Weights in these listings range from lightweight polyresin pots at around 3 lb to ceramic pots near 11 lb. Heavier planters — or those designed so you can add sand or gravel to the outer wall — are generally more stable in windy conditions.
Most planters are sized for freestanding placement on porches, decks, or patios. There are also half-circle wall planters designed to hang on fences or walls; these typically include nail/screw holes for mounting.
Many planters arrive ready to use with no assembly required. Larger raised beds typically need adult assembly with tools. Lightweight wall or half-circle planters are usually ready to hang and include nail/screw holes.
Self-watering options in these listings include half-circle wall planters with a bottom reservoir and indoor/outdoor raised garden boxes or beds equipped with a self-watering disk plus drain holes to retain water.
Double-walled planters with a full-depth inner wall are described as insulating roots, and ceramic pots are also noted for buffering temperature fluctuations to help protect roots during cold spells.
If you add a drainage hole to a non-draining pot, use a protective saucer to catch runoff. Some ceramic sets include saucers with raised edges that collect excess water and soil, which is helpful for indoor porch use.