade program.

Do outdoor pots need drainage holes?

Yes. Without drainage, water collects at the base of the planter and has nowhere to go, which damages both the planter and whatever's growing in it. In colder climates, standing water that freezes inside a sealed planter can crack it from the inside out. Look for drainage holes, or a design that accommodates them, on anything meant to stay outside year-round. At ePlanters, most of our pots come with drainage holes, and if they don't, we can often add drainage holes for you. 

What's the best material for an outdoor planter?

It depends on the look you're going for and how much exposure the space gets. Fiberglass, metal, and glass fiber reinforced concrete are the most durable options for year-round outdoor use; plastic resin is the most affordable; terracotta and ceramic are better suited to sheltered spots. See our full material comparison guide for a side-by-side breakdown.

Can indoor planters be used outside?

Some can, but most aren't built for it. Indoor planters typically aren't finished to withstand UV exposure, temperature swings, or sustained moisture, which means finishes fade, materials warp, and colors chalk out after a season or two. Outdoor-rated planters are built and finished specifically for exterior conditions, which means they hold their color and shape considerably longer. If a planter doesn't specify outdoor or all-weather use, assume it isn't.

How do I choose the right size outdoor planter?

Proportion to the space matters more than any fixed rule. A planter that reads well in a showroom can disappear on a wide porch or feel overwhelming on a narrow balcony. In open settings, like patios, entryways, and streetscapes, larger planters tend to anchor the space better and hold their visual weight. For tighter footprints like steps or railings, a cluster of two or three smaller pieces usually reads better than a single oversized one. When in doubt, size up: a planter that's slightly too large for a space is easier to work with than one that's too small.

ePartners get trade pricing, dedicated support, and access to custom color and finish options across our outdoor planter collection. Apply for trade access.