Planter Pot FAQs: Your Questions, All Potted Up

If you’ve ever stared at an empty planter pot wondering what flowers to plant, how to style it for maximum curb appeal, or whether it can even survive the winter months, this one’s for you.

Below, we answer the most common questions about modern planter pots and how to utilize them for enhancing curb appeal, container gardening, and seasonal design.

1. What Size Planter Pot Do I Need for My Plants?

The size of your planter pot should depend on the type of plant you're using and where you plan to place it. For small, delicate herbs (or fake succulents), select a compact planter pot with sufficient space for their shallow roots. Larger plants, such as robust ferns, small trees, or tall grasses, thrive best in large, modern planter pots that offer greater depth and stability.

Small planter pot recommendations from Post & Porch:

• The Holbrook Planter Pot
• The Milard Planter Pot
• The Heritage Planter Pot

Large planter pot recommendations from Post & Porch:

• The Millcreek Planter Pot
• The Serene Planter Pot
• The Serene Planter Pot Bundle

2. Do Planter Pots Really Need Drainage Holes?

Yes, drainage holes are essential in planter pots. They prevent excess water from pooling at the bottom, which can cause root rot and mold. Most high-quality modern planter pots come with built-in drainage, but if not, you can drill holes or use a layer of gravel to improve water flow.

How to add drainage to a modern planter pot (if it doesn’t already have holes):

1. Check the Bottom of the Planter Pot: Look for pre-marked spots or a center point where drainage holes can be added safely. Some have little indentations to help you out.
2. Choose the Right Drill Bit: Use a masonry or ceramic drill bit, depending on your modern planter pot material (e.g., stone, fiberglass, plastic, glass, or concrete).
3. Drill Slowly and Steadily: Place the planter pot on a towel for stability. Drill 2 to 4 small holes spaced evenly at the bottom. Don’t press too hard – let the bit do the work.
4. Add a Layer of Gravel or Pebbles: Before adding soil, place an inch of gravel or small rocks at the bottom of your modern planter pot to improve drainage and protect roots.
5. Optional: Add a Mesh Screen: To prevent any soil from leaking out of your planter pot, place a mesh screen or piece of landscape fabric over the holes before filling with soil.
6. Water Test: Add a small amount of water to ensure it drains properly before planting.

3. What Material Is Best for a Modern Outdoor Planter Pot?

The best material for a modern outdoor planter pot is one that strikes a balance between durability and clean design. Ficonstone, fiberglass, and concrete are all weather-resistant materials and offer a sleek look that complements modern curb appeal. These ultra-strong materials for planter pots are also known to resist cracking, fading, and chipping over time.

Post & Porch’s modern planter pots are 80% concrete and ficonstone, meaning they stand up to anything you or life throws their way. Bad weather? No prob. High wind? They can handle it.

4. Can I Leave My Planter Pots Outside All Year Long?

You can leave your planter pots outside year-round as long as they're made from weather-resistant materials. Modern planter pots built with UV and frost protection are designed to withstand all four seasons; just be sure they drain properly to avoid frozen soil.

Tips for keeping your modern planter pots outdoors all year long:

→ Choose Weather-Resistant Materials: Look for modern planter pots made from ficonstone, concrete, or fiberglass. These materials resist cracking, fading, and warping in heat and cold.

→ Elevate Your Pots: Use pot risers or place your planter pot on bricks to lift it slightly off the ground. This helps with drainage and prevents the planter base from freezing to patios or decks.

→ Avoid Soil Saturation in Winter: Wet soil expands when it freezes. To prevent your planter pot from cracking, make sure it drains freely and never stays soggy during the colder months.

→ Use Hardy Plants or Faux Greenery: For a dash of winter curb appeal, swap in some evergreens, cold-tolerant plants, or faux succulents designed for outdoor use. Your modern planter pot will still look stylish and chic, even when nothing’s blooming during the chilly winter.

