Buyers Guide To Rooftop Planters For Balconies, Roof Gardens & Landscaped Terraces

Rooftop planters are a unique and efficient way to boost the value of your property. Whether it’s large rooftop gardens and fully planted green roofs or just a few simple herb plants, rooftop planters can give your space a lift. And with Jay Scotts’ vast array of planters and advice, there’s no better way to upscale your rooftop area.

In this article, we’ll look at the following: what rooftop planters are; who uses them; why you should use them; the best ones to use; and finally, our top tips to keep your rooftop planters looking great. Let’s get started!

What Are Rooftop Planters?

Rooftop planters are simply containers or pots that are placed on a rooftop area or space.

Cube planter on a rooftop with a tree
©Jay Scotts // Reveal Design

Uses

They are typically used to create a rooftop garden or to grow plants and vegetables, but they can also be used for other purposes such as storage or decoration. Roof planters can help to beautify almost any unused or underutilized space, and can also provide insulation and soundproofing.

Shapes, sizes, and materials

Rooftop planters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be made from materials like plastic, metal, or wood, but overall fiberglass is your best choice for style and substance. They also typically have drainage holes to prevent water from pooling on the roof, making them a functional and stylish addition to any rooftop area.

Let’s take a look at who can benefit from using rooftop planters next!

Who Uses Rooftop Planters?

©Page Light Studios / Shutterstock

Rooftop planters are an ideal solution for city dwellers living on straight urban streets, or for anyone who has limited yard space. Rooftop planters are popular in a range of different commercial and residential settings such as:

1. Offices

They create a more pleasant work environment. Studies have shown that plants can improve air quality and reduce noise levels, and boost morale and productivity among employees, all hugely important factors in the workplace.

2. Hotels

For more chic hotels, a variety of planters can be one of a few rooftop accessories used to add more flair and appeal to an outdoor space. Overall, rooftop planters create a more inviting atmosphere for guests, and they are often placed around a pool or lounge area. And with Jay Scotts’=, we are on hand with multiple design ideas to give your hotel’s rooftop space a boost!

©CHUTTERSNAP / Unsplash

3. Apartment blocks

Rooftop planters are an ideal solution for people living in apartments who usually have limited yard space but want to try their hand at rooftop gardening. Usually, rooftop gardeners opt to grow anything from flowers to vegetables, but shrubs and trees can also be planted for privacy, which has the added bonus of increasing curb appeal from neighboring buildings.

4. Bars, restaurants, and cafes

Similar to hotels, rooftop planters can create a better environment for guests. Rooftop planters are commonly used to create floral roof gardens, giving guests a natural feel and privacy. And with many restaurants now investing in outdoor dining spaces in the wake of the pandemic, Jay Scotts can help restaurants boost profits with innovative outdoor planter ideas.

See our planters make a difference

Learn how Jay Scotts planters are used to meet the goals of our customers from the Philadelphia International Airport to the Gates Hotel South Beach in Miami.

planters in a hotel
Styled and installed by: Geomantic Designs | Landscape Architecture

7 Reasons Why You Should Use Rooftop Planters

outdoor patio with planters
©Jay Scotts

Rooftop planters offer many benefits, so let’s take a look at them now!

1. Style!

Rooftop planters can improve the appearance of a property, adding color and life to otherwise lackluster spaces.

2. Your own private urban oasis

Planting on a rooftop provides a way to create a private oasis in the city. Planters with trees on a rooftop can also help to cool a building in the summer by shading the roof, especially with Jay Scotts’ large fiberglass outdoor planters.

3. Less noise, cleaner air

Both rooftop planters and plants can help to reduce noise pollution by absorbing sound, and they can improve air quality by filtering out pollutants and providing oxygen.

4. Grow your own

Rooftop planters can provide a way to grow your own plants and flowers, and using container-grown plants is a great way to cultivate your favorite blooms. This can be a great way to add personality to your space, and it can also save you money on purchasing plants from a nursery or garden center.

5. Lower bills

Rooftop plants can help to reduce energy costs by cooling the building’s roof, for example by installing fully planted green roofs. They can also reduce the amount of stormwater runoff, which helps protect the roof against flooding and weather damage.

Already sold on the idea of a rooftop fiberglass planter? Here are our top tips to ensure you choose the right planter to make your rooftop area sparkle!

5 Things To Consider When Buying A Rooftop Planter

Fiberglass planters on a patio
©Jay Scotts

There are a few things to consider before purchasing rooftop planters. Here are 5 things to keep in mind:

1. The size and shape of the area 

The first thing to consider before purchasing rooftop planters is the size and shape of the area where the planter will be placed. It is important to measure the area and choose a planter that is the appropriate size. Otherwise, the planter may be too small or too large for the space.

