Choosing stone planters, urns and troughs
Choose a stone planter by its usable planting space, not just its outside height. A tall urn can have a shallow bowl. Thick walls and a pedestal also take up space that does not hold compost.
Our range includes cast-stone vases, broad tazzas, long troughs and granite novelty planters. Some reservoirs are also designed for planting. Check their drainage arrangement before using them with compost. For a different material, compare metal garden planters.
Compare planting depth and empty weight
The planting measurements below come from the individual product specifications. Empty weight excludes compost, plants and water.
| Stone planter | Overall height | Listed planting area | Empty weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vienna Fleur vase | 37cm | 20cm deep; 20cm wide | 12kg | £95 |
| Medium Victorian tazza | 43cm | 14cm deep; 39cm wide | 52kg | £249 |
| Shire trough | 20cm | 15cm deep; 58cm long; 25cm wide | 38kg | £169 |
| Rustic trough | 37cm | 22cm deep; 85cm long; 28cm wide | 120kg | £329 |
A broad bowl for seasonal planting
The Medium Victorian tazza offers a 39cm-wide planting area, but only 14cm of internal depth. Consider it for a shallow seasonal display. Choose a deeper container if your plant's roots need more room.
Match the shape to your planting
Compare the mature size and rooting needs of your chosen plants with the internal measurements. There is no single planting depth that suits every shrub, herb or alpine. Allow enough compost volume for healthy growth and manageable watering.
For entrance pairs, browse stone garden urns and leave room for doors to open. A trough gives several plants space along its length. Our stone trough planting guide covers display choices.
For novelty designs, compare the granite Tiki head planter with the more traditional shapes. Check the internal cavity as carefully as the external sculpture. A decorative head is not necessarily a deep pot.
Position the planter before filling it
Plan the route from the delivery point, including narrow gates, steps and soft ground. A 120kg trough needs suitable handling arrangements before compost adds more weight. Check the product's delivery terms and prepare its final position first.
Use a firm, level surface capable of carrying the filled planter. Check the structure before placing heavy containers on decking or a raised terrace. A plinth needs enough top area for the planter's base and must support the total load.
Read our large planter filling guide before adding compost. For a coordinated entrance, compare nearby stone garden statues.
Drainage, dual-purpose bowls and winter care
Check that water can escape before planting. Some products can serve as either a planter or water-feature reservoir, so their drainage needs depend on their use. Confirm any required opening or fitting with the supplier rather than drilling stone without advice.
The granite birdbath with planter has a separate planting pot in its base. It remains useful here because it combines both functions. An ordinary birdbath is a different purchase; browse stone bird baths for those.
Keep drainage clear and follow the maker's winter instructions. Frost resistance does not remove the risk from trapped water. Clean according to the material and finish rather than applying the same treatment to every stone container.
Frequently asked questions
Is a stone planter's height its planting depth?
No, outside height includes the base, walls and any pedestal. Use the internal planting measurements when choosing plants.
Do stone planters need drainage?
Planted containers need a suitable route for excess water to escape. Check the product's drainage arrangement before adding compost.
Can a stone reservoir be used as a planter?
Some models are designed for both uses. Confirm the planting space and drainage requirements on the individual listing.
How heavy will my filled planter be?
Add the weight of wet compost, plants and water to the empty container. Use that total when planning handling and checking the supporting surface.
Which stone planter suits a narrow display?
Compare troughs by their outside width and usable internal depth. The Shire trough measures 28cm wide overall, with a 15cm-deep planting area.
Can stone planters stay outside in winter?
Follow the maker's winter-care advice and keep drainage clear. Avoid leaving trapped water to freeze inside the container.