Welcome to the definitive guide on one of the most functional elements of modern landscaping. Whether you are looking to create a living privacy screen or a miniature kitchen garden, planters and troughs offer a structured, stylish way to organise your outdoor space.
Unlike standard round pots, a garden trough provides a linear footprint that maximises planting area while fitting perfectly against walls, railings, or along the edges of a patio.
What are trough planters used for?
Trough planters are the workhorses of the gardening world, primarily used to define boundaries and create structure. Their elongated shape makes them ideal for lining a driveway, bordering a deck, or acting as a natural partition between different "rooms" in your garden. Because they hold a larger volume of soil than individual pots, they offer a more stable environment for root systems to thrive.
Beyond aesthetics, large garden troughs are frequently used to solve privacy issues. By planting tall grasses or dense shrubs in these containers, you can create a mobile hedge that blocks out nosy neighbors or unsightly views without the permanence of a brick wall. They are also a favorite for urban gardeners who want to maximise every square inch of a balcony or narrow terrace.
Which plants grow best in large troughs?
When working with large outdoor trough planters, your options are surprisingly vast. For a low-maintenance, year-round look, evergreen shrubs like Buxus (Box) or various types of Euonymus perform exceptionally well. Their structured growth complements the clean lines of the trough, providing a sophisticated "architectural" feel to your entryway or patio.
If you prefer a more dynamic display, trough planters are perfect for creating "thriller, filler, and spiller" arrangements. You can place upright ornamental grasses in the center, surround them with colourful perennials like Heucheras, and allow trailing Ivy or Lobelia to cascade over the front edge. For more inspiration on choosing the right vessel for your plants, see our Ultimate Guide to Gardening Pots, Planters & Containers.
How deep should a garden trough be?
The ideal depth for a garden trough depends entirely on what you intend to grow. For shallow-rooted plants like succulents, bedding flowers, or salad greens, a depth of 15-20cm is usually sufficient. However, if you are looking at extra large garden troughs for more permanent displays, you should aim for a depth of at least 40-50cm to allow for proper root expansion and moisture retention.
A deeper trough acts as a buffer against temperature swings; more soil means the roots stay cooler in the summer and are better insulated against the frost in winter. If you are planting shrubs or small trees, ensuring you have that extra depth is the difference between a plant that merely survives and one that truly flourishes.
What’s the best material for outdoor troughs?
Choosing the right material for your planters and troughs is a balance between style and durability. Fiberstone and GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) are incredibly popular for large garden troughs because they offer the high-end look of stone or lead but are lightweight enough to move when empty. These materials are also frost-resistant, which is vital for the unpredictable UK climate.
For a more traditional or rustic aesthetic, wood and galvanised metal are classic choices. While wooden trough planters provide a natural look that blends into the garden, they require regular treatment to prevent rot. You can compare the longevity of these different options in our Comprehensive Guide to Planter Materials.
How do I stop large troughs from cracking?
The most common cause of cracking in large outdoor trough planters is the "freeze-thaw" cycle. When water in the soil freezes, it expands; if the container material isn't flexible or strong enough to withstand that pressure, it will hair-line or split. To prevent this, always ensure your trough is raised slightly off the ground using "pot feet" to allow water to escape freely.
Another tip for extra large garden troughs is to line the internal walls with a thin layer of polystyrene or bubble wrap before adding soil. This acts as a shock absorber for the expanding frozen earth and provides an extra layer of insulation for the roots. Choosing high-quality, weather-rated materials from the start is the best insurance against the elements.
Can I use troughs for growing vegetables?
Absolutely—a vegetable trough is one of the most efficient ways to grow your own food in a limited space. The linear shape is perfect for sowing neat rows of carrots, beetroots, or spring onions. Because a garden trough is elevated, it is also much easier to protect your crops from ground-dwelling pests like slugs and snails.
For the best results, use a vegetable trough for "cut and come again" crops like spinach and rocket. The depth of a standard trough allows for deep root development, which results in more resilient plants. If you’re looking to start a kitchen garden, check out our Guide to Growing Vegetables in Containers.
What size trough is best for herbs?
Herbs are incredibly versatile, but they don't like to be overcrowded. A medium-sized garden trough (around 60cm to 80cm in length) is perfect for a kitchen herb garden. This allows you to group plants with similar needs together—for example, a "Mediterranean" trough with rosemary, thyme, and oregano, which all prefer drier soil and plenty of sun.
If you are growing mint, a trough planter is actually a lifesaver. Mint is notoriously invasive and will take over a flower bed in a single season. By keeping it contained within planters and troughs, you can enjoy fresh leaves for your mojitos or Sunday roast without worrying about it suffocating the rest of your garden.
How do I add drainage to a trough planter?
Proper drainage is the "secret sauce" of container gardening. Most large garden troughs come with pre-drilled holes, but if they don't, you must add them using a masonry or wood bit. Without these holes, water will pool at the bottom, rotting the roots and eventually killing the plant—a condition often called "wet feet."
To further improve drainage, place a layer of "crocks" (broken pottery) or large stones over the holes before adding your compost. This prevents the soil from washing out and stopping up the drainage points. For more technical tips, read our article on How to Maintain and Drain Your Garden Planters.
Are extra large troughs good for trees?
Yes, extra large garden troughs are excellent for small or ornamental trees, provided the container is wide and deep enough to offer stability. Species like Japanese Maples (Acer), Olive trees, or Bay Laurels look stunning when centered in a substantial trough. The weight of the soil in a large outdoor trough planter also prevents the tree from catching the wind and blowing over.
When planting trees, remember that they will stay in that container for many years. It is worth investing in a high-quality garden trough and using a loam-based compost (like John Innes No. 3), which provides the structural integrity and long-term nutrients that trees require compared to standard multi-purpose peat.
Where can I buy large garden troughs online?
Finding the perfect large garden troughs online requires looking for a supplier that understands both durability and design. At TTamer Collection, we specialise in high-quality planters and troughs designed to withstand the British weather while elevating your outdoor aesthetic. Our curated selection focuses on premium materials that offer longevity and style.
When shopping for large outdoor trough planters, always check the shipping terms, as these substantial items require careful handling. Whether you need a single vegetable trough or a set of extra large garden troughs to redesign your commercial space, our online store provides detailed specifications to ensure you get the perfect fit for your project.