2. The material of the planter 

There are many different materials from which planters can be made, such as wood, plastic, metal, and ceramic.

Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, but overall, fiberglass is the best material for its ability to look stylish and stand the test of time.

With expert advice on the best planter materials and a range of fiberglass planters to suit your every need, Jay Scotts has you covered!

Check out how Jay Scotts is able to make rooftop fiberglass planters that last over 50 years!

3. Plant selection

It is important to select plants that are appropriate for the climate and the amount of sunlight that the planter will receive. Choosing plants that will not become too large for the planter is also something to keep in mind so you don’t have to spend more money than you may want.

4. The purpose of the rooftop planter 

Rooftop planters can be used for a variety of purposes, such as growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, or shrubs. It is important to choose a planter that is designed for the specific intended purpose. For example, if a large tree is going to be planted in the planter, then a round or square planter would be best. If a smaller plant is going to be placed in the planter, then a rectangular or oval planter is ideal.

5. A reputable supplier of rooftop planters 

There are many different suppliers of rooftop planters, but not all of them are created equal. It is important to choose a supplier that has a good reputation and that offers a quality product. Additionally, it is important to choose a supplier that offers competitive prices. Fortunately, choosing a fiberglass rooftop planter from Jay Scotts will tick all those boxes – and more!

Check out our guide to large outdoor planters so you can give your rooftop area a boost!

How Can I Get The Most Out Of My Rooftop Planter?

When it comes to getting the most out of a rooftop planter, there are a few things you can do to make sure your plants thrive.

large rooftop with planters
©davidbondst

1. Choose a location with plenty of sunlight

Rooftop planters can be placed in direct sunlight or in partial shade, but they will need at least six hours of sunlight each day to do well.

Check out our outdoor fiberglass planters, which offer unrivaled UV protection, durability, and longevity.

2. Make sure the planter has proper drainage

Plants can’t thrive in very wet soil, so it’s important to choose a planter that has drainage holes in the bottom and is elevated slightly off the ground. By building raised beds, you can ensure your plants have better drainage and a consistent water supply.

3. Use a water reservoir system or a simple drip irrigation system.

These systems are often better than using watering cans as they help keep the roots of your plants moist by slowly releasing water into the soil.

4. Fertilize your plants regularly

Rooftop planters can be a great way to add color and life to your home, but they do require some care and attention to thrive. By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy plants in your rooftop garden for years to come.

5. Lastly, clean and maintain your planter regularly

That means clearing debris and algae, checking drainage holes aren’t blocked, and making sure your planter is well-shielded from the elements, especially if you live in an area that has extreme weather.

With winter on the horizon, check out our guide to keeping your fiberglass planter in top condition!

The Best Rooftop Planter Styles And Plants

the best rooftop planter designs are ones that reflect the property owners’ personalities while providing a stylish and functional garden space. Here are some pointers to help you choose!

  • Traditional – If you’re looking for a more traditional design, go for a classic square or rectangular planter. We have a host of traditional designs to inspire your rooftop space!
  • Modern – For a more modern look, you could try the sleek and clean lines that fiberglass planters offer, or even an asymmetrical or geometric design. For offices or those looking for contemporary modern designs, Jay Scotts offer our range of commercial planters.
  • Smaller – spaces If you have a small space, consider a vertical, wall-mounted, or hanging planter to utilize unused vertical spaces.

Rooftop plants

Blue planters on a patio
©Jay Scotts

It is also important to consider the type of plants that you will be growing in your planter. Some plants require more sunlight than others, so it is important to choose ones that will be able to thrive in the conditions on your roof.

Some of the best plants for rooftop plants include:

  • Succulents
  • Cacti
  • Herbs
  • Small shrubs
  • Annual flowers

As you get started on your rooftop container garden, check out how to master your landscape aesthetic, and your space will soon be on the way to looking like Brooklyn Botanic Garden!

Upgrade Your Rooftop Area With A Jay Scotts Planter!

301 Ocean Avenue
©REWS Media LLC / 301 Ocean Avenue

Jay Scotts is a global leader in the planter industry. Our products have been used in many different residential and commercial projects, and are simply unrivaled. Made from commercial-grade fiberglass and high-strength resin, they are durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant. Moreover, each and every planter is covered with a UV protective coating before it leaves our headquarters in Miami, Florida.

Want to offer high-value plant installations? Learn more about our wholesale opportunities!

Get started on your project by having a look at our fiberglass planters collection. All of our planters come with an industry-leading warranty emphasizing the commitment and value of our fiberglass planters. Available in an array of 18 stunning colors, it is sure to fit into your design plans or for your clients.

Why not request a quote today to see what exciting opportunities we can deliver?

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