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The short answer: To choose the best wall planter, focus on size, material, drainage, mounting system, and plant compatibility; our detailed tips below will help you compare and pick the right one for your space.
Before buying a wall planter, measure your available wall space and consider the mature size of the plants you want to grow. A planter that is too small will restrict root growth and require frequent watering, while one that is too large can overwhelm a small wall. For trailing plants like pothos or ivy, a planter 6 to 10 inches deep works well. For succulents, shallower options around 4 inches are ideal. Remember that wall planters add visual weight; a large planter on a small wall can feel unbalanced. As a rule of thumb, the planter width should be about one third to one half of the wall width for a pleasing proportion.
Each material has tradeoffs in durability, weight, and style. Plastic planters (e.g., polypropylene or resin) are lightweight, affordable, and retain moisture well, but may fade in direct sun. Metal planters (aluminum, steel, or iron) offer a modern look but can heat up quickly, potentially harming roots; they also need drainage holes to prevent rust. Ceramic and terracotta are heavy, porous, and breathable, which helps prevent overwatering but requires more frequent watering. Wood planters (cedar or teak) are naturally rot resistant and offer a warm aesthetic, but they need sealing to withstand moisture. For outdoor use, choose UV resistant materials like powder coated metal or thick plastic. Indoors, almost any material works as long as it has proper drainage.
Proper drainage is critical for plant health. Look for planters with drainage holes to prevent root rot. If you love a planter without holes, you can use it as a cachepot: keep the plant in a plastic nursery pot with holes and place it inside the decorative planter. Some wall planters come with a built in water reservoir or a drip tray; these are great for low maintenance but require careful monitoring to avoid stagnant water. For outdoor planters, ensure water can escape freely; indoor planters may need a saucer or a tray to catch drips. Self watering wall planters use a wicking system to draw water from a reservoir, which can reduce watering frequency but may lead to algae if not cleaned.
Wall planters can be heavy when filled with soil and water, so the mounting system must be robust. Check the weight capacity and whether the planter includes hardware (screws, anchors, brackets). For drywall, use toggle bolts or heavy duty anchors rated for the total weight. Some planters require drilling, while others use adhesive strips for lighter loads (under 5 pounds). For renters, consider removable adhesive hooks or tension rod systems. Always mount into studs for heavy planters. If you are unsure about installation, research customer reviews for feedback on ease of mounting. A good mounting system will also allow the planter to be level and flush against the wall.
Not all plants are suited for wall planters. Low light? Choose pothos, philodendron, or snake plants. Bright light? Try succulents, air plants, or herbs like basil and mint. Trailing plants like string of pearls or ivy look stunning cascading from wall planters. Upright growers like peace lilies or ferns work well in deeper pockets. Avoid large, fast growing plants that require frequent repotting. Also consider the watering needs: succulents need dry soil between waterings, while ferns prefer consistent moisture. Group plants with similar needs in the same planter. Many wall planters come with multiple pockets, so you can create a living wall with a mix of textures and colors. For more recommendations, check our Top 10 Wall Planters for 2026: Best Picks for Greenery guide.
Q: Can I use a wall planter without drainage holes? A: Yes, but you must use a cachepot method: place the plant in a plastic pot with holes and set it inside the decorative planter. Or drill your own holes if the material allows. Without drainage, overwatering is very risky.
Q: How do I prevent water damage to my wall? A: Use a planter with a built in drip tray or attach a separate saucer. For outdoor planters, ensure the wall is waterproofed or use a back plate that keeps the planter off the wall. Indoors, check for leaks regularly.
Q: What is the best plant for a beginner wall planter? A: Pothos or spider plants are nearly foolproof. They tolerate low light, infrequent watering, and trailing growth looks great in wall planters. Succulents are also easy if you provide bright light and well draining soil.
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