Corten steel planters are becoming immensely popular, not only with homeowners but also with interior designers and landscapers. These planters are uniquely aesthetic and durable at the same time and provide an ample solution for improving both outer and inner spaces. As such, corten steel planters should definitely be your goto if you are trying to set up an elegant interior, spice up a patio with a modern garden design, or appreciate corten steel’s vintage landscaping.
What is Corten Steel?
Corten steel, or weathering steel, is a form of steel alloy that exhibits an interesting attribute of developing a rusted patina over time. While common steel would be at risk of corrosion after developing such a coating, the unique protective layer of weathering steel does the opposite, allowing outdoor use of the material generously.
Key Features of Corten Steel:
– Weather Resistance: The coating of rust automatically negates the need for sealers and paint.
– Deficient Upkeep: The material’s natural aging process will ensure sufficient maintenance.
– Simplicity in Design: The classical industrial or rustic look offered as a result of the mellow rusted tones only helps to enhance both modern and classic landscapes.
These benefits not only provide visual appeal but also practicality to corten steel planters.
Benefits of Corten Steel Planters
When it comes to gardening, both indoors and outdoors, planters made of Corten steel offer an unusual and functional option.
– Durable and Long Lasting
Corten steel planters offer durability that is virtually unmatched. Their steel design is far less susceptible to humidity, wind, rain, and extreme temperatures than plastic and wooden planters.
– A Diversity of Shapes
Corten steel comes in all types of design, from tall rectangular planters, to tall bowls, and everything in between. It works with both rustic and minimalist geometric designs.
– Better For The Environment
Corten steel is indeed an ecofriendly option worth considering. Not only does rust on the steel slow down the need for replacements, but the longevity of the planter makes it an excellent choice for reducing landfill waste.
– Enhanced Aeration and Drainage
Corten steel planters offer insulation that amplifies the warmth of the roots of the plant, and, due to the slight porosity of rust, adequate drainage and aeration can be achieved.
Selecting the right corten steel planter
When it comes to selecting your planter, it is best to consider both functionality and aesthetics.
– Size and Shape
This depends on what type of plant you are growing. For ornamental grasses, small trees, or even bamboo, tall planters work the best. For herbs, flowers, and succulents, wide and shallow planters are better. Make sure the planter container can fit the root system comfortably.
– Placement and Orientation
Corten steel can be positioned both outdoors and indoors. However, placement outdoors and indoors affects the formation of the patina. Outdoor planters get sunlight and rain, which helps to get a deeper rust color. For indoor planters, occasional misting allows for color evolution and a more natural character.
– Drainage Considerations
To avoid the damage caused by waterlogging, most planters of corten steel are designed with holes for drainage. For healthy plant maintenance, adding a drainage layer of gravel helps liners as well. Standing water can cause chronic structural damage, and potential stress to the planter can be avoided with proper drainage.
Maintaining Your Corten Steel Planter
There are a low number of disadvantages to corten steel planters and the maintenance is low for them as well. To ensure the planter lasts, there are various tips to follow.
– Let Patina Develop Naturally
Don’t paint or seal the steel. The protective patina that develops is essential. With time the protective layer of rust that forms and stabilizes on the steel will provide the planter a warm and textured appearance.
– Clean From Time To Time
Dirt, leaves, and other debris should be cleared from planter surfaces. Simply rinsing with water works for most simple applications, but no repairable damage or abrasion should be left on the patina layer as a result of the application of cleaning agents.
– Surface Protection
Corten steel tends to bleed rust and other stains onto surfaces around the planter. If this is a concern for being placed indoors or on wooden decking, put the planter on a tray, protective gravel bed or mat.
Unique Ideas for Using Corten Steel Planters
Corten steel planters are elegant yet bold which makes them easy to adapt to various styles and purposes.
– Contemporary Landscape Gardening
In modern gardens, large corten steel planters can serve as dramatic focal points. With minimalist stone pathways, gravel beds, and bold architectural plantings, the result is a chic contemporary garden.
– Balcony and Patio Accessories
On patios and balconies, square or rectangular corten steel planters can be placed to divide spaces or serve as privacy screens while holding beautifully colored flowers or small trees.
– Indoor beauties
Small planters made of corten steel are perfect for indoor plants, providing a rustic industrial touch to your home, office, or reception area. Their subtle tones work well with natural wood, concrete, and stone.
– Artistic and Sculptural Displays
In addition to functional planting, corten steel planters can also serve as sculptural pieces. Their impressive design serves a dual purpose as an art piece to elevate the surrounding garden, even when not planted.
Conclusion
Corten steel planters are splendid any gardener would love to have. The apparent and natural rust patina as well as weather resistance make them a great addition for outdoor or garden patios, balconies, and even indoor rooms. Providing the planters with the correct sizing, shape, and placement as well as simple routine maintenance, splendid visuals and a wonderful backdrop can be maintained for many decades.
In moments of your relaxation, you can share these planters with your friends and the passionate landscapers, or even an interior designer for a modern touch. Their functionality paired with beauty fits harmoniously to any area.