Large Planters Size Guide and Plant Arrangement Ideas

Large planters

Are you looking to add wow-factor to an indoor or outside space? Extra-large planters filled with a multitude of plants, shrubs, and even small trees, are guaranteed to get your business noticed. They bring a bounty of much-needed greenery and life to commercial buildings and make a powerful design statement that will instantly differentiate you from your competition.

While they add a big dash of contemporary sophistication to tired and dated schemes, large planters also have several functional purposes. Use them to block off unsightly areas, and direct traffic flows, make them the centerpiece in a bare foyer or courtyard, or install them as borders to separate office cubicles or restaurant seating — the options are endless!

However, finding the perfect oversized container for your foliage can be challenging, especially with so many styles, colors, and shapes on the market. This guide is here to explain everything, including what planter material is best, how to fill large planter boxes, and what plants to grow in them.

What’s the Best Size and Material of Large Planters to Pick?

Large planters aren't a specific size. Instead, vendors tend to categorize them as containers that take two hands to lift, starting around 12" in length, depth, or height, all the way up to 60" or more. To ensure you pick the correct size, always choose a pot that's a couple of inches bigger than the mature plant it will contain. One that's too small will stunt your vegetation’s growth, potentially leading them to wilt and die. On the other hand, opt for one too sizable, and it will retain moisture for longer, leaving roots sitting in stagnant water and rotting.

Containers are also available in a variety of materials, from concrete to ceramic. However, fiberglass planters are the most popular due to their lightweight, easy-care finish, and superb durability. Leave them out in the elements or high-traffic spaces like receptions, lobbies, and waiting rooms without worry!

How to Fill a Large Planter Box

A common concern with large planters is the amount of expensive potting soil it takes to fill them, as you can't use ordinary garden dirt in your containers due to it possibly containing weeds, pests, and diseases.

The simple solution to this dilemma is to stuff the bottom third of your pot with lightweight filler materials. These may include aluminum cans, milk bottles, foam blocks, or bagged packing peanuts, although do check these are non-toxic and won't disintegrate during the growing season. And remember to cover this layer with a piece of landscape fabric or newspaper to prevent the soil from filtering down.

Best Plants for Large Planters

One of the most significant benefits of using large planters is the extra space they give you to cultivate bigger plant species and a wider range of varieties. Here are a few of our favorites:

Kumquat trees — this tropical tree bears glossy green leaves and yellowish-orange fruits with sweet skins and tart flesh, making it as delicious as it is attractive. A patio favorite, this plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide and needs full sun and moist soil to flourish.
Lavender — originating from Mediterranean mountains, lavender's stunning purple petals, silvery stems, and soothing scent are instantly recognizable. Not only is it amazingly hardy, blooming all year round without a fuss, but you can also use it as a herb to flavor desserts and cocktails.
Buddleia — known as butterfly bush, buddleia's flower heads come in a rainbow of hues, including purple, blue, pink, and white, and are packed full of nectar, making it a magnet for pollinators. You can find them in both dwarf and giant varieties, all requiring sunshine and well-draining soil.

At Pots, Planters & More, we specialize in high-quality, commercial-grade large fiberglass planters in a massive variety of designs, colors, and finishes, including faux stone and metallic textures. For further assistance, please call (855) 627-1066 or email sales@potsplantersandmore.com.