In a dynamic world as interior design, the one element that remains constant is plants.  The décor could vary from contemporary to old-world charm, but plants just fit in perfectly to add character and life to the aesthetic environs.  And when plants make a statement in your home, the planter also makes a statement.  The planter is essentially a dish for holding plants and it comes in various shapes and sizes and is made of different materials.  Any interior could get an instant facelift with the arrival of a plant, but it is vital that it is placed in the right kind of planter.

Choosing planters

Many factors must be taken into consideration when buying planters.  Whether it’s to be used indoors or out, and it must be in co-ordination with the general theme and style of its surroundings.   Brass, copper and bronze are some of the most preferred and widely used planters in India.  These metals fit into most surroundings with ease.  Brass is of a shade that will blend into most colour palettes, while bronze and copper require a little bit of colour co-ordination.  A dark background could be offset with a lighter coloured planter and vice-versa.  Just as art on the wall, planters break the monotony at the eye level and thus can be used to fill an empty space or a corner.  The size of the planter depends wholly on the space assigned to it. 

Types of planters

Brass and copper planters have been available for a long time and have evolved in style along with the times.  You can find ornate brass planters with much detail and also the more modern sleek simple styles.  Choosing the right kind for your home is the key.  In a traditional setting, an ornate yet elegant brass planter would add charm.  If the space is large, one could try and place two or three planters together in different sizes, but at the same time the effect should not be cluttered.  In restricted spaces, smaller planters with less detailing should be placed so as to prevent the room from looking crowded.  Along with the amount of space available, the theme of the room and the style of the planter should always match. 

The size of the planter also depends on the size of the plant that it is going to hold.  The planter must be two inches higher and one inch wider than the pot that will be placed inside.  The size of the plant should be proportionate with the size of the planter.  A small shrub in a big planter will look ill fitting and vice-versa.  In fact, the right kind of plant in the right planter could become the centre of focus in a room and complete a look.  Rightly placed, planters can partition a room into separate areas without making either space look too small.  Planters need not necessarily be used only for plants, one can even use them to hold flower arrangements.  Fill them with water and float candles during Diwali or a party.  Place a sheet of glass on top and you have a table ready.  Brass and copper planters used tastefully can instantly complete a design, be it indoors or outdoors.

Maintaining planters