The Pros and Cons of Corten Steel Planters

So, you’ve fallen in love with the deep colouration of weathering steel and want to learn more about the benefits of Corten planters for garden design. Well, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through both the advantages and disadvantages of Corten steel, so you can decide for yourself whether the solid reputation of these planters are worth it.

THE BENEFITS OF STEEL CORTEN PLANTERS

Corten planters are incredibly popular right now. Used in pieces of famous architecture across both the UK and Europe, Corten steel is now making its way into an increasing number of commercial and residential gardens, thanks to its unique, rustic appearance and many other beneficial qualities. For instance, Corten planters are:

1. Durable

How durable are steel planters? It would be an understatement to say that Corten planters are built to last. These wonderful planters will last for years to come, all thanks to the natural protective layer that the steel develops upon contact with moisture in the surrounding air.

Indeed, although the outer layer of Corten steel looks like rust, it actually serves to protect against further corrosion, making this material one of the most resistant on the market.

Of course, the more durable your planters are, the more you can go about your gardening duties without worrying too much about damaging or maintaining them. You can switch your plants around and really dig into those roots without concern about weakening this impressive material – and there’s no problem for those of you who love to frequently move things around, either.

Outdoor Corten steel planters will handle practically anything you throw at them, in addition to withstanding the fickle British weather year in, and year out.

2. Easy to maintain

They don’t break. They don’t corrode. And they last for years and years without requiring a lick of paint – even when left outside in the terrible British weather. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option for your garden, look no further than Corten steel planters.

They don’t need any ongoing maintenance like painting or sanding, giving them a competitive edge over other types of planters made of timber and plastic.

We have plenty of tips on combining multiple planters if you want the effects of a fully bloomed garden without the stress of continuous upkeep, and you’ll find plenty more inspiration online, from the many landscapers and amateur horticulturalists who already benefit from this wonderfully easy-to-maintain option.

3. Environmentally friendly

If you’re a green-fingered gardener with a passion for planting, Corten planters for eco-friendly gardening is your best bet. You want to protect the fragile world we live in at all costs, ensuring you’re doing just as much for nature as it’s doing for you in your landscaping designs.

The rusting process in the first three to six weeks of being placed outside is entirely natural.

No toxic chemicals are applied to achieve the unique colouration.

The protective layer that develops prevents further corrosion.

These eco-friendly planters don’t need to be painted, sealed or treated with substances that could damage surrounding flora and fauna.

The long lifespan of durable Corten streel means they won’t need to be replaced, reducing gardening waste.

Corten steel is 100% recyclable throughout all stages of its cycle.

In addition to preventing further damage to our planet, steel planters serve to protect it too. Planting lavender, foxgloves and hollyhock in yours supports endangered bees while using buddleia and sedums encourages visits from local butterflies.

Try to plant local flowers and greenery to ensure your planters thrive with minimal water beyond natural rainfall, and you’re onto a win-win for Mother Earth.

THE CONS OF STEEL CORTEN PLANTERS

The downsides of outdoor Corten planters are few and far between. Nevertheless, there are a couple of things you’ll need to consider before getting them for your garden.

1. There might be colour runoff

Corten garden planters look amazing, thanks to the beautiful colours they develop over time. Each colouration is uniquely different, depending on the exact location, climate and conditions your planters are placed in. Therefore, it’s important to be aware that there may be a bit of colour runoff throughout the initial oxidation process.

This could potentially stain or taint any surrounding gravel, brickwork or stone in the short term. Fortunately, the issue should reside over time and will not compromise your planters’ weather resistance in any way.

2. They might not be right for your design

If you’re convinced on choosing outdoor Corten planters for your plants, then there’s no need to read on. There isn’t even a shadow of a doubt that this is the best possible material choice for garden planters of any size.

Instead, think about how a few choice pots might complement your overall vision in an aesthetically pleasing way. We also stock a large range of powder-coated planters and strong and reliable steel edging, which combine perfectly with our Corten planters for a varied look, whilst allowing you to create beautiful, raised beds.

Outdoor Corten Planters at Weather It

As you can see, the benefits of Corten steel planters for garden use vastly outweigh any cons there might be. Provided that you can see a feasible way of working them into your landscaping design, these long-lasting, ecological gardening tools are guaranteed to delight.

Ready to discover the many merits of Corten planters for yourself? Browse our full range of handmade Corten planters or contact us on 0121 824 5700 for more information. Alternatively, you can email us at sales@weather-it.co.uk. We are always more than happy to help.