cheap planters for balcony

Affordable Balcony Planters: Cheap & Stylish

By Robert Thompson
AD

Transforming your balcony into a lush, green oasis doesn't have to break the bank. With the right cheap planters, you can create a beautiful, personalized space that reflects your style and nurtures your plants. Let's explore some affordable options and tips to help you achieve your balcony gardening dreams.

First, consider the materials. Cheap planters can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own pros and cons. Let's dive into the most popular options.

Plastic Planters

Plastic planters are lightweight, durable, and often the most affordable option. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, making them a versatile choice for any balcony decor. However, they can be prone to cracking in extreme temperatures and may not have the same aesthetic appeal as other materials.

AD
10 Renter-Friendly Urban Gardening Ideas for Small Balconies
10 Renter-Friendly Urban Gardening Ideas for Small Balconies
a man holding a bucket full of plants in front of a wooden fence with the words where to find free containers for your garden
a man holding a bucket full of plants in front of a wooden fence with the words where to find free containers for your garden
Fresh Herbs on Your Balcony With These 8 Planter Ideas
Fresh Herbs on Your Balcony With These 8 Planter Ideas

Pro tip: Opt for UV-resistant plastic planters to ensure longevity and vibrant colors that won't fade in the sun.

Self-Watering Plastic Planters

Self-watering plastic planters are a game-changer for balcony gardeners with busy schedules. They have a built-in reservoir that gradually releases water to the plant's roots, keeping your plants hydrated even when you're away.

$50 Tiny Balcony Makeover: Spring 2026 Apartment Guide
$50 Tiny Balcony Makeover: Spring 2026 Apartment Guide
RailScapes Floating Garden Railing 3-Pack Planter for balcony, deck, indoors & stairs, Easy install and fits most narrow iron & aluminum 1/2"-3/4”
RailScapes Floating Garden Railing 3-Pack Planter for balcony, deck, indoors & stairs, Easy install and fits most narrow iron & aluminum 1/2"-3/4”
DIY Balcony Garden Ideas on a Budget
DIY Balcony Garden Ideas on a Budget

Example: The Bloem Self-Watering Planter is a popular, budget-friendly option that comes in various sizes and colors.

Stackable Plastic Planters

Stackable plastic planters are perfect for small balconies or those looking to maximize space. They allow you to grow multiple plants vertically, creating a lush, layered look without taking up too much floor space.

AD

Example: The mDesign Stackable Plastic Planters are affordable, durable, and come in a set of three to help you create a stunning vertical garden.

Pest-Free Balcony Pot: Grow Herbs, Repel Pests Naturally!
Pest-Free Balcony Pot: Grow Herbs, Repel Pests Naturally!
My DIY'd Boho Patio Tour (Renter-Friendly) — Actually Alli | DIY, Home Decor & Lifestyle
My DIY'd Boho Patio Tour (Renter-Friendly) — Actually Alli | DIY, Home Decor & Lifestyle
Best Planters for Small Balconies
Best Planters for Small Balconies
DIY Cinder Block Flower Planter 🌸 | Small Balcony Garden Makeover Idea
DIY Cinder Block Flower Planter 🌸 | Small Balcony Garden Makeover Idea
DIY Balcony Gardens With 23 Container Ideas
DIY Balcony Gardens With 23 Container Ideas
7 Dollar Tree Stackable Planter Ideas That Look Way More Expensive Than They Are
7 Dollar Tree Stackable Planter Ideas That Look Way More Expensive Than They Are

Terracotta Planters

Terracotta planters offer a classic, rustic charm that can elevate your balcony's aesthetic. They are porous, allowing for better air circulation and moisture evaporation, which is great for plants that prefer well-draining soil. However, they can be heavier and more fragile than plastic planters, and may require more frequent watering due to their porous nature.

Pro tip: To prevent cracking, soak new terracotta planters in water for a few hours before planting to allow them to expand gradually.

AD

Hanging Terracotta Planters

Hanging terracotta planters are an excellent way to add greenery to your balcony without taking up valuable floor space. They can be hung from the ceiling, railings, or even from a stand, allowing you to create a hanging garden effect.

