A buyer’s guide to garden planters and plant pots

Garden planters and plant pots are one of the easiest ways to bring life, colour, and personality to your outdoor space. Whether you have a spacious garden, a cosy balcony, or an open patio, planters offer a simple and flexible way to add greenery and style.

With so many shapes, sizes, and materials available, choosing the right garden planters can feel a bit overwhelming – especially if you're new to gardening. From practical considerations like size, drainage, and durability to aesthetic choices that complement your outdoor decor, there’s may be more to think about than you might initially expect.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the ideal garden planters for your space, making it easier for you to create the outdoor area you’ve always been dreaming of.

The size and shape of your garden planters can transform both the look of your outdoor space and the health of your plants. Start by considering your space. Large planters are great for open gardens or spacious patios, acting as focal points and giving bigger plants or small trees plenty of room to grow. Compact planters work well on balconies, small patios, or in tight corners, while tall, narrow planters add height without taking up much floor space.

Planter depth is another key factor to keep in mind. Shallow planters suit herbs, succulents, or flowers with short roots, while deeper planters are essential for shrubs, climbing plants, or small trees that need space to grow strong, healthy roots.

Finally, think about how you want to arrange your planters. A single, oversized planter makes a bold statement, while grouping smaller planters creates visual interest. Mixing planters and pots of different sizes and shapes adds depth and texture to your space.

Whether you go for a bold stand-alone planter or a layered display, the right size and shape will bring your outdoor space to life.

When choosing garden planters and pots – as is the case with any garden furniture and accessories – there are many different materials to choose from, each with its own unique benefit. Discover our full assortment within garden planters and plant pots or read more about the different materials below. 

• Ceramic and terracotta: Classic and breathable, ceramic and terracotta planters are well-suited for a wide variety of plants. Their timeless look complements most outdoor spaces, whether you prefer a traditional, rustic, or modern design.
• Rattan and wood: Rustic and natural-looking, planters made from rattan or wood are the ideal choice – natural materials look great in the outdoors. However, keep in mind that these may not always be frost hardy nor as weather-resistant as other materials. Polyrattan emulates the natural look of rattan while being more resistant.
• Plastic and resin: Lightweight and weather-resistant, plastic and resin planters are easy to move and maintain. They typically come in a wide range of styles and colours, making them a versatile and worry-free choice for any outdoor setting.
• Steel and metal: Powder-coated or galvanised metal planters offer a sleek and contemporary look. Their durability and clean lines make them a great match for modern, minimalist aesthetics, and they often pair well with structured greenery or architectural plants.
• Fibre clay and concrete: Sturdy and elegant, fibre clay and concrete planters bring a refined, sculptural, and often tactile quality to outdoor spaces. Their solid construction makes them ideal for larger plants or small trees, adding a sense of permanence and stability to your garden.

The material of a garden planter plays a key role in determining its overall weight, which is an important factor to consider depending on your outdoor space. If you have a small, sheltered balcony and want to group several planters together, lightweight options like rattan or polyrattan might be ideal, making them easier to move and rearrange. In more exposed areas, heavier planters made from concrete, ceramic, or fibre clay can be a better choice, as they’re less likely to tip over in windy weather.

Keep in mind that large planters made from dense materials can be quite heavy, which is especially important to consider for balconies or elevated spaces where excessive weight might be a concern.

Alongside weight, it’s also worth thinking about how your planters will stand up to the elements. If you live in a colder climate, opt for frost-resistant materials to avoid cracking during winter. In sunnier spots, UV-resistant plastics help prevent fading and wear. For windy areas, heavier planters can offer extra stability and reduce the risk of tipping over. 

Keep in mind that some planters may need to be moved indoors or given extra protection during harsher seasons to keep them looking their best year after year. It’s always a good idea to check whether the planters you’re considering can withstand seasonal changes or if they’ll need to be stored in a shed, garage, or similar space.

Tip: You can find this information for any JYSK planter in the product specifications in our online store. 

Beyond practicality, garden planters are a simple way to enhance the look and feel of your outdoor space. The material, shape, and colour you choose can help tie your garden together or create standout features. For a cohesive look, match your planters to your garden’s overall style – whether that’s modern, rustic, classic, or minimalist. Neutral tones offer a timeless appeal, while bold colours can add contrast and personality.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different sizes, shapes, and materials to create depth and visual interest, especially when grouping planters together. It’s an easy way to bring more texture and character to your outdoor area.

It’s also important to consider whether a planter has drainage holes, as this affects where and how you use it. Planters with drainage holes are ideal for outdoor spaces where excess water can easily drain away, helping to prevent overwatering and root rot – especially after heavy rain. They're great for most plants that prefer well-drained soil and thrive outdoors.

Planters without drainage holes, on the other hand, are perfect for covered areas like patios, balconies, or even indoor spaces where you want to avoid water seeping onto the floor. They’re also a great option if you prefer complete control over watering, as you can use a layer of pebbles or a smaller pot inside to manage drainage. Both styles have their advantages, so it’s simply about choosing what best suits your space and the plants you like. 

Tip: Just like details on frost hardiness, you can find information about whether a planter has a drainage hole in the product specifications in our online store.

If you love the idea of lush greenery but want something low-maintenance, artificial garden plants are a great option. They offer year-round colour and vibrancy without the need for watering, pruning, or worrying about changing seasons. 

Artificial greenery is perfect for planters in hard-to-reach spots or for those who prefer a maintenance-free garden – these faux but convincing plants can help you create a beautiful outdoor space with minimal effort.

The right lighting can completely transform your outdoor space, adding warmth and charm as the sun sets. Placing solar lamps, lanterns, or battery-powered lights around your garden planters not only highlights your plants but also creates a cosy, inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing summer evenings.

Lanterns placed beside larger planters can add a soft, ambient glow, while solar lights nestled among your pots can gently illuminate pathways or garden corners. Battery-powered lamps are also a flexible option, allowing you to move them around and set the mood wherever needed. With just a few well-placed lights, you can enjoy your outdoor space long after sunset.

Great offers for your outdoor space

At JYSK, you’ll always find great offers and plenty of inspiration to help you make the most of your garden, patio, balcony, or any other outdoor area. With the right garden planters, plants, and lighting, it’s easy to create a space that feels like an extension of your home – whether it’s a peaceful retreat, a vibrant garden, or a cosy corner to unwind.

Explore our full garden assortment, including planters and furniture and create the outdoor space you’ve always been dreaming of.