When it comes to choosing containers for your cacti and succulents, wood and stone are very suitable materials.


Wooden Containers

Wooden and stone planters are excellent for cacti and succulents. Though the large whiskey barrel planters might be needed for very large plants, the smaller sizes are sufficient for most species. Many cacti and succulents have shallow root systems. As a result, they don’t need a large amount of potting soil. So, small wooden baskets, and flower boxes are very suitable.

Wooden containers are available in various colors, sizes, and shapes from round and square to rectangular. Some wooden flower boxes are attractively decorated with lattice work.

The planters with long legs are good because this increases aeration for the roots. These are also available as half buckets, which can be hung on a wall or window just as you would a window box.

For large round barrels and tubs, I would go with the shorter squat ones since cacti and succulents generally don’t need a large volume of potting soil.

A number of wooden deck rail planters are also available. They are sold in various lengths. You can buy either finished or unfinished ones. These are similar to window boxes, and are designed to attach to the deck railings.

Even hollow logs can make good planters. I’ve seen some beautiful ones planted with succulents. Just take a cross section of a log. Hollow out enough of the center to make space for the potting soil.

Drill enough drainage holes so that water can run out the bottom. Next, fill the log with a quick draining potting soil, and plant. As the log eventually ages, the bark will peel. As a result, this gives the planter a nice aged look.


Rock and Stone

Rocks and stones make perfect planters for cacti and succulents. But, suitable ones are rarely found in nature. However, there are several brands of rock-based planters available.

Featherock is a well known brand. These are made from real rocks. The artisan saws the bottom of the stone to create a flat surface. Next, a cavity is drilled out to hold the potting soil. Finally, drainage holes are drilled so water will drain out.

The Featherock planters are especially suitable for small cacti and succulents, particularly species with small root systems. The Featherocks come in different shapes and sizes. The stone comes from the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California.