Operation and Maintenance

All Urban Pot planters are extremely durable and will provide decades of sustained use without mechanical problems.

Urban Pot planters require no maintenance from a hardware or mechanical standpoint, but in terms of daily use we recommend the following “best practice” guidelines

Maintenance and care of metal planters (Aluminum, Corten, etc.)

Custom aluminum planters: durable, lightweight, and built to last

Our custom planters are made from 5052-H32 (marine grade) aluminum, a high-performance alloy commonly used in the aerospace and marine industries. This material offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, high corrosion resistance, and excellent long-term durability - ideal qualities for containers exposed to the elements.

Aluminium 5052-H32 is also highly recyclable, making it an environmentally-friendly solution. Each planter can be reused or recycled without performance loss, considerably reducing its ecological footprint.

Corrosion protection: Powder coat

Although aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion, elements such as de-icing salt or certain chemical fertilizers can damage its surface over the long term—just as they can damage stainless steel. That's why we apply a baked-on powder coat, which forms a long-lasting protective barrier.

Unlike steel, corrosion will not progress below the surface if the paint flakes. Aluminum doesn't rust expansively, guaranteeing enhanced structural protection even in the event of impact or scratching.

Prepare your planters for winter.

Cold in itself does not harm aluminum. However, freezing water expands by around 10%, which can cause cracks or deformation if the planter is full of water. Here are our tips for optimum protection in winter:

To limit the space where water can collect, fill planters with soil up to about 2-3 cm (1") from the edge.
Use topsoil rather than potting soil, as it retains less moisture, reducing the risk of frost.
Covering planters during the winter is optional, but it can provide additional protection against snow and debris.

Research results suggest that planters should not be filled with more than one inch of polystyrene or gravel. Contrary to popular belief, gravel does not drain the soil. Soil holds water until it's saturated, and gravel can slow pot drainage.

Instead of using polystyrene or gravel, we recommend using a lightweight mix specially designed for container gardening.

Maintenance and care of concrete, resin and fiberglass planters

Urban Pot planters are designed to withstand the elements thanks to durable materials such as resin (polyethylene), fiber-reinforced concrete and fiberglass.

Positioning the planter

Always place the planter in a well-drained area to avoid the accumulation of water or snow around the base. Prolonged stagnation can cause premature wear, especially in areas subject to repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Winter protection: simple but essential

Our planters are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including frost. However, to prolong their life :

In case of extreme cold, insulate the walls with bubble wrap or move the planter to a sheltered spot.
Cold alone won't damage them, but stagnant water inside can: when it freezes, it expands by around 10%, which can crack even the toughest materials.

To avoid this:

Before winter, fill the planter with soil to within about 2-3 cm (1 in.) of the top edge.
Use topsoil (not potting soil): it contains less organic matter and retains less moisture.
Covering the planter over winter is sometimes useful, although this is not obligatory.

Use a light, well-aerated potting soil mix specially designed for container gardening. This type of substrate ensures good drainage and promotes healthy plant growth.

Seasonal maintenance checklist for outdoor planters (concrete, aluminum, fiberglass, resin)

Follow these simple steps to extend the life of your Urban Pot planters and ensure optimum performance in every season.

Spring

Inspect painted surfaces for scratches and wear
Check drainage
Replace or refresh potting soil if necessary

Summer

Watch for salt (fertilizer) build-up on edges
Clean outside walls with a soft cloth and lukewarm water

Fall

Remove dead leaves that can retain moisture
Check soil filling level

Winter

Make sure the planter is well drained.
Optional: cover or relocate depending on climate