→ Cover or Store If Needed: If your area gets ice or snow, consider moving any lightweight planter pots under a covered porch or using breathable covers to protect them during blizzards.

5. How Do I Keep Planter Pots From Tipping Over in Windy Areas?

To keep a modern planter pot from tipping, choose one with a wide, stable base. You can also weigh it down by adding gravel, bricks, or stones to the bottom before filling with soil. This works especially well for tall planter pots placed on open front porches or breezy patios.

Tips to keep planter pots from tipping over in windy areas:

• Choose Wide, Stable Planter Pots: Look for modern planter pots with a broad base and low center of gravity, especially for taller plant styles like ornamental grasses.
• Weigh Down the Bottom: Add gravel, bricks, or large stones to the base of your planter pot before filling it with any soil to anchor it in place. The wind won’t know what to do.
• Avoid Lightweight Plastic Pots Outdoors: Thin plastic pots may tip easily in the wind. Opt for heavier planter materials like ficonstone, concrete, or ceramic for better stability.
• Place Planter Pots Against a Wall or Corner: Reduce your home’s wind exposure by positioning modern tall planter pots near a wall, porch pillar, or railing.
• Group Planter Pots Together: Arranging multiple pots in a cluster can provide mutual support and distribute wind pressure more evenly. Learn about planter pot layering here.
• Use Pot Feet or Risers Strategically: While risers help with drainage, make sure they don’t elevate your modern planter pots too much if tipping is a concern in high winds.
• Don’t Overfill With Tall, Top-Heavy Plants: Keep the plant-to-pot ratio in balance. Tall plants in small pots can act like sails, so size up the base or choose compact foliage.
• Secure With Hooks or Brackets: For extreme weather zones, consider securing planter pots to the ground or railing using discreet garden brackets or anchor systems.

6. What Can I Plant in Modern Planter Pots on My Front Porch?

Modern planter pots are extremely versatile when it comes to what to plant.

On your front porch, try delicate flowers like petunias, lavender, or pansies in spring and summer. In the fall, consider ornamental cabbage, pumpkins, or mums. For winter curb appeal, evergreen shrubs or faux succulents in your decorative planter pots work beautifully.

Here’s a season-based breakdown of what to plant in your modern planter pots:

→ Spring: Best for fresh blooms and a curb appeal reset

• Tulips
• Daffodils
• Hyacinths
• Pansies
• Snapdragons

→ Summer: Go bold with color and texture

• Petunias
• Geraniums
• Calibrachoa
• Sweet potato vine
• Lavender

→ Fall: Rich tones and hearty textures

• Mums
• Ornamental kale or cabbage
• Asters
• Heuchera
• Small pumpkins or gourds

→ Winter: Evergreen structure and subtle charm

• Boxwood
• Mini conifers
• Holly with berries
• Fake succulents, pine stems, or eucalyptus
• Dried branches or birch logs

7. Do Planter Pots Work Better Indoors or Outdoors?

Planter pots can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Modern planter pots are especially popular for front porches, patios, and entryways, but smaller versions of these planters are also great for interior design. Just make sure the pot’s material suits the environment; indoor planters don’t require the same level of weather resistance.

When using planter pots indoors, you can focus more on style and less on durability. Lightweight materials, such as ceramic or decorative fiberglass, work well inside, and you won’t need drainage holes if you're using a liner or faux plant, like Post & Porch’s fake succulents.

Indoor modern planter pots often feature sleeker finishes and neutral tones that blend seamlessly with contemporary interiors – think living rooms, entry tables, and kitchen shelves. Just remember to pair them with saucers or trays to protect floors and furniture from water.

Best plants for indoor planter pots:

• → Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Low-maintenance and striking, perfect for tall planter pots.
• → Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Great for trailing over the edges of indoor planter pots.
• → ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Tolerates low light and irregular watering.
• → Peace Lily: Elegant and air-purifying; thrives in medium light with regular watering.
• → Spider Plant: Hardy and fast-growing, with fun arching leaves and baby offshoots.
• → Fiddle Leaf Fig: A bold plant that loves bright light – looks best in large indoor pots.
• → Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica): Dark green leaves that pair perfectly with black planter pots.
• → Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema): Colorful, patterned leaves that thrive in low light.
• → Parlor Palm: Brings a tropical vibe to indoor spaces in decorative modern planter pots.
• → Succulents: Compact and low-maintenance – great for small planter pots on windowsills.

8. What Color Planter Pot Should I Choose?

The best planter pot color depends on your home’s aesthetic and curb appeal.

Neutral tones like black, white, and beige complement modern homes. A black planter pot adds contrast and drama, while lighter shades, such as white or tan planter pots, keep things super airy. You can also coordinate with other curb appeal accessories, like house numbers, fake succulents, hose holders, address plaques, outdoor lighting, and modern mailboxes.

Here’s a quick planter pot pairing guide for your home’s unique curb appeal:

• Black Planter Pots: Looks sharp with white, gray, brick, or wood-tone homes.
• White Planter Pots: Pairs beautifully with black, navy, or coastal-toned exteriors.
• Beige/Tan Planter Pots: Great with cream, stucco, or warm-toned siding.
• Gray Planter Pots: Complements both light and dark modern homes.
• Terracotta Planter Pots: Ideal for Mediterranean, Spanish, or desert-style homes.
• Green Planter Pots: Works well with wood siding or nature-inspired palettes.
• Blue Planter Pots: Pops against white, tan, or coastal-style homes.
• Red Planter Pots: Great for farmhouse or brick exteriors.
• Patina Planter Pots: Beautiful with black, brown, or historic homes.

9. Are Modern Planter Pots Heavy?

The weight of a modern planter pot depends on the material it’s made of.

Modern planter pots made of concrete or stone are much heavier, which adds stability outdoors. Ficonstone or fiberglass planter pots are much lighter, making them easier to move around. These lightweight planter options still offer that sleek, modern look without the extra weight.

Here are some common planter pot materials:

• Concrete: Very heavy and durable. Great for windy areas or permanent setups.
• Stone: Similar to concrete in weight and look. Often used for classic or luxury exteriors.
• Ficonstone: Blend of fiberglass, cement, and stone. Looks like concrete but lighter.
• Fiberglass: Ultra-light and modern. Easy to move and highly weather-resistant.
• Plastic/Resin: Lightweight and affordable. Best for indoor or shaded outdoor use.
• Metal: Sleek and durable, but can get hot in full sun.
• Ceramic: Stylish with lots of color options, but prone to cracking in extreme cold.
• Terracotta: Classic and breathable. Ideal for dry climates, but can be fragile.

10. Can I Use the Same Planter Pot for Different Seasons?

Absolutely. One of the best things about modern planter pots is their versatility. Swap out plants or decorative accents to match the season. For example, use tulips and daffodils in spring, then transition to mini pumpkins or faux stems in fall, without ever replacing the planter.

Instead of swapping out the entire planter pot, just refresh what’s inside:

→ Spring: Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, or trailing sweet peas

→ Summer: Geraniums, petunias, ornamental grasses, or fake succulents

→ Fall: Mini pumpkins, mums, faux stems, or dried grasses

→ Winter: Evergreen sprigs, pinecones, holiday ribbons, or outdoor lighting

11. How Do I Clean Planter Pots Between Seasons?

Seasonal cleaning helps your planter pots last longer and keeps plants ultra-healthy.

Here’s how to clean your modern planter pots:

• Step 1: Remove any old soil, roots, or plant debris.
• Step 2: Rinse the planter pot thoroughly with water.
• Step 3: Wash with mild dish soap and a soft brush or sponge.
• Step 4: For extra sanitizing (especially after mold or plant disease), use a 1:1 vinegar and water solution, or a mix of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water.
• Step 5: Rinse again and let the planter pot air-dry completely before replanting.

Post & Porch Pro Tip: Avoid harsh scrubbers on ficonstone planter pots to protect the finish.

12. Are Planter Pots Pet-Safe?

The planter pots themselves are usually pet-safe, but it’s the plants you need to watch.

Most modern planter pots, especially those made from materials like ficonstone or ceramic, are pet-safe and non-toxic. The real concern is what you plant in them. If your dog or cat has a habit of sniffing, digging, or nibbling, it’s important to choose pet-friendly plants.

→ Pet-safe options: Marigolds, rosemary, snapdragons, cat grass, or spider plants

→ Toxic to pets: Lilies, sago palm, aloe vera, daffodils, and tulip bulbs

If any of your pets roam near your outdoor planter pots or bring the occasional chew session indoors, it’s worth double-checking plant toxicity with your vet or using the ASPCA’s toxic plant list as a guide.

Post & Porch Pro Tip: You can also use natural deterrents, such as citrus peels, coffee grounds, or safe repellent sprays, if you're concerned about pets digging in your planter pots.

13. Can I Use a Planter Pot Without a Saucer?

Yes, you can use a planter pot without a saucer, but it depends on where you’re placing it and how much drainage you need. If your planter pot has built-in drainage and is being used outdoors, you can often skip the saucer. Water will naturally drain into the ground or evaporate.

For indoor planter pots, however, a saucer is highly recommended: They catch excess water and prevent it from seeping onto floors, furniture, or shelves, especially important if your planter pot is placed on hardwood or carpet. Many planter pots include a coordinating saucer or hidden base for a minimal look that still protects your surfaces.

14. How Do I Style Multiple Planter Pots Together?

To style multiple planter pots, it’s all about harmony, balance, contrast, and cohesion.

Styling multiple modern planter pots can instantly elevate your curb appeal or outdoor living space. To create a polished, intentional look with multiple planter pots, try these tips:

→ Mix heights and shapes: Use a combination of tall, medium, and small pots to add depth.

→ Keep the color palette cohesive: Stick to one or two complementary tones for curation.

→ Think in layers: Place taller pots in the back or at the corners, and smaller pots in front.

→ Use odd numbers: Group your planter pots in sets of 3 or 5 for a more organic vibe.

→ Add variety through plants: Combine different textures and plant colors.

15. Where Can I Find High-Quality Modern Planter Pots?

Look for modern planter pots from brands that prioritize design and durability. At Post & Porch, our planter pot collection is handcrafted for year-round curb appeal, using premium materials like ficonstone and concrete in modern silhouettes that suit any front porch.

Here’s an overview of Post & Porch’s standout modern planter pot collection:

• The Milard: Bold and angular, this durable, contemporary planter comes in 2 sizes and 2 colors (black and beige) and is built to spark curb appeal conversation.
• The Millcreek: Made from fiberstone, this sleek planter combines modern aesthetics with enduring craftsmanship in black or grey.
• The Heritage: Tall and refined with just the right dose of personality, this planter comes in black or grey for sophisticated simplicity.
• The Holbrook: Small and angular, it blends seamlessly into any modern space and comes in black or grey.
• The Serene: Lightweight and weather-resistant, this timeless piece comes in 3 sizes and 2 color options (black or grey).

What customers are saying about Post & Porch planter pots:

→ “The Serene planter pots were the perfect addition to my front porch. They are beautiful. I was worried my kids would eventually break these things, but I don't think that is possible.” – Charles

→ “We can’t get enough of the modern planter pots by Post & Porch. Not only do they come in lots of colors and shapes, but they’re all exceptionally well-built and look good in front of any house. We’ll be buying the whole planter pot bundle next time!” – Jordan

→ “Awesome quality, was very happy with my planter pot purchase. Very solid and durable. Would highly recommend this product!” – Dennis

→ “Looks great and made my back porch look a lot cleaner.” – Jamison

→ “Very nice looking. It has pre-drilled holes in the bottom for drainage for plants.” – Amanda

Transform your curb appeal with Post & Porch’s modern planter pots today.