The Best Spring Care Tips for Concrete Planters
- Astrid van Essen
- Mar 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 27
Spring is finally here after a long, grey, and wet winter! The days are getting longer, gardens are coming back to life, and it’s time to refresh those outdoor spaces. But before you start planting, your concrete planters might need some attention.
Winter weather can leave concrete pots looking a little worse for wear—moss, algae, dirt, and even small cracks can appear after months of exposure to cold and moisture. To ensure they’re in top shape for spring planting, here are our best Spring care tips for cleaning, repairing, and protecting concrete planters for a fresh new season.
More about concrete planter maintenance: Caring for Your Concrete Planters
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How to Clean Concrete Planters After Winter (Step-by-Step)
Winter can leave concrete planters covered in dirt, stains, or mildew. Here’s the best way to clean concrete pots for a fresh start:
Rinse with warm water – Remove loose debris with a quick rinse.
Scrub with a natural solution – Mix warm water with a splash of white vinegar or a mild dish soap. Use a stiff brush to scrub away grime, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the concrete or harm plants.
Tackle stubborn stains – Make a paste using baking soda and water, apply it to stains, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Let them dry completely – Before planting, ensure your pots are fully dry to prevent moisture buildup.
Read more about stain removal in my other blog post: How to Remove 10 Common Stains on Concrete Using Eco-Friendly Methods
How to Fix Cracks in Concrete Planters
Cold temperatures can cause concrete planters to crack, especially if water has seeped in and frozen. Here’s how to repair them:
Small cracks? Use a waterproof sealant or concrete patching compound.
Larger cracks? Apply a concrete filler with a putty knife and smooth it out. Let it dry thoroughly before use.
Prevent future damage by raising your pots with concrete pot feet to improve drainage and airflow.
Should You Seal or Wax Your Concrete Planters?
Sealing your concrete pots isn’t essential, but it helps protect against water damage, stains, and frost cracks. Here’s what you need to know:
Use a breathable concrete sealer – This prevents excess moisture absorption while allowing air to pass through.
Wax for a smooth finish – Applying (natural) concrete wax makes future cleaning a little easier and gives pots a subtle, polished look.
I use this excellent quality beeswax for all my planters, but you can easily find other brands on Amazon.
If your pots are left outdoors year-round, sealing once a year is a great way to extend their lifespan.
Best Spring Plants for Concrete Planters
Now that your planters are fresh and ready, it’s time to bring them to life with vibrant spring flowers and greenery. Great choices include:
Spring bulbs – Daffodils, tulips, crocuses (perfect for early blooms)
Hardy perennials – Lavender, sedum, heuchera (low maintenance and long-lasting)
Herbs for fresh cooking – Rosemary, thyme, oregano (perfect for patio planters)
For a stylish, elevated look, place heavier pots on a concrete pot stand to add height, improve drainage and create a focal point in your garden.
Final Tips for Spring-Ready Planters
Use pot feet to raise planters and prevent moisture buildup.
Rotate planters to give all sides even sun exposure.
Water carefully – Spring can bring unpredictable rain, so check soil moisture before watering.
Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy your refreshed garden! Whether you’re planting bright blooms, fragrant herbs, or lush greenery, your concrete planters are now ready for the season ahead.
FAQs: The Best Spring Care Tips for Concrete Planters
1. How often should I clean my concrete planters? It’s a good idea to clean your concrete pots at least twice a year—once after winter to remove dirt and algae and again in late autumn before storing them away or protecting them for colder months.
2. Can I use bleach to clean my concrete pots? It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, as they can damage the concrete and leave behind residues that may harm plants. A mild vinegar solution or gentle soap with water works best.
3. How do I prevent my concrete pots from cracking in winter? To prevent cracks, ensure proper drainage by using pot feet to elevate them off the ground. Also, sealing your pots with a breathable concrete sealant helps reduce moisture absorption, which can lead to freezing and cracking.
4. Should I seal my concrete pots every year? Sealing your pots annually provides the best protection if they are exposed to rain and frost. However, sealing every two to three years is sufficient if they’re under cover or in a milder climate.
5. Can I use a concrete pot stand for indoor plants? Absolutely! A concrete pot stand elevates your plants for better airflow, protects indoor surfaces from moisture, and adds a stylish touch to your decor.
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