A Guide to Corten Steel Planters for Your Garden
If you’ve ever had a wooden planter rot through after one wet winter or watched a ceramic pot crack in the frost, you’ll know the frustration of short-lived gardenware. That’s where corten steel planters come into their own.
Read our guide to discover the practical benefits of corten steel planters, and why they’re fast becoming the go-to choice for gardeners who want outdoor features that do more than just look the part.
What Is Corten Steel? And Why We Love It
Also commonly known as ‘weathering steel’, corten steel is a unique alloy designed to thrive outdoors. It contains copper, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus, which work together to form a stable, self-sealing layer of rust when exposed to the elements.
This protective layer of rust acts as a barrier against further corrosion, meaning no painting, sealing, or treatment is needed. It’s this natural resistance to moisture, frost, and fluctuating temperatures that makes it ideal for planters in UK gardens.
The Practical Benefits of Corten Steel Planters
If you’re tired of planters cracking, rotting or blowing over, corten planters can be game-changing. Here’s why they’re such a smart choice for gardens:
- Frost Resistant: No more split pots after a cold snap – corten steel handles freezing temperatures with ease.
- Corrosion Protection: A self-sealing protective layer of rust forms naturally, shielding the steel from further damage.
- Heavy and Stable: Blustery weather is no match for these solid, weighty planters, which avoid tipping, even on exposed patios.
- No Rot or Warping: Unlike wood or plastic, corten won’t decay, warp, or weaken over time, come rain or shine.
- Supports Healthy Plant Growth: The excellent drainage, stable soil temperatures, and rust-free interiors help create a more consistent, plant-friendly growing environment.
- Low Maintenance: Corten steel planters require no painting or sealing – simply enjoy their evolving rustic patina.
An Enduring Aesthetic Appeal in Outdoor Spaces
As well as being practical, corten steel planters are aesthetically striking in gardens too. As the steel weathers, it develops a rich, earthy patina that deepens with time, bringing warmth and texture to any garden.
This evolving finish pairs beautifully with lush greenery, sculptural shrubs, and contemporary hard landscaping. Whether used as a bold centrepiece or subtle edging, corten’s raw aesthetic adds instant, effortless character.
It’s a favourite with garden designers and landscapers for good reason. These planters create contrast, frame planting schemes, and sit comfortably alongside wood, stone, and gravel, ticking every box.
Read our guide to styling your outdoor space with corten steel planters
Choosing the Right Corten Steel Planter: Size, Shape, & Type
Corten steel planters come in a wide variety of forms, each offering its own strengths depending on your space, planting goals, and garden style.We stock a wide range of shapes and sizes to help you get the perfect fit.
Trough Planters
- Best for: Boundary lines, herb gardens, privacy planting
- Why choose it: Long and low, trough planters are ideal for creating clean edges or dividing garden zones. They’re especially popular for placing along walls or walkways.
Cube Planters
- Best for: Structural planting, statement shrubs, formal layouts
- Why choose it: Cubes add a modern, architectural feel to any outdoor space. They are great for framing doorways or creating rhythm along paths – mix and match standard and extra-large planters for a varied effect.
Round Planters
- Best for: Specimen plants, feature pots, softening corners
- Why choose it: Their curved shape brings balance to angular landscapes and allows greenery to spill naturally, creating a relaxed feel.
Tall Planters
- Best for: Vertical interest, narrow spaces, dramatic planting
- Why choose it: Tall planters make an impact without taking up too much ground space. Ideal for flanking entrances, lining pathways, or lifting foliage to eye level.
Raised Garden Beds
- Best for: Veg patches, layered displays, accessible planting
- Why choose it: Elevated for easy access and better drainage, these are ideal for those who want function without sacrificing style.
Need help choosing the right shape and size? Our team is here to advise on everything from proportions to placement. Simply contact us for tailored, expert guidance.
What to Know Before You Buy
Before you choose your corten steel planters, it’s worth keeping a few key points in mind to get the very best out of your investment:
- The rusted finish can take time. Expect the full patina to develop over 3 to 9 months, depending on exposure to the elements.
- Some runoff is normal during the early weathering stages. Avoid placing planters directly on light stone or paving.
- Choose pots with optional extras for added practicality, such as drainage holes or raised feet to improve water flow and protect surrounding surfaces.
- Maintenance of your corten steel planter is minimal. Just give the surface an occasional rinse to clear away leaves or debris.
Why Buy Your Corten Steel Planters from Round Wood of Mayfield?
With over three decades of experience, we offer a curated range of corten steel planters crafted for durability, beauty, and ease of use. From troughs and tall planters to raised beds and complementary water features, our collection is built to suit British gardens of every style.
Our knowledgeable sales team is on hand to offer friendly, expert advice to help you make the right choice, whatever your space or planting needs.
Ready to Choose Your Corten Planter?
Browse our full corten steel planter collection to find the perfect fit for your garden. Need a second opinion? We’re here to help. Simply get in touch for tailored advice or a quote today.
