Decorative Rocks and Pebbles
A simple layer of rocks or pebbles at the bottom of a planter serves both decorative and practical purposes. The rocks help with drainage while also providing a neutral base that allows the planter contents to really shine. Some options:
- River rocks in shades of gray, brown, tan or white
- Polished stones like quartz, marble or granite
- Colored glass pebbles or marbles
- Smooth beach pebbles in an array of natural hues
Mix various shapes and textures for visual interest. Keep the materials natural or go bold with painted or vividly colored stones.
Sand and Succulents
For a clean, beachy look, fill planters with a few inches of sand and top with an array of miniature succulents. Mix various succulent varieties, like echeveria, sedum, and sempervivum, for pleasing contrast in color and texture. This combination thrives with little care and brings a trendy, coastal vibe to your space.
Moss
Moss makes a lush, vibrant planting alternative and can grow right in the planter. Opt for mood moss sold on strips or sheets for easy installation. Keep the moss moist and out of direct sun for best results. For extra interest, incorporate stones, wood decor, figurines, or glass beads into the moss garden.
Potpourri
Dried botanicals like flowers, fruit, seeds, spices, and essential oils make up fragrant potpourri blends. Fill planters with citrus-scented mixes to welcome guests or relaxation-promoting lavender and chamomile. For longer-lasting aroma, choose potpourri withfixatives like orris root powder. Refresh the potpourri occasionally.
Decorative Bark or Mulch
Shredded bark and wood chips give a natural look reminiscent of a woodland floor. Options like cypress, cedar and pine bark add lovely color and texture. For variety, use different barks or mulches in each planter. Keep mulch several inches below the planter rim so it stays tidy. Topping with moss or small rocks dresses it up.
Sand Art
Get crafty with colorful sands and other materials. Layer different colors and textures of sand, beads, stones, or marbles in artistic designs. Or make sand art by adding decorations like sea shells, sea glass or driftwood on top of the sand. Have fun changing up the patterns.
Herbs and Vegetable Plants
In addition to ornamental plants, outdoor planters are ideal for herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary or small vegetable plants like peppers, lettuce, or strawberries. Make sure to provide good drainage and appropriate sunlight. The planters bring tasty plants right to your patio or steps.
Candles
Groupings of candles in coordinating colors and sizes make a pretty planter display, especially at night. Choose sturdy candles in glass containers secured in sand or glass pebbles to prevent tipping. Go for citronella candles to help repel insects. LED candles are another option for a soft glow without flames.
Seasonal Accents
Use planters to showcase seasonal decorations for the holidays and changing seasons. Fill with Easter eggs or flowers in spring, mini pumpkins and gourds in fall, pinecones and holly during winter, seashells in summer, and patriotic decor for Independence Day. The options are endless!
Water Features
The soothing sound of moving water makes a delightful addition to any patio or yard. There are self-contained water features like small tabletop fountains that work perfectly in planters. Include decorative stones and plants around the fountain for a pleasing scene.
Upcycled Items
Give new life to old items by repurposing them in outdoor planters. Possibilities include empty glass bottles or jars, stacked books, boxes or crates, children’s toys, trinkets, and vintage kitchenware. Spray paint makes these treasures pop. Arrange them in fun vignettes.
DIY Concrete Creations
Make custom planter fillers with concrete craft projects. Pour concrete into molds of your choice and embed decorative items like tiles, stones, marbles, beads, or broken glass. Paint or stain the finished pieces to suit your style. Your handmade creations will be conversation starters!
With this wide range of innovative ideas, your outdoor planters can overflow with beauty, interest, and your unique personality all season long – no plants required! From sandscapes to seasonal accents, the options for filling planters with and without plants are endless.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alternative Outdoor Planter Fillers
What materials work best in outdoor planters besides plants?
Durable, weather-resistant materials work best, like rocks, sand, gravel, wood, concrete, metal, glass, and stable natural botanicals like moss. Avoid anything that could easily blow away, deteriorate quickly, or be damaged by outdoor exposure.
How can I deter weeds in my outdoor planters filled with rocks or sand?
Use a weed barrier like landscape fabric or cardboard at the bottom of the planter before adding rocks, sand, or other filler. You can also top dress with materials like pea gravel or moss that inhibit weed growth. Hand pull any occasional weeds.
What kind of sand should I use in outdoor planters?
Opt for coarse builder’s sand rather than fine sand. The coarser texture provides better drainage. Make sure to use fresh, clean sand. Rinse salt and impurities if using beach sand.
How often should I refresh potpourri in my outdoor planters?
It depends on the climate and formula, but generally refreshing potpourri every 2-4 weeks will maintain optimal scent. Stirring or fluffing it occasionally also releases more aroma from dried botanicals.
Can I put food plants like vegetables and herbs in decorative planters?
Absolutely! Just make sure your planters allow for proper drainage via holes, gravel bottoms, and breathable materials. Minimum depth of 12” is best for vegetable roots. Maintain soil fertility with regular feeding.
What kind of paint is best for decorating and waterproofing DIY concrete planter fillers?
Acrylic craft paints specifically made for decorating outdoor concrete work well for color. For sealing, use an exterior-grade sealer made for concrete. Read labels to ensure suitability.
Conclusion
Outdoor planters are a terrific way to add personality and visual interest to your outdoor living space with or without live plants. Whether you prefer natural elements like river rocks, sand, moss and gravel or repurposed decorative items, the possibilities are endless. Choosing weather-resistant fillers that match your style will let your planters make a stylish statement indoors and out all year round. With a bit of creativity, you can put almost anything in an outdoor planter besides plants to create unique and eye-catching displays.