Concrete Garden Planter Tips

Most containers that gardeners use are made of plastic, resin, clay or ceramic. Concrete planters or containers may not be as commonplace but they are long-lasting and can add a unique texture and look to any garden or landscape. Both of my grandmothers had concrete flower planters of assorted shapes and sizes and they have lasted for many years. I have found that planting in concrete planters requires a little extra thought and preparation but the benefits are longevity and interesting landscape features.

Drainage of Concrete Planters
The first thing to consider with a concrete planter is drainage. All of the concrete planters I have dealt with had no drainage holes of any kind. As most gardeners know, with container planting, drainage is always an issue. A container that holds too much water against the roots can cause root rot while a container that allows water to drain too quickly can result in dried out plants.

A couple of ideas to help alleviate drainage issues in a concrete planter is to place chunks of broken clay pots in the bottom of the planter before adding potting soil. The clay pot shards will create air pockets that water in the soil will drain into.

Because the water has nowhere to drain to, one method of creating a vent that water could evaporate through would be using straws or long, plastic tubes. As you add potting soil, place a tube or straw (or two) down into the air pockets created by the layer of clay pot pieces. Allow the soil to fill in around the straw. This will create an air vent through which the water can evaporate and escape from the planter. Be careful not to cover the top of the tube with soil.

If you have it available, you could also use a concrete drill bit to add drainage holes to the planter.

Watering Flowers Planted in Concrete Containers
As with most container plantings, watering in a concrete planter needs to be frequent. Check the soil frequently and if it feels dry then you should water the plant. Watering should be done early in the morning before the heat of the sun rises.

Placement of Concrete Planters
Depending upon the size of the concrete planter, it may not be easily moved. With my plastic flower pots, I prepare them and plant them in one spot then move them around until I find the perfect spot in my yard and garden.

With a large concrete planter, this is not an option. Moving the three-foot-tall concrete flower basket of my grandmother's takes some effort, so it gets set in the desired spot and left. Planting happens where the container already sits

A concrete planter can be a unique addition to a garden area and if you have the opportunity to use one it is well worth the investment