Their cost makes them a competitive alternative to purpose-built planters and when necessary their range of colours and textures can be extended by using renderings. Hand grips and tool clamps can be fitted by the user. The containers shown all have the equivalent of a toe-hole, either because they are on a plinth or as a result of outward sloping sides. Some have separate pedestal and container extension units which allow a degree of height adjustment while 'a' is suitable for wheelchair users if mounted on a pre-cast concrete drain section or in situ pedestal. The wall of an existing building can add stability to a commercially produced concrete container.
Timber is an attractive, relatively low cost material which blends well with the landscape.
It tends to carry the limitations of a relatively short live and possible problems of splintering but the availablility of new wood treatments has helped overcome these. The advantages include a relatively low cost and a softer, natural appearance. Proprietary wooden planters are available in a wide range of sizes, styles and finishes. Alternatively, wooden containers or planters can be constructed. At first sight, these may seem a highly unlikely form of raised planter.