Selecting the right planter material can completely transform the look and long-term performance of your outdoor space. With so many styles and finishes available, it’s worth taking a closer look at how each material behaves outdoors—and how it can enhance your garden or patio. Today, we’re exploring three popular choices: wood, zinc, and Corten steel, highlighting the unique benefits of each to help you decide what works best for your space.

Wood Planters: Natural Warmth and Rustic Charm

Wood remains a favourite for outdoor planters thanks to its warm, organic character and its ability to blend effortlessly with surrounding greenery. Whether crafted from cedar, teak, or high-quality pine, wooden planters create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere in any garden.

Advantages

• Natural aesthetic: Wood’s earthy appearance complements virtually any style of planting or outdoor décor.
  
  

• Customisable colour: Our wood planters are available in a wide range of painted finishes—and you can easily paint them yourself to match your chosen palette.
  
  

• Durability with care: The premium pine we use is naturally resistant to rot. With occasional sealing or staining, wood planters can stand up well to seasonal changes.
  
  

• Eco-friendly choice: Our wooden planters are made from responsibly sourced timber, ideal for gardeners who value sustainability.
  
  

Best for: Anyone aiming for a warm, natural look—and who doesn’t mind a little maintenance to keep their planters looking their best.

Zinc Planters: Sleek, Lightweight, and Contemporary

Zinc has become a standout material in modern garden design thanks to its clean, understated appearance. Our zinc planter collection includes a variety of colours—from classic black and silver to green and rose-gold—making it easy to find a style that fits your outdoor scheme.

Advantages

• Lightweight construction: Easy to move and rearrange, zinc is perfect for those who like to refresh their garden layout.
  
  

• Corrosion resistance: Naturally resistant to rust, zinc performs well in damp or humid environments and offers long-lasting durability.
  
  

• Modern design appeal: Its minimal, contemporary look pairs perfectly with urban gardens, patios, and modern landscaping.
  
  

Best for: Contemporary or city-style gardens where low maintenance, flexibility, and a modern finish are top priorities.

Corten Steel Planters: Industrial Style with Unmatched Longevity

Corten steel—often called weathering steel—is celebrated for its evolving rust-like patina that deepens over time. Planters.co.uk's Corten come Pre-Rusted so you can enjoy this aesthetic from day one. This distinctive finish delivers bold, architectural character while blending beautifully with both lush planting and minimalist landscapes.

Advantages

• A striking visual statement: The rich, weathered patina offers a dramatic contrast to greenery and hard landscaping.
  
  

• Exceptional durability: Designed to withstand the elements, Corten steel forms a self-protective layer that enhances its longevity.
  
  

• Versatile style: Equally at home in rustic, contemporary, and industrial-themed gardens.
  
  

Best for: Gardeners looking for a bold, sculptural feature that develops unique character year after year.