It is essential that water can drain freely from your garden container’s drainage holes. We recommend a sheet of filter screen over the drainage holes and adding 2-3 inches of crushed stone at the bottom of the container before filling with a potting soil intended for use in containers. Likewise, we recommend use of a liner in our wooden Versailles Boxes to protect the longevity of your planter box. We recommend using a well-draining soil mix and placing decorative mulch, bark, or stone as the top layer on your potting soil to prevent water from pooling.

Any piece which can hold water, snow or ice, such as a planter or container, can be damaged by the winter freeze-thaw cycles. In winter, we recommend storing your container in a dry place out of the elements. If the container must be left out in the winter, ensure that the container is elevated an inch or more off the ground with pot feet or wedges. If a planter is to remain planted over the winter, we suggest that it be stored in a covered area where it will be protected from the elements. If a container is to be left outside unplanted, we suggest that it be emptied and turned upside down onto wood strips. It should then be covered or wrapped with burlap or any absorbent material (old blanket/towel) and then wrapped with dark plastic. This will prevent moisture from accumulating in the planter. Please note that even if a container is raised off the ground, there is always the risk that the container will absorb water through its surface which, when frozen, can cause the planter to crack or break. Use of saucers outdoors in winter is not recommended.