If you are unable to grow flowers or do not wish to, artificial flowers are a wonderful substitute. A planter outside can be filled up to look fairly realistic with the right materials.
Here are a few of the best methods for adding artificial flowers to an outdoor planter.
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Can Artificial Flowers and Plants Be Used Outside?
These are specially designed to be used outside in direct sunlight. In the same way that umbrella fabric for outdoor pillows and cushions blocks ultraviolet light from fading and harming artificial plants, UV protection does the same.
Some of the artificialplants are made of plastic, which aids in rain and cleaning.
The landscaping of some homes includes artificial plants that have UV protection.
Even though their lifespan is obviously shorter than that of a perennial plant, they can be a great addition to your landscaping when you have small gaps that need to be filled.
How Long Do Artificial Flowers and Plants Last Outside?
Whether artificial flowers and plants are in direct sunlight or under cover will affect how long they will last.
They are durable enough to withstand the elements for many years and don’t fade, but if they’re on a front porch or patio under cover from the sun, they’ll last even longer.
Of course, this will also depend on the materials used to make it, so look for UV-protected and polyethylene blend materials.
How to Fill An Outdoor Planter With Artificial Flowers
Florists Foam
Foam for florists is essentially made for this purpose. It is simple to use: just put some in a planter and insert the flowers. While florists foam may not be the most appealing material, it serves its purpose. Use the dry version (rather than the wet version) and avoid getting it wet because it will quickly rot.
Gravel
Gravel will work just fine if you only have a small planter and would prefer to use it to hold a whole artificial plant rather than cut flowers. Simply bury the plant in the planter after filling it with gravel. With artificial succulents, this looks especially good.
Soil
You can use regular soil to achieve a more realistic appearance, just like with gravel. Put some florists foam in the bottom of the planter for convenience, then add a thin layer of soil on top. Sand can accomplish the same task.
Gardener’s Wire
If you don’t think the “soil” will be seen, you can skip this step altogether and just hold the plants in place with wire. The gardening wire is ideal for this task because it is thin and flexible. It will be a good choice for hanging baskets where you might use plants like ivy or trailing plants, for example.
Epoxy Resin
Although it might not be the most affordable choice, this works well to simulate water. Basically, a plastic that can be poured, clear epoxy resin when it hardens takes on the appearance of water in a vase. Combine the two components, pour them into your vase, and then arrange your artificial flowers on top.
Naturally, this is only worthwhile if the vase is transparent. Just use gardener’s wire to create opaque vases.
Tips on How to Fill An Outdoor Planter With Artificial Flowers
Build a Firm Base
A sizable piece of floral foam adhered to the base of your planter will help hold wire stems in place. Building layers that resemble the planting process is the secret to creating a chic outdoor faux arrangement. An arrangement that appears genuine endures, and has longevity is the desired outcome. Regular floral foam can be adhered with glue to produce a sturdy base that keeps stems in their designated locations. Removing the stems will allow you to reuse the foam until new foam is required as the seasons’ change and you update your designs.
Stay True to Season and Growing Zone
If you want your curb appeal to appear authentic, stick to the planting zone and growing season. Invest in evergreen stems and add a dash of color to them with pinecones, red, or white berry stems. Visit a nearby garden center to find seasonal ideas if you’re a novice gardener and are unsure of what should be peeking out of your window boxes come November.
Buy Quality Stems
If you’re going to spend money on artificial flowers to fill your window boxes, go all out. Pay a little bit more for those designed for outdoor display. This kind of artificial stem typically uses stronger materials and offers additional UV protection. The best place to buy artificial stems that resemble real ones is at your neighborhood craft store. Compared to dollar and discount stores, they typically offer much higher quality stems.
Don’t Forget the Mulch
To keep live flowers in an outdoor planter lush and green, a layer of mulch is necessary. Once you’ve secured your stems in the floral foam, go the extra mile and finish off your artificial arrangements by adding a pretty, vibrant mulch. Add a few small stones for realism and interest and sit back to enjoy the boost your newly “planted” flower boxes add to your home’s curb appeal.
Final Thoughts
Your outdoor planter should look great filled with artificial flowers if you choose one of these options. Choose your look before making a decision. Wire or florists foam will work just fine if you don’t care. However, expect to pay a little bit more for more realistic-looking appearances.