Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Concrete Planters

Featured Image: Hampstead Large & Extra Large Concrete Planters by Campania

 

Perfected by the ancient Romans, concrete has laid the foundation for enduring architecture through the ages. Today, outdoor concrete planters are celebrated for bringing this legacy of durability and timeless elegance into both modern and traditional garden designs. 

Beyond their robustness, outdoor concrete planters are celebrated for their heirloom quality and often become lasting fixtures in gardens or community spaces that can be enjoyed for generations. 

This guide delves into the versatile world of concrete planters, exploring four distinct style categories—Modern, Animal, Classic, and Mediterranean. Each offers unique aesthetic appeals to suit various tastes and garden themes. 

From Fountainful's carefully curated collection, we'll showcase examples that exemplify the beauty and practicality of outdoor concrete planters and provide inspiration for incorporating these pieces into your own outdoor sanctuary. 

What is the most durable material for outdoor planters?

The most durable material for outdoor planters is generally considered to be concrete. Outdoor concrete planters offer exceptional longevity and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, without deteriorating quickly. Their robust nature has rocketed them into popularity among garden enthusiasts and landscape designers alike.

Do cement planters crack?

Concrete is resistant to fading, cracking, and warping, so outdoor concrete planters will maintain their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity over many years if properly maintained (i.e., raising off the ground in areas with winter temps below freezing). Additionally, concrete's hefty weight makes these planters stable and less likely to tip over in strong winds.

Style Categories of Outdoor Concrete Planters

There's a concrete planter for every taste and setting. Here's a look at four popular style categories, each with a unique appeal.

Modern Concrete Planters

Modern outdoor concrete planters are characterized by their clean lines and minimalist aesthetic. These planters often feature geometric shapes and a monochromatic color palette, making them a perfect fit for contemporary gardens and outdoor spaces. Their simplicity allows the focus to remain on the beauty of the plants within, complementing rather than competing with them.

Bebel Planter by Campania: A Modern Vase Style Planter

The Bebel Planter by Campania showcases a sleek, tapered vase design, perfect for those who appreciate modern simplicity in their decor. This 50-pound cast stone concrete planter is ideal for a variety of settings, including patios, balconies, and indoor spaces, offering a blend of contemporary charm and durable craftsmanship.

Pros:

• Suits various decor themes, from contemporary to minimalist
• Rated for both indoor and outdoor environments

Cons:

• It may be challenging to move once placed or filled with soil
• The natural finish may vary from the product image, and the patina will change over time, which might not suit all preferences

Specifications:

Material: Cast Stone Concrete

Color Options: Available in 14 finishes

Dimensions: 12.25"W x 15"H (Base: 6"W)

Weight: 50 lbs

Drainage Hole: Yes, centered approximately 0.75"

Those seeking a larger option should see the Bebel Tall Planter, while the Bebel Pebble Fountain incorporates a water fountain feature in the same modern aesthetic. 

Tribeca Low XL Planter: A Large Commercial Concrete Planter

The Tribeca Low XL Concrete Planter from Campania draws inspiration from the trendy Tribeca neighborhood in New York, known for its distinctive urban vibe and stylish outdoor spaces. This planter embodies a minimalist aesthetic with its clean lines and unadorned surface, making it a perfect addition to any modern patio or garden. Weighing in at 506 pounds and crafted from high-density cast stone concrete, this substantial piece is built for durability and longevity, indoors or out.

Pros:

• Offers ample planting space for a variety of plants, from ornamentals to small trees
• Its minimalist design complements any outdoor decor

Cons:

• At 506 pounds, it requires a permanent location and possibly multiple people for placement
• Its large dimensions may not suit smaller spaces or balconies

Specifications:

Color: Shown in Greystone; 14 finishes available

Weight: 506 lbs

Outside Dimensions: 36"W x 22"H / Base: 17"W

Inside Dimensions: Top: 32"W / Bottom: 28"W

Inside Height: 20"H

Drainage Hole: Centered, approximately 2"

For those seeking a cohesive look or different sizes for their planting needs, the Tribeca series offers a range of sizes including the Tribeca Planter (slightly smaller than the Low XL) and the Tribeca Small Planter (smallest).

