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Spruce Up Your Garden With the Best Trough Planters
Last updated: Jan 8, 2024Trough planters are also referred to as stock tanks which come in various sizes and shapes. They are used to create eye-catching visual boundaries either indoors or outdoors. Tiny containers are used to hold plants like succulents, while big sizes are suitable for large plants. If you have limited space and still want to have a beautiful garden, you can hang the pot on rails or on windows. When used strategically, the leading trough planters in 2024 are focal points that act as room dividers, balcony decor, or decorative pieces for your patio.
Features like lightweight material, ease of movement, and drainage holes for proper drainage make them outclass conventional planters. Also, they can withstand all seasons without cracking or warping. When you use these containers, your plants will be protected from pests and weeds, making them thrive all year round. Since they have a lot to bring to the table, let’s have a look at the top trough planters right away.
Show contentsWhat Are the Best Trough Planters in 2024?- CobraCo 36-Inch Horse Trough Planter - Best Overall
- Veradek Rectangular Trough Planter - Runner Up
- Classic Home and Garden Trough Planter - Honorable Mention
- Nice Steel Trough Planter - Contender
- FirstTime & Co Farmhouse Trough Planter
A Complete Buyer's Guide to a Trough PlanterA Complete Buyer's Guide to a Trough Planter
Before buying one of the highest-rated trough planters, you should do your homework, and that is where we come in handy. We have researched multiple products and compiled the factors you need to consider to shop for the best one. But, before we get to the factors, let us look at the benefits of a trough planter.
Why Do You Need a Trough Planter?
There are various advantages associated with trough planters like fewer weeds and a reduced level of pest infestation. The pests will have a difficult time crawling up the planter while the new soil used in the pot will prevent the transfer of weed seeds making the plant healthier. Also, you will be able to have a beautiful garden despite having limited space.
What Are the Different Types of Trough Planters?
Planters come in different types based on their material. Even though there are more than 20 types, they are mainly categorized into three — metal, plastic, and concrete. You get to choose one that suits your preference and the location you are going to place it. Metal planters are known for their long lifespan because they are sturdy, withstand harsh weather, do not chip, and are crack-resistant. On the other hand, plastics are lightweight, rustproof, UV-treated to withstand sunlight, and come in an array of colors. Lastly, concrete pots have a solid form that is durable, non-toxic, and offers insulation during winter.
What Factors Should You Consider When Shopping for a Trough Planter?
Intended use
You can choose to use your pot to grow plants outside as well as inside the house. Each space has specific containers that are built using particular materials to withstand the conditions.
- Indoor: Indoor flower pots are the perfect addition to your interiors. They come in various sizes and shapes for you to choose from. Since they are small, they act as appealing focal points to improve home aesthetics. For best results, look for one that complements your home’s color scheme.
- Outdoor: A trough planter for use in the garden should be made with high-quality material since it will be exposed to long hours of sunlight and wind. When you get these containers, your plants will thrive because pests and weeds will not harm them. Consider a pot that is porous to get the best experience.
Durability
The life of trough planters is highly dependent on the quality of materials and the position of the container. Temporary containers have a short lifespan and are inexpensive. However, permanent ones made of metal, corten steel, or polypropylene plastic are pricey but guarantee you long-lasting service. Besides, harsh weather conditions can deteriorate the quality of your pot. To avoid this, you should invest in a planter that is UV treated, resistant to cracks, rustproof, and can endure extreme weather conditions.
Porosity
Materials used to make planting containers are made from different sources that have varying porosity levels. Natural materials like clay, paper, pulp, and timber allow air and moisture to circulate freely through them which makes them highly porous.
Maintenance
Plastic pots do not need constant maintenance, unlike wooden ones that must be treated once in a year to restore to their original condition and avoid staining. This becomes costly because you have to incur extra costs apart from the initial investment. Also, it is time-consuming to keep treating the pot repeatedly. Unless you have the time and money, go for troughs that are easy to maintain.
Weight
When soil gets watered, it becomes heavy. Coupled with wet soil, a heavy container will limit mobility because it will be difficult to move around. Before making a purchase, consult a specialist to help you with the structural weight determined by the heaviness of the pot, water, soil, and plants. You should go for pots made from lightweight components for small plants. However, taller and heavy plants will be best in heavy containers because they are sturdy and can easily endure windy weather.
Drainage
Whether you are looking for a pot to hang your succulents or plant flowers in a limited space, you will need to consider drainage. All plants need adequate oxygen for healthy growth, which calls for the proper flow of water. If the container holds excess water for long, your plants will eventually drown. The holes at the bottom help drain away excess water to keep your favorite plants healthy all year round. Notably, planters placed in a sink have one hole, unlike others that have many holes.
Insulation
How fast a trough planter gains or loses heat plays an essential role in container selection because of weather changes. During cold weather, go for dark colors that attract and retain heat to protect roots from frosting. On the other hand, hot weather calls for dense pots that keep away the heat. Therefore, you should choose a pot that will keep your plants healthy during all seasons.
How Much Do Trough Planters Usually Cost?
