Our exclusive pure copper planters from Turkey evoke images of wandering through an exotic marketplace filled with treasures of the East yet retain classic styling sure to enhance any décor. Whether a graceful urn or sleek geometric shape these planters will tastefully elevate any planting.
Copper is a natural material and the finish will change over time, usually from bright copper to a dull brown and eventually to a verdigris patina. Outdoors these changes will occur more quickly, but it is to be expected indoors as well. Copper may be cleaned with a copper cleaner such as “Bartender’s Friend,” or a simple solution of salt and vinegar.
The elegance and durability of copper makes it an ideal material for pots and planters. Copper in this form is “fixed” and only small amounts may leach into the soil over a long period of time. It is also unlikely to be available to plants unless the PH of the soil is very acidic—roughly 3.0 (PH of average soil is 5 to 7). Copper treated pots are commonly used in growing facilities to encourage root branching when root tips touch the sides of the pot, preventing circling roots and creating a more substantial more evenly distributed root system. Copper also tends to deter slugs and snails.
Metal planters will heat more quickly than other materials. This can be beneficial for plants that require warm soil in early growth stages, such as basil. If placed in full sun the soil may become too warm for some plants, retarding root growth, so metal planters should either be placed in the shade or lined with a material such as bubble wrap. Such a lining is recommended for any planter where plants will be overwintered in cold climates. Lining is also a simple option should there be any concerns with copper leaching with sensitive plants.
For outdoor plantings, containers should be requested with drainage holes. For indoor plants they may be either planted directly or used as a cache pot. In no case should water in the bottom of a cache pot or saucer be allowed to remain more than 15 minutes.
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Our copper products, while they may be given a finish of antiquing or copper patina, etc., are left in their natural state. They are not sealed unless specifically noted. Waxing is not the same as sealing a metal. Our copper products will patina or tarnish. Many things affect this. The oils in your fingertips will even affect copper. Different water types will affect how the copper changes. Dripping fertilizer on a copper product will tarnish it.
We believe copper only gets better with age; but we want to be abundantly clear to all who purchase our copper products that they will change, whether used indoors or outdoors. If you wish to keep your item shiny like new, you will need to seal it. We have found good success with the below product, and they are always glad to help you choose the correct product for your item.
https://www.everbritecoatings.com/copper
Example of one of our natural copper birdbaths left to change on its own.