Animal-Themed Concrete Planters

Animal-themed outdoor concrete planters add a touch of whimsy to any space. These planters are a fun way to express your style and bring a playful element into your garden. They're perfect for both indoor and outdoor settings, make great gifts for animal lovers, and add character to plant displays.

Small Turtle Planter: For Nature Enthusiasts

The Small Turtle Planter by Campania brings a playful spirit to any setting with its detailed sculpture of a turtle, complete with a shell, head, and legs. Weighing just 16 pounds, this concrete planter merges whimsical charm with the durability of high-density cast stone. It's an ideal choice for adding a touch of nature-inspired beauty to your patio, porch, balcony, tabletop, or garden.

Pros:

• Adds a playful touch to any outdoor or indoor space
• Lightweight enough for various settings, from tabletops to garden nooks

Cons:

• Smaller dimensions mean it's best suited for smaller plants or succulents

Specifications:

Color Options: Available in 14 finishes

Dimensions: 12.5"L x 9.5"W x 4.25"H; Base: 10.25"L x 9.25"W

Weight: 16 lbs.

Drainage Hole: Yes, centered, approximately 1" - 1.25"

Whether you're looking to complement your garden's wildlife theme or are searching for a unique gift for a nature-loving friend, this planter, or its larger sibling, the Turtle Concrete Planter, promises to be a delightful addition.

Ammonite Planter: A Prehistoric Concrete Planter for Indoors or Outdoors

The Ammonite Planter, also from Campania, brings the ancient world into contemporary spaces with its detailed homage to the iconic cephalopod fossil. This lightweight, 7-pound concrete planter captures the imagination and adds a unique charm wherever it's placed. It's ideal for patios, porches, balconies, windowsills, tabletops, and gardens alike. Whether you're a fan of paleontology, or a lover of unique decor, this piece promises to add a touch of evolutionary history to your home or plant collection.

Pros:

• Offers a unique aesthetic not found in standard planters
• Its compact size allows for versatile placement in various indoor and outdoor settings

Cons:

• Best suited for small plants, succulents, or as a decorative piece due to its size
• Whimsical design may not suit all style preferences

Specifications:

Material: Cast Stone Concrete

Color Options: Available in 14 finishes

Dimensions: 7.5"L x 5"W x 6"H; Base: 2.75" x 2"W

Weight: 7 lbs

Drainage Hole: Yes, centered, approximately 0.50"

Classic Concrete Planters

Classic-style outdoor concrete planters exude rustic charm and a cozy appeal. These planters often feature distressed finishes, elegant accents, or traditional shapes that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. They blend seamlessly with the natural elements of a garden, enhancing the homey feel of outdoor living spaces with their understated elegance.

Smithsonian Morning Glory Planter: An Extra Large Concrete Planter for Outside

The Smithsonian Morning Glory Outdoor Concrete Planter by Campania, set to grace gardens in April 2024, presents an exquisite urn-on-pedestal design that pays homage to the beauty of the morning glory flower. This 375-pound masterpiece is adorned with detailed reliefs of morning glory blooms and foliage, and showcases exceptional craftsmanship. Designed for display in a variety of outdoor settings, this planter brings an ambience of heritage into your space.

Pros:

• Features an elegant design with beautifully sculpted morning glory flowers
• Versatile placement possible in patios, porches, and gardens

Cons:

• At 375 pounds, its substantial weight may limit mobility and require strategic placement
• The large dimensions may not be suitable for smaller outdoor spaces or indoor use

Specifications

Color Options: Featured in Ferro Rustico Nuovo, with 13 other finishes available

Dimensions: 30.5"W x 38.25"H; Base: 13.5"W

Weight: 375 lbs

Drainage: Includes a centered drainage hole, approximately 1.5"

English Weave Large Planter: Heavy duty outdoor concrete planter

The English Weave Large Outdoor Concrete Planter from Campania brings the elegance and charm of the British countryside to your outdoor space. This planter, weighing 127 pounds, showcases a beautifully sculpted woven pattern, complete with a braided rim, and offers both rustic charm and sophisticated craftsmanship. This planter is a testament to timeless design and durability.

