Guide3 min read
Cast Stone and Cast Concrete Planters: Care, Frost and What to Check
Short answer: Cast stone planters and cast concrete planters need three things: a way for water to drain, a winter spot out of standing water, and gentle cleaning with water and a soft brush. Before buying, check the opening and drainage, whether the maker says it can go outdoors, and the weight once filled.
Looking for the pieces themselves? See our unusual plant pots and sculptural planters.
Related pieces
What is a cast stone planter?
The UK Cast Stone Association defines cast stone as any material made with natural aggregates and a cement binder, intended to resemble and be used like natural stone. "Cast concrete planter" describes the same family. The cast stone maker Marshalls advises treating cast stone with the same care as natural stone.
What should you check before you buy?
| Check | Why |
|---|---|
| Opening and inner depth | It decides which plant or nursery pot fits, not the outer size |
| Drainage hole | The RHS calls drainage essential; without one, use an inner pot |
| Indoors or outdoors | A stone look does not make a pot a garden pot; go by the maker's word |
| Weight when full | Add compost, water and plant before choosing a shelf or balcony |
How do you protect cast stone planters from frost?
In winter the RHS advises frost-proof rather than merely frost-resistant pots, raising containers on pot feet or bricks so drainage holes stay clear, and removing saucers so pots are not left standing in water.
Pieces sold for indoors stay indoors. Pieces sold for a sheltered spot outside do best under an overhang or against a wall, and come in during hard frost if the maker says so.
How do you clean a cast stone planter?
Clean water and a soft bristle or nylon brush, never wire, and no pressure washer, bleach or acid. Moss and lichen do the stone no harm, says the RHS, so leave them if you like the look. Step by step: how to clean stone garden ornaments.
Our cast stone planters
Most of our sculptural planters are hand-painted cast stone. The David and Venus torso planters (about 20 cm tall) and the Greek god planter can live indoors or in a sheltered spot outside; Stairwell and Sable are for indoors. Each page lists its size, opening and planting method.
Questions
Are cast stone and concrete planters the same?
Cast stone is a kind of concrete cast to look like natural stone. Care is the same: drainage, no standing water in winter, gentle cleaning.
Are cast stone planters frost-proof?
Only if the maker says so. Raise outdoor pots on feet, remove saucers in winter and follow each product page.
Should I seal a cast stone planter?
It is not needed for most pieces. See our guide on sealing concrete garden ornaments before applying anything.
Do cast stone planters need drainage holes?
The plant needs drainage. If the planter has no hole, keep the plant in a nursery pot inside it and lift it out to water.
Browse our unusual plant pots and sculptural planters.