Corten steel, with its unique rusty appearance and remarkable weather-resistant properties, has gained huge popularity in architectural and landscaping applications. However, its suitability for nurturing plants is a question that often arises. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits of using corten steel planters for plant growth and address common concerns. Let's explore whether corten steel is a good choice for your plants!
Plant Protection
Corten Steel planters are renowned for their exceptional durability and unmatched weather resistance, making them an excellent solution for safeguarding plants. The inherent strength of Corten Steel allows it to withstand the most extreme weather conditions without compromising its structural integrity. Its remarkable durability ensures that the planters retain their robustness over time, offering long-lasting protection. Additionally, the unique composition of Corten Steel and the formation of a protective rust layer on its surface enhance its resistance to corrosion, making it highly resilient in any outdoor environment.
Is Corten Steel safe for growing food/vegetables?
Yes, they are a safe choice for growing food and vegetables, particularly for those concerned about potential contamination from treated timber structures or the use of chemicals. Unlike treated timber, Corten Steel does not require any paint or chemical treatment, ensuring that there are no harmful substances that can leak into the soil and affect the plants. While small amounts of zinc and iron can seep into the soil over time, these natural minerals are present in such minimal quantities that they will not have any significant impact on your plants.
Do corten planters get too hot in the summer?
Steel planters have the ability to conduct heat and may feel warm to the touch after being exposed to the sun. While the temperature of the soil near the edges of the planter may rise on warm days, you shouldn't need to worry about your plants drying up as long as you water them properly.
However, if you have concerns about excessive heat, you can take additional measures such as insulating the inside of the planters to avoid direct contact between the soil and the steel. On hot days, you can also consider moving smaller pots or planters on wheels to shaded areas to further mitigate potential heat issues.
Drainage and Why it's Important
Proper drainage is crucial for healthy plant growth. It helps prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. Our range of Corten planters comes with drainage holes as standard, ensuring that excess water can escape. We also offer an option for raised feet which helps to improve water exit, air circulation and prevents pests from entering the pot, further enhancing plant health.
Choosing the right size and shape
Choosing the right planter involves careful consideration of its size, based on the type of plant, its growth habits, and the extent of its roots. Larger species like trees or substantial shrubs necessitate deep, spacious planters to comfortably accommodate their expansive roots. In contrast, smaller plants typically do well in more compact, shallower containers.
For fully grown plants, we suggest selecting a planter that provides at least an inch of additional space around the current root spread. If you're considering multiple plants in one container, be sure to factor in each plant's mature size to ensure the planter provides sufficient room for individual growth. Similarly, for young or newly planted specimens, anticipate their growth and choose a planter that can accommodate their size at maturity.
While the shape of the planter doesn't directly impact the plant's health, certain planter shapes are more suited to specific types of plants, enhancing their natural beauty and complementing their growth habits.
Company profile
Founded in 2008, Gnee (Tianjin) Supply Chain Group Co., Ltd. specializes in the global trade and processing of Corten steel products.
• We handle all kinds of Corten engineering projects, such as bridges, gardens, hotels, and facade systems.
• Compliant with ASTM, EN, and other international standards; third-party inspection supported.
• Exported to over 200 countries and regions worldwide.
• 8 subsidiaries across China and overseas, ensuring global service coverage.
Application Fields: Architecture, landscaping, gardening, cladding, and urban infrastructure.