No-Drill Planters for Rental Balconies: 7 Renter-Friendly Ideas (2026)
No-Drill Planters for Rental Balconies: 7 Renter-Friendly Ideas (2026)
1.1M views · 3.9K reactions | I can’t believe I found this at Dollar Tree! | I can’t believe I found this at Dollar Tree! | By Liz | Tree has so many planters out right now. When I saw this planter, I thought it looked very similar to a planter we would DIY on our channel. So, I placed a bunch of rocks in the bottom and then on the top, I just used the rocks that I wanted to show which were these white Dollar Tree rocks and from here, you can add any plant you have. So, I'm going to be using $3 Tree succulents. I'm also going to add a Dollar Tree succulent that has a little bit of height to the center and I love this longer greenery that they have at Dollar Tree. Here's how this planter turned out.
1.1M views · 3.9K reactions | I can’t believe I found this at Dollar Tree! | I can’t believe I found this at Dollar Tree! | By Liz | Tree has so many planters out right now. When I saw this planter, I thought it looked very similar to a planter we would DIY on our channel. So, I placed a bunch of rocks in the bottom and then on the top, I just used the rocks that I wanted to show which were these white Dollar Tree rocks and from here, you can add any plant you have. So, I'm going to be using $3 Tree succulents. I'm also going to add a Dollar Tree succulent that has a little bit of height to the center and I love this longer greenery that they have at Dollar Tree. Here's how this planter turned out.
Metal Hanging Flower Pots for Railing Fence Outdoor Planter 9.6 inch4.9" Hanging Bucket Pots Countryside Window Flower Plant Holder with Detachable Hooks for Garden Yard Home Decor,1Pcs Black, Size:9.6" x 4.9"
Metal Hanging Flower Pots for Railing Fence Outdoor Planter 9.6 inch4.9" Hanging Bucket Pots Countryside Window Flower Plant Holder with Detachable Hooks for Garden Yard Home Decor,1Pcs Black, Size:9.6" x 4.9"
Budget Balcony Gardens That Actually Work
Budget Balcony Gardens That Actually Work
a planter with plants in it and the text dollar tree planter hack new outdoor items
a planter with plants in it and the text dollar tree planter hack new outdoor items
some flowers are growing in a wooden planter
some flowers are growing in a wooden planter
Balcony Railing Planter Ideas That Look Expensive
Balcony Railing Planter Ideas That Look Expensive
Artificial lvy leaf fake ivy garland hanging ivy leaves artificial greenery
Artificial lvy leaf fake ivy garland hanging ivy leaves artificial greenery
9 Ways to Fit More Plants on Tiny Balconies
9 Ways to Fit More Plants on Tiny Balconies
an outdoor balcony with potted plants on it
an outdoor balcony with potted plants on it
three green planters with flowers in them on a balcony
three green planters with flowers in them on a balcony
7 Ways to Keep Balcony Pollinator Plants Alive in Summer
7 Ways to Keep Balcony Pollinator Plants Alive in Summer

Example: The Costa Farms Hanging Terracotta Planter is a stylish, affordable option that comes with a macrame hanger for a boho-chic touch.

Terracotta Planter Sets

Terracotta planter sets are a great way to create a cohesive look on your balcony. They often come in sets of three or more, allowing you to mix and match sizes and shapes to create a visually appealing display.

AD

Example: The Amazon Basics Terracotta Planter Set offers excellent value for money, with a set of three planters in varying sizes.

Cement and Concrete Planters

Cement and concrete planters provide a modern, industrial aesthetic that can add a touch of sophistication to your balcony. They are durable, weather-resistant, and can be painted or sealed to customize their look. However, they can be heavy and more expensive than plastic or terracotta options.

Pro tip: To lighten the load, consider using lightweight concrete or fiber cement planters, which offer the same aesthetic but with less weight.

DIY Concrete Planters

For a truly unique and affordable option, consider making your own concrete planters. You can find numerous tutorials online that guide you through the process, allowing you to create custom-shaped planters that fit your balcony's size and style.

Example: Check out this tutorial from HGTV for a step-by-step guide on creating your own concrete planters using molds and basic materials.

Concrete Planter Sets

Concrete planter sets are an easy way to achieve a cohesive, modern look on your balcony. They often come in sets of two or more, allowing you to create a balanced display with minimal effort.

Example: The Gardeners Supply Company Concrete Planter Set offers a stylish, affordable option with a set of two rectangular planters.

With these affordable planter options and tips, you're well on your way to creating a beautiful, personalized balcony garden. So go ahead, let your green thumb run wild, and enjoy the fruits of your labor in your very own outdoor oasis. Happy planting!

AD