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When you're shopping for the best plant pot for the leafy Monstera in your living room, you don't have to consider much more than its appearance (and whether your plant will fit inside). Choosing outdoor plant pots, however, requires a little more thought.

Budget, location and the upkeep you're happy to do must all be considered before you can make your final selection. You have to choose something that's sturdy enough for the job, too: a garden pot for flowers might not be strong enough to hold a small shrub, for example. To help you pick the right outdoor plant pot for your needs, we've broken down some of the pros and cons of the most typical materials on offer.

Wood has a rustic, natural finish and, if you look for FSC-certified options, make a good sustainable option. If you go for those made with untreated timber, they can be stained or painted a colour of your own choice. It does require annual treatments to keep it looking its best and, if not cared for, can become susceptible to damp or mould damage.

Plastic is hardwearing, doesn't need any maintenance, is lightweight and usually quite inexpensive — so it's great for those on a budget. It will fade over time, though, and doesn't always look as smart as metal or wooden options.

Metal typically fares well outside. It won't fade or go mouldy, but lesser-quality options may begin to rust after some time. It's very versatile, though, and there are many different finishes depending on whether you're looking to achieve a more modern or traditional effect.

Terracotta has that lovely warm tone that works very well indoors and outdoors — but larger pots can be pricey and this material will smash if you happen to drop it.

Concrete is long-lasting, a strong insulator and able to withstand elements such as wind or rain. It's incredibly heavy but offers superb durability so will last for decades, and will continue to look better with age.

Whatever you're looking for, we've rounded up a selection of our favourite outdoor plant pots in a range of colours, materials and price points, so you can show off all your plants in your garden or on your patio or balcony perfectly.

Inject some personality into your garden with colourful plant pots. This pretty pair will brighten up your patio.

Material: Fibreglass Size: 59 x 53cm

Here's a very Instagrammable way to show off your growing succulent collection.

Material: Terracotta/iron Size: 65 x 40cm

Make your home's outdoor area a little more opulent – these pretty gold plant pots will add some glamour and gleam in the sunny weather.

Traditional terracotta is just so warm and weathers beautifully. It's pricey, but will last years with care – and there's a 20-30 per cent discount available if you buy several. This XXL size will show off your small palms and fruit trees proudly.

Material: Terracotta Size: Three sizes available

This simple wall hung planter will turn a drab fence or unloved bit of wall into a feature in its own right. Stock up on several to up the effect.

Material: Aged zinc Size: H50 x W89 x D14cm

From the House Beautiful garden range at Homebase, the modern embossed pattern on this outdoor plant pot makes it perfect for patios, balconies and contemporary gardens.

Material: Glazed terracotta Size: 32cm x 38cm x 38cm

This little guy will add some character to your patio.

Material: Fibreglass/stone mix Size: L27 x W21 x H34.5 cm

Bowl shaped and lightweight, this white garden pot will create a lovely focal point amongst the luscious greenery in your garden.

Material: Ceramic/durable fibreglass Size: 24cm x 33.5cm x 33.5cm

If you're looking to up your eco-credentials, Elho should be on your radar. Its pots are made from fully-recycled plastic that's been created using wind-powered energy. They're UV and frost-proof, too.

Material: Recycled plastic Size: D47cm

Sleek, modern and really cool, this bench has a built-in planter for some added flair. Just finish with some comfy outdoor cushions to complete the scheme.

Material: Concrete Size: H45 x W150 x D40cm

Think vertically with a hanging basket. This one is perfect for smaller plants – simply push it through the open sides.

Material: Mild steel Size: 25cm x 58cm (widest opening 12cm)

This classic earthenware pot is designed to withstand all weather conditions, so it can stay outside all winter without risk of cracking. At the moment, Homebase is offering a four-for-three discount on all outdoor pots, as well.

Material: Earthenware Size: D53cm

You wouldn't think that these striking outdoor plant pots are made from recycled oil drums – so they're both eco friendly and stylish.