Pros:

• The intricate woven pattern and braided rim adds a sophisticated touch to any setting
• Ideal for a variety of outdoor spaces including gardens, patios, and porches

Cons:

• At 127 pounds, it may require more effort to move and position
• Its large size might not be suitable for smaller spaces or for those seeking a more understated garden feature

Specifications:

Material: Cast Stone Concrete

Color Options: Available in Alpine Stone and 13 other finishes

Dimensions: 24"W x 18"H; Base: 13"W

Weight: 127 lbs.

Drainage Hole: Yes, centered, approximately 1" - 1.25"

Those seeking a smaller option should see the English Weave Medium Planter and the Small English Weave Planter.

Classic Rolled Rim Outdoor Concrete Planter

The Classic Rolled Rim Planter by Campania is a traditional box planter with accent lines that add depth and interest while drawing eyes up to the plants above. This 271-pound piece exudes a familiar charm and is a product of modern craftsmanship, making it a versatile addition to your space. Whether placed on a patio or nestled within a garden, this outdoor concrete planter enhances the beauty of your plant arrangements with its timeless aesthetic.

Pros:

• The accents, and rolled rim offers a stylish take on the traditional box planter
• The dimensions will allow many types of plants to be accommodated

Cons:

• At 171 pounds, it may require more effort to move or adjust once placed
• It comes with a premium price tag

Specifications:

Color Options: Available in 14 finishes

Outside Dimensions: 36"L x 17.5"W x 15.75"H; Base: 33.5"L x 14.5"W

Inside Dimensions: 30.5"L x 11.5"W; Bottom: 29.5"L x 10.5"W

Inside Height: 13.5”H

Weight: 171 lbs

Drainage: Off-centered; approximately 1" 

Mediterranean Concrete Planters

Mediterranean outdoor concrete planters are celebrated for their elaborate craftsmanship and rich historical roots. Featuring detailed patterns, elegant scrolls, and classic motifs, these planters evoke the splendor of ancient Mediterranean gardens and majestic estates. They infuse any garden with a dramatic presence and an enduring sense of history, perfect for anyone aiming to cultivate an area with a luxurious, decorative appeal.

Rosecliff Lion Head Planter: An Extra Large Concrete Planter for Outside

The Rosecliff Lion Head Outdoor Concrete Planter by Campania, coming back in April 2024, features sculpted lion heads and decorative scrollwork accents. This 452-pound masterpiece is designed for display in a variety of outdoor settings and brings the majestic heritage of lion head design into your space.

Pros:

• Features an elegant design with beautifully sculpted lion heads
• Versatile placement possible in patios, porches, and gardens

Cons:

• At 452 pounds, its substantial weight may limit mobility and require strategic placement
• The large dimensions may not be suitable for smaller outdoor spaces or indoor use

Specifications

Color Options: Featured in Alpine Stone, with 13 other finishes available

Dimensions: 41"W x 29.75"H; Base: 17.75"W

Weight: 452 lbs

Drainage: Includes a centered drainage hole, approximately 1"

Arabesque Small Planter: A Touch of Arabian Elegance

The Arabesque Small Outdoor Concrete Planter from Campania brings the intricate beauty of traditional Arabesque patterns to life, featuring elegantly sculpted foliage and ornamental style. Weighing 54 pounds, its robust cast stone concrete construction ensures both old-world charm and enduring quality.

Pros:

• Adds a decorative touch with its detailed Arabian style
• Robust construction suitable for various climates

Cons:

• Limited size may not suit larger plants or arrangements
• The ornate patterns may not match all garden themes and preferences

Specifications:

Available Colors: A wide range including Alpine Stone

Dimensions: 17.5"W x 15"H; Base: 8.5"W

Weight: 54 lbs

Drainage: Features a centered drainage hole (approx. 0.5 - 0.75") for plant health

Those seeking a larger option should see the Medium Arabesque Planter and Large Arabesque Planter.

Upgrade Your Garden with Outdoor Concrete Fountains from Fountainful

Explore our entire collection of exceptional outdoor concrete planters online at Fountainful.com.

Questions about our products? Contact us today at 214-901-7275!