Combining attractive seating with vibrant planting space, the planter bench is one of the most ingenious and versatile pieces of garden furniture you can own. It is a wonderfully efficient solution, particularly for those with smaller gardens, patios, or balconies, where every inch counts. By merging a comfortable bench with built-in planters, you create an instant focal point that is both beautiful and functional, offering a place to rest and immerse yourself in the sights and scents of your favourite plants.

The Benefits of a Bench with Planters

Why is this garden feature becoming so popular? The advantages are clear:

• Space-Saving Brilliance: In compact areas like a courtyard or a terrace, a planter bench provides seating and a mini-garden in a single footprint. You no longer have to choose between a place to sit and a place to grow.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The combination of natural wood or sleek metal with soft foliage and colourful flowers creates a stunning visual. It helps to soften the hard lines of furniture and integrate it seamlessly into the garden's design.
• Defining Spaces: Use a planter bench to create a natural boundary for a patio, section off a quiet corner of the garden, or add a sense of enclosure and privacy. It's a stylish alternative to a low fence or hedge.
• A Sensory Experience: The plants are positioned right next to the seating area, allowing you to plant for fragrance. Imagine sitting amongst the calming scent of lavender, the fresh aroma of mint, or the sweet perfume of climbing jasmine.

Planting Ideas for Your New Bench

The fun really begins when you start to fill your planters. The key is to think about height, colour, and texture to create a balanced display. For the best results, ensure your planters have good drainage holes and consider using a liner to protect the bench material.

For a vibrant, summery look, combine trailing plants like lobelia, petunias, and ivy that will spill over the edges, with upright plants like geraniums, marigolds, or fuchsias for height and a splash of colour. For year-round interest, consider small evergreen shrubs like dwarf conifers or boxwoods, complemented by seasonal bedding plants.

A herb garden is another fantastic option. Planting rosemary, thyme, mint, and chives not only provides a wonderful aroma but also puts fresh ingredients right at your fingertips. For a modern, architectural feel, try using a mix of ornamental grasses that will rustle gently in the breeze.

A Final Thought

Before you buy, measure your space carefully and consider the style that will best complement your home and garden. A planter bench isn't just a piece of furniture; it's a dynamic, living feature that will bring joy, colour, and comfort to your outdoor space for years to come.