Material

Price

Lifespan

Weight

Colour Fade?

Colour Variety

Additional Notes

Polyethylene Resin

Inexpensive

Very Long (10years +)

Extremely Lightweight

No (UVA and UVB resistant)

Many (We have 18 colours and finishes)

Stays cooler and looses moisture slowly. Winter-proof

Concrete

Expensive (24x24x18 planter = $360)

Long  (5 years +)

Very heavy

(24x24x18 is 400lbs)

Yes, but over time (2-5 years)

Many, but only one finish (concrete)

Won’t be knocked over, insulated, holds moisture, too heavy to move, Winter-proof, will crack

Metal

Expensive

Short (2-3 years)

Moderately Heavy

Yes, and rusts (sometimes seen as a positive)

Low selection (depends on material)

Heats quickly, and looses moisture quickly. Winter-proof. Will Crack

Terracotta

Inexpensive to Very expensive based on manufacturer

Short (1-2 Seasons unless extra care is taken)

Heavy

No, but discolours due to nutrients leeching through.

Limited

Not winter-proof, picks up colour easily, holds moisture, and stays cooler. Leaves stains

Wood

Moderate

Moderate depending on the type of wood used.

Heavy

Natural finish: yes

Paint: yes, but to a lesser degree.

Natural finish: Wood grains

Paint: Many

Colour/Finish: Regular maintenance required

Can rot, insulated, holds moisture, keeps cool. Will crack.

Fiberglass

Depends on Manufacturer – Low to High

Moderate-Long

Very Light

Depends on Manufacturer – avg 5-7 years

Diverse based on manufacturer

Very similar to Resin however it is a little more brittle than resin planters. 2 year warranty, finish will crack/fade