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Who uses metal containers?
Some copper containers I've been eying up from Target are on clearance right now and I'm seriously considering picking some up. The copper color and round shape would match my copper hose pot perfectly and I love the green patina copper develops. But I've never done container gardening before.
What do I need to do look for? It's my understanding I need to put a plastic container inside to hold the actual plant and for the tall ones I'd use some kind of lightweight filler to add the plastic container on. Is that right? I've also read that dark metal containers shouldn't be used in full sun because they can heat the soil. Anything else to be aware of? I was thinking of using these for annuals if that matters.
I know a lot of avid gardeners are really into ceramic pots is that just because of the insulating value or do they help with watering too?
Re: Who uses metal containers?
I have 2. One has a plastic liner insert (found one same size and shape that fit perfectly) and the other one has no liner.
The one with the plastic pot inside is planted with annuals, the other one holds perennials (hosta, cranesbill, astilbe) and amazingly they have never gotten cold enough to die, despite the small volume of soil and the thin metal, and the fact that it's standing on 3' tall metal legs. I was afraid they'd die but they've been in there for three winters.
Good to know! Is there any kind of metal or coating/paint I should be looking for?
I stopped by Target last night and was bummed to find out the pots weren't actually copper (it didn't say online) and they weren't even a good fake paint job. I think I'll just wait out for some nicer looking ones.
I don't really know for sure what kind of metal mine are, I assume aluminum because so far they haven't rusted out. They have a fake patina, rust color with some greenish tinges, and some decorative fake ceramic medallions. I found them attractive, and bought them on clearance from the nursery I worked at, which I never would have otherwise because they were crazy expensive.
I see so they came from a flower center and were expensive. Yes that is what I've found too. The nicer looking ones and the ones that seem to have the best construction are pricey. I just wasn't sure if the main difference was just the looks or the construction itself. LOL I think I'm over thinking it!
I'll just keep an eye out for something that is copper plated to match my hose pot. I asked for it at Christmas:
Isn't it awesome?! I'm kind of in love with this silly thing. Since it sits right outside our front door I wanted something that looked good and wasn't as utilitarian looking as the reels.