If you live in a hot, dry, or hot climate then choosing outdoor flower pots or planters that have some sort of protective covering on them just makes sense. Metal and plastic may be fine if you live in a mild continental climate where the weather rarely gets really hot, but think about how your garden will handle a sudden shower of hot rain or a light, dusting snow. Can you imagine how your plants would respond? In areas where the temperatures occasionally get to high and fall, you’ll probably want to consider using a spray paint planter cover instead of one that’s made out of metal or plastic. Spray paint planters are less heavy and more weather resistant and are more likely to survive even the worst conditions.

The drainage in outdoor flower pots and planters is another factor that you should pay close attention to. While a majority of planters now come with some sort of drainage system, you should still check yours to see if it’s fully usable. Even if your drainage system is fully functional, a fully established plant may weigh a lot. So, to avoid this problem try to keep your plant down in a lower area, like on a table, or use a bench or a tree to keep it down. Make sure that there’s plenty of drainage. And, if you live in a colder climate then spend a little extra time making sure that your drainage pipes are properly insulated.

Durability is something that everyone wants in a pot, whether they’re made from clay or plastic. Fortunately, plastic flower pots and planters have gotten a lot lighter in recent years. This makes them a lot easier to move around. However, you do need to take special care when moving plastic pots. For example, it’s a good idea to avoid bumping them into sharp objects, since they’ll become damaged quickly.

A popular type of plastic pot is the “ceramic” variety. Ceramic pots are made of all-porcelain chips that react to heat. If you’d like something heavier but not as strong, consider going with “rustic” pots, which can be found in many garden supply stores.

On the whole, terracotta is one of the sturdiest types of outdoor flower pots out there. In addition, it can last for decades and is very easy to clean. Before you purchase this kind of pot, however, be sure to consider your climate. While planters that are specifically designed for colder climates may seem appealing, you might find yourself wishing you had something lighter and warmer once spring comes around. If you’re planning on planting trees or shrubs along with your plants, a heavy clay planter is out of the question. Instead, opt for a container that’s made of a more lightweight material such as terracotta.

One final tip: remember to paint your pots in the proper colors. Most plants like a wide array of natural colors, so choose earth tones if you don’t want to stick with the same hue all year long. If you prefer, though, you can always buy paints specifically made for use with pots. Some garden supply stores sell paints that will go on porcelain and clay planters, too.

All in all, you should find that buying a good outdoor planter and pot will provide you with years of beautiful flowers and greenery. Just be sure to invest in one that’s made of high quality material and has UV inhibitors within its durable resin material. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy your flowers, vegetables, herbs and other plants without worrying about damage. It’s also a good idea to choose a pot with a built-in shade or light blocker. Not only will you be able to ensure a colorful display all year long, but you’ll be able to enjoy your flowers year-round. With UV inhibitors in place, you can expect your colorful outdoor planters and pots to fade-free performance.