If you’re passionate about gardening, you probably understand the time and care it takes to sow and nurture your plants. A potting bench can make this process easier by providing you with a dedicated area and all the tools you need within reach.
When selecting a potting bench that fits your needs, the height of the bench is crucial. You want to ensure that you can work comfortably without straining your back or arms. Another significant factor is the type of material you prefer, whether wood, vinyl, or metal, depending on your personal preferences.
You may also want to consider the size of the bench, whether it comes with shelves or storage compartments, and how easy it is to assemble. If you need help choosing the best potting bench for your gardening needs, our shopping guide can provide all the essential information you require. Alternatively, you can select from our list of recommended models to streamline your selection process.
Best Choice Products Outdoor Mobile Garden Potting Bench
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- EXPANDABLE SLIDING TABLETOP: Extend your workspace when piecing together plants with a tabletop that splits apart for a lengthy surface to cut and pot vegetables, herbs, and more; it also comes in handy for hiding clutter when there's simply not enough time to clean up
- FOOD-GRADE DRY SINK: Includes a dry sink for convenient soil mixing and plant potting, made of quality material that helps ensure soil remains safe for planting after coming in contact with the sink
What To Consider When Choosing A Potting Bench?
When selecting a potting bench, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose one that meets your needs and requirements. Here are some essential considerations:
Material
Potting benches are available in a variety of materials, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Choose a material that is durable, weather-resistant, and suits your personal preferences. Here are some of the most common materials used for potting benches:
- Wood
Wood is a popular choice for potting benches due to its natural appearance and durability. Cedar, teak, and redwood are commonly used due to their resistance to moisture and rot. They can last for many years with proper maintenance. The natural appearance of wood adds a rustic charm to your garden, and some people enjoy the look of weathered wood, while others prefer to paint or stain them to match their outdoor decor.
One downside to wooden potting benches is that they require regular maintenance to prevent weathering and rot. While high-quality wooden benches are durable, there are many flimsy options on the market that may not hold up over time. This means that the most robust and long-lasting wooden potting benches can be expensive.
- Metal
Metal potting benches are usually made from aluminum or steel. They are an excellent choice for gardeners who prioritize durability and functionality. They are lightweight, sturdy, and resistant to fading and rotting, making them ideal for outdoor use. However, steel potting benches can rust over time, so they are often galvanized or powder-coated to prevent this issue.
One potential downside of metal potting benches is that they may not have the same aesthetic appeal as other materials, such as wood or vinyl. However, there are many modern designs available that can complement a wide range of outdoor styles.
Overall, metal potting benches are a practical and durable option for those who value functionality and want a bench that can withstand the elements without requiring a lot of maintenance.
- Vinyl
Vinyl potting benches are durable, lightweight, and resistant to moisture, making them perfect for outdoor use. They are also easy to clean, making them ideal for messy gardening tasks.
They are an excellent option for gardeners who want the look of painted wood without the potential for weather damage. These benches can be designed to mimic the appearance of wood and come in a variety of colors and styles to match any outdoor decor. Despite their plastic-like appearance, vinyl potting benches are often high-quality and durable.
One significant advantage of vinyl potting benches is that they can withstand a wide range of weather conditions without fading, cracking, rotting, or rusting. They require little to no maintenance and can last for many years with proper care.
However, it’s essential to note that vinyl potting benches are not the most sustainable option. While they can last for many years, they are not biodegradable and can contribute to landfill waste. Wooden potting benches, on the other hand, will eventually degrade and have less of an impact on the environment.
Overall, if you prioritize durability and low maintenance, a vinyl potting bench can be an excellent choice. However, if sustainability is a concern, you may want to consider a wooden option.
Potting Bench Size
You want to make sure that the bench is large enough to accommodate your gardening needs without taking up too much space in your outdoor area.
The size of the potting bench will depend on your individual requirements. If you have a large garden or need to do a lot of potting, you may want a larger bench that can accommodate multiple plants and gardening tools. However, if you have limited space, a smaller bench may be more appropriate.
In addition to the overall size of the bench, you’ll also want to consider any built-in shelves or storage spaces. These can be helpful for keeping gardening tools and supplies organized and within reach while you work.
It’s important to measure the space where you plan to place the potting bench to ensure that it fits comfortably.
Height
The height of your potting bench is an important consideration when choosing a model that will be comfortable for you to work at. Most potting benches have a height of around 36 inches, which is the same as a standard kitchen counter. However, if you are taller or shorter than average, this height may not be ideal for you.
If you are taller than average, you may want to look for a potting bench that is slightly taller than 36 inches or that is height adjustable. This will allow you to work at a comfortable height without having to bend over or strain your back. On the other hand, if you are shorter than average, you may want to look for a potting bench that is slightly shorter than 36 inches or that is also height adjustable.
It’s important to choose a potting bench that allows you to work at a comfortable height to prevent discomfort and injuries while working on your gardening projects. With the right height, you can work efficiently and comfortably, making your gardening tasks enjoyable and stress-free.
Easy To Assemble
Make sure to consider how easy it is to assemble. Most potting benches are delivered flat-packed, and some models are easier to assemble than others.
Potting benches with drawers and cupboards can be more challenging to assemble because you’ll need to construct the drawers and hang the cupboard doors. However, if you’re looking for a potting bench that’s easy to put together, there are some models available that can be assembled without the need for tools.
It’s also important to check what tools are required for assembly. Some potting benches come with Allen keys, which can make assembly easier, while others may require a drill or screwdriver. By choosing a potting bench that’s easy to assemble and requires minimal tools, you can save time and hassle, allowing you to focus on your gardening projects.
Attachments
Potting benches often come with a variety of attachments and accessories that can make your gardening tasks easier and more efficient. Some popular attachments include:
- Shelves
Some potting benches come with built-in shelves for additional storage. These shelves can be used to store pots, bags of soil, or other gardening supplies you need within reach.
The shelves underneath the work surface can be used to store compost bags, potting soil, and watering cans, while the higher shelves are perfect for holding smaller items like empty pots or gardening books. Having extