5 Popular Material Options for Large Commercial Planters

Why does planter material matter so much in large-scale landscape design? In commercial environments (from plazas and campuses to hospitality spaces) the right material determines everything: longevity, texture, weight, and aesthetic tone.

Landscape designers know that material selection is both functional and expressive. It shapes the character and lifespan of a project, defining how a space will weather time and tell its story.

At Jackson Pottery Pro, we supply trade professionals with premium commercial planters that combine design impact and structural integrity. Every planter is built to perform in demanding environments while complementing the architect’s vision.

“Each material represents a totally different look. It’s less about which one lasts longer and more about what you want the project to say.” - Forrest Jackson, CEO of Jackson Pottery:

Understanding Material Performance in Commercial Environments

Choosing the right material begins with understanding the core trade-offs:

• Durability: Resistance to impact, UV exposure, and weather extremes.
  
  
• Weight & Handling: Important for rooftops, terraces, or tight installation spaces.
  
  
• Aesthetic Fit: Alignment with architectural tone and surrounding structures.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Successful projects balance function and expression, matching the material to the design’s purpose, location, and lifespan expectations.

5 Popular Material Options for Large Commercial Planters

1. Glazed Ceramic 

Known for its color depth and refined finish, glazed ceramic is ideal for courtyards, entryways, and hospitality installations. These kiln-fired planters deliver rich hues and high visual impact - perfect when craftsmanship and color take center stage.

• Frost-resistant with proper drainage.

• Adds artistry and permanence to upscale designs.

2. Terracotta

Terracotta offers organic warmth and breathability, favored for Mediterranean, rustic, and heritage-style landscapes. Its porous surface allows natural air exchange, promoting plant health.

• Works beautifully in mild climates or when sealed.

• Lighter hues moderate surface heat in sunny regions.

• A timeless, natural look for traditional architecture.

3. Metal

Sleek and contemporary, metal planters (including corten and powder-coated finishes) bring industrial precision and modern edge to urban projects.

• Excellent structural strength for high-traffic sites.

• Minimalist forms complement concrete, steel, and glass environments.

• Requires light maintenance in humid climates to preserve finish.

4. Cast Stone

The most architectural material choice, cast stone delivers unmatched stability and weight. With its sculpted surfaces and weatherproof composition, it stands as the cornerstone for long-term installations.

• Ideal for civic plazas, courtyards, and permanent designs.

• Engineered for high PSI strength ratings and structural reliability.

• Available in custom sizes and finishes for project-specific needs.

5. Resin / Fiberglass

Resin and fiberglass planters combine lightweight construction with durability, making them the go-to choice for rooftops and load-restricted areas.

• Easy to move, install, and reposition seasonally.

• UV-stable finishes resist fading and cracking.

• Excellent for flexible or modular commercial environments.

Matching Material Your Design Intent

Every material tells a story - and the best designs start with intention.

• Choose glazed or terracotta when warmth, color, and craftsmanship matter.
  
  
• Use metal or cast stone for permanence and architectural precision.
  
  
• Opt for resin or fiberglass when weight or flexibility is key.

Forrest Jackson says: “What do you want your finished project to say about you or the space? That’s what drives the material choice.”

By considering site conditions, architectural tone, and long-term maintenance, landscape architects can select materials that elevate both form and function.

The Jackson Pottery Pro Advantage

For more than four decades, Jackson Pottery has partnered with artisans worldwide to produce planters that merge craftsmanship and innovation.

At Jackson Pottery Pro, we’re focused exclusively on serving the trade (landscape architects, designers, and commercial contractors) who design at scale and demand excellence. From our Dallas-based headquarters, we maintain over eight acres of inventory and a 20,000-square-foot facility supporting projects across the U.S. We help professionals match the right materials to the right design, ensuring their projects deliver both visual and structural success.

Discover the right planter material for your next large-scale project with Jackson Pottery Pro.

FAQs

Which material lasts the longest outdoors?

Cast stone typically offers the longest lifespan, followed by glazed ceramic and powder-coated metal when properly maintained.

What’s the lightest option for rooftops or terraces?

Resin and fiberglass planters provide strength with minimal weight, making them ideal for elevated or load-restricted applications.

How can I decide which material fits my project best?

Start with your site and design intent:

• Use cast stone or metal for permanence.
  
  
• Use ceramic or terracotta for character.
  
  
• Use resin or fiberglass for flexibility and mobility.