Price ranges vary from one model to another based on the size and material used. Small-sized planters with shallow designs go for as low as $30, while the large and deep designs cost $300 and above. When you decide the size you want, look at the various models available and choose the best trough planter that suits your budget.
If you’ve decided on the planter you want to buy, check out this video for information on how to fill and layer your outdoor planter.
What Are the Best Trough Planters in 2024?
1CobraCo 36-Inch Horse Trough Planter
– Best OverallEnhance your garden or flower display with this environment-friendly container that comes in a horse-trough design. Made of high-quality metal, this trough planter is guaranteed to serve you for a long time. It comes with a coco liner made from biodegradable fiber that allows proper water drainage while retaining just enough heat. You can also hang this stylish planter on the walls or rails to brighten up your home, office, or garden.
The unique design is sturdy and has a sleek and attractive finish that will blend with your outdoor décor. In addition, you will be able to save water because the liner allows roots to access the right amount of water needed for adequate growth.
Pros- Comes with adjustable brackets for hanging it easily
- Great finishing that provides an attractive look
- Versatile as it can be used on walls, deck railings, and under window sills
Cons- Only ideal for thin rails
2Veradek Rectangular Trough Planter
– Runner UpIf you fancy rectangular containers for your garden décor, this is the ultimate product you need to get. Made of plastic composite polyethylene, this trough planter is flexible and resistant to tough seasons. This tapered pot also has a distinctive marbled finish that improves aesthetics by providing a modern appeal.
Whether you use it at the entrance or as a patio accent, it will hold your plants well because it is sturdy. Its lightweight nature also allows ease of mobility, so you can always change its position without putting much effort. Moreover, it features an optional drainage hole that will drain out excess water to ensure your plants stay fresh all day, every day.
Pros- Crack-resistant during the winter season
- Made from scratch-resistant material
- Can be recycled after its useful lifespan
Cons- Expands after prolonged use
3Classic Home and Garden Trough Planter
– Honorable MentionWhen it comes to the top trough planters for small plants like succulents, this product tops the list. It is manufactured using stone dust which is mixed with a blend of silicone and resin to make it more durable and eye-catching. You also don’t have to spend a lot on this product because it costs 1/5 the price of concrete while serving you for a long time.
Minimalists and traditional décor lovers will adore this pot owing to its classic design that does not take up much space. Weighing only 1.04 pounds, it is portable and can be moved effortlessly.
Pros- Classic design that is suitable for minimalists
- Offers value for money because it is durable
- Lightweight product that is easy to move
Cons- Not suitable for hanging
4Nice Steel Trough Planter
– ContenderIf you are looking for a modern-style container that has a solid build for holding large plants, this trough planter will be ideal. The corten steel used to manufacture this container is pre-weathered, which means it will weather as time goes by. The end result will be a golden brown patina and a rustic look. It is also resistant to cracks and pests, so your plants will be safe from any form of damage.
This is one of the pots that requires assembling before use. The package includes five panels and stainless steel screws. This rectangular planter is made by skilled craftsmen who ensure the complete look after assembling conceals the folds. So, the five panels in the package interlock to form a solid pot with a modern look. To facilitate drainage, it includes six drainage holes each measuring 1” that are raised 1” from the ground.
Pros- Made of Corten steel that is rustproof, crack-proof, and resistant to pests
- Manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty
- Sturdy build to hold large plants securely
Cons- Assembling takes a lot of time
If you love the rustic decor, these trough planters will be a perfect option. Made with galvanized metal characterized by a corrugated texture, this set will give your home a classic rustic look. They are round in shape and come with stands for an elevated look. You can also easily move them as they come with handles.
You can also add the perfect touch to your indoor or outdoor decor with these pots that come in two sizes. The larger planter measures 32.5 x 15.5 x 14 inches while the smaller one measures 28.5 x 14 x 11.5 inches.
Pros- Comes in a two-piece set suitable for multiple plants
- Unique farmhouse design, which is ideal for minimalists
- Antique finish characterized by a corrugated texture
Cons- Stands do not lock in place, which makes them shaky
People Also Asked
Q: What can I plant in a trough planter?A: Small plants will be suitable because they will be vividly displayed. Some of these plants include succulents, annuals, alpine plants, and perennials.
Q: Do troughs need drainage holes?A: Drainage is essential because it facilitates the movement of water. You should ensure that it has enough holes for proper drainage. If you are going to place it on a sink, it should have a single hole and if you are going to hang it or place it on the ground, it should have multiple holes.
Q: How many plants should I put in a trough?A: The number depends on the size of the container. For 10 to 12–inch planters, you can plant 3 to four plants. On the other hand, 6 to 8 plants will fit well in 16 to 20-inch planters.
The Garden Gate Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you choose the best products for a beautiful and bountiful garden and backyard. The content is created by The Garden Gate Review Team. Garden Gate’s editorial staff is not involved. Garden Gate is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The Garden Gate Review Team is composed of authors, editors, and gardeners. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content. Please reach out to aimperiapt@gmail.com with any questions regarding product testing or specific articles.