Material: Iron Size: 31 x 38cm, 39 x 48cm

These lovely cylinder light terracotta plant pots have a timeless appeal. There are four sizes available, so take your pick.

Material: Terracotta Size: Four sizes available

Keep your little trees and shrubs in these wheeled plant pots. They'd look good either side of your home's front doorway, too.

Material: Plastic/recycled materials Size: 58 x 49cm

These would work equally well indoors as out – the bold teal legs add some fun to an otherwise stark design.

Keep baby plants safe with this set of 10 classic terracotta pots. We think they'd look great displayed on an outdoor plant rack.

Material: Terracotta Size: 13cm x 11cm

Or, go for this terracotta set with saucers. It's handy if you want to be able to bring your plants indoors without re-potting them.

Material: Terracotta Size: 13cm x 11cm

Unlike most rattan pieces, this planter is hardy enough to withstand outside, so you can bring some of its relaxed charm to your garden space — or use it indoors too.

Material: Rattan Size: 33cm x 40cm

With a smooth oval shape, natural finish and small handle design, what's not to love? Pop this one on your patio.

Material: Concrete Size: 23cm x 21cm

Metallic finishes will bring some warmth and glamour to your garden. If you've gone for a boho or Moroccan-style scheme, these would fit in especially well. Choose from a copper or antique brass finish.

Material: Metal Size: D27.5cm

And here's a similar version but with round frames.

Material: Zinc Size: Small - H47 x D22cm, large - H63 x D27cm

Keep your bigger, leafiest outdoor plants in here. We love the textured braided effect.

Material: Sandstone Size: 30cm x 30cm

With a deep reservoir tray, these inexpensive plant pots ensure you won't have to worry about needy plants wilting without frequent watering.

Material: Plastic Size: 24.5cm x 23cm

Use this versatile trough for herbs, as a window box, or even as an ice box for beers and wine bottles in the summer. Available in two sizes.

Material: Steel Size: 10cm x 40.5cm and 15cm x 40.5cm

If your tastes run maximalist indoors, there's no reason to change this in your garden. This majestic lion is at risk of outshining his leafy contents. Understated he is not!

Material: Polyresin Size: H40 x W43 x D36cm

How cute are these? It's definitely a good gift for a dog owner.

Material: Cement Size: 19 x 18.5cm

This is a really pretty shade. Once you've got your bigger planters sorted, layer up with some smaller ones like this to make a pretty eclectic display on the edge of your patio or garden steps.

Material: Ceramic effect Size: D50cm

Perfect for smaller trees, this pair of planters would look great either side of your home's entryway.

Material: Plastic Size: 56cm x 38cm

If you're looking to create a more European-style vibe in your garden, this roomy, terracotta-style plant pot is the perfect accompaniment for fruit trees, as well as your larger leafy shrubs.

Material: Resin Size: 5L capacity

Line the edges of your patio with a couple of these lead-effect troughs.

Material: Cement Size: H29 x D29 x W75cm

A perfect planter for your container garden, this woven basket effect planter is lightweight yet durable, and with the right plants, is perfect for zoning spaces in your garden.

Material: Fibreclay cement Size: 44 x44 x 44cm

Another fun option with good sustainability credentials – this barrel was once used to brew whiskey, with the char marks from the processing still visible inside. It'll add some rustic flair to any space and, with a 60cm diameter for just £40, it's an inexpensive way to add some big impact.

Material: Oak Size: H45 x D63cm

This is a great price for a roomy set of three planters — and they can be painted or stained however you like.

Material: Wood Size: 60cm x 60cm

Add some trailing plants to a few of these inexpensive little wall planters to add some interest to your garden wall or fence.

Material: Pewter-effect steel Size: 13cm x 13cm

Looking for a gift for a gardener? This sweet sage green planter can be personalised with a message of your choice.

Material: Iron Size: 31cm x 31cm

This set looks like its made from cast iron but, fortunately, is much easier to move around.

Material: Plastic Size: 30cm and 38cm in diameter