Garden planter ideas: 18 wooden, metal and terracotta containers for patios, decking, porches and paths

Our garden planter ideas are a fabulous way to take any plot up a notch. No matter how much space or gardening experience you have, they're an easy and effective way to make a stylish statement.

Planters offer a huge range of versatility and the opportunity for you to get creative. For instance, they can be updated throughout the seasons for year-round color, or filled with your favorite evergreens for a modern, structured look. You can even use them to grow veggies and herbs, or fill them with ornamental grasses to create a screen between zones as part of your container gardening. 

However, the actual style of the planter is not one to overlook. There are lots of options available and the right container can be a feature in itself, regardless of what you put in it. For instance, a super-sized planter will pack a punch and look gorgeous with a mix of cascading blooms, and can also be used to divide up a space. Treated timber designs are perfect for a more country-classic feel, while modern metal will set a contemporary tone. 

Want to find the right garden planter ideas for your plot? We've brought together some of our very favorite designs to get you inspired – we're sure you'll find one you love from this mix. 

BY SARAH WILSON, HOLLY CROSSLEY