CAST BRONZE PLANTERS
Large planters can be spectacular additions to any landscape décor. While there are a variety or styles, sizes, and materials available, most readily available planters are either made from a composite resin based materials or cast in molds with concrete. In the Colorado climate, and many other places as well, large planters can sometimes pose problems. Many composite planters tend to deform and sag over time in the hot summer heat or can get brittle, with exposure to UV light, over time. And, concrete planters tend to crack in the harsh freeze-thaw cycles of Colorado winters (see photo to left). Frustrated with having to replace planters after only one or two seasons, a client reached out to see if we could help. Cast bronze seemed to be the solution. We could create the desired look and style, with a material that would virtually last forever. These planters were installed in 2014 and are as beautiful today, as they were then. The patina simply deepening in character over time.
Cast by RIchard DeVuono of Bronze-Depot in Florida, we worked together with the design and finish, to meet the client's requirements. By custom designing the size and shape of the planters, we could actually accommodate the temporary pots that the landscaper utilized for his pre-grown arrangements. This significantly reduced the amount of work required when changing the arrangements seasonally.
One element to consider with selecting and working with large planters, is that planters themselves, along with the soil and plantings, can get quite heavy. It is critical to make sure that the planters are located in stable locations that can adequately support the weight. And that the planters are anchored in place securely to ensure they are stable. Even a planter that appears stable can topple over quite easily in the wind, or as weight in the planter shifts with watering or growth of the plantings. One additional note, when selecting anchors, is work with compatible metals. Selecting incompatible metals can lead to degradation and failure of the material though a process known as galvanic corrosion.
While certainly more expensive than some other large planter options, there can be tremendous value in custom designed planters. Whether it's a reduction in the necessary seasonal labor to maintain and update plantings, or simply enjoying something that will last year after year, custom designed planters can be a feature elements with lasting value in any landscaping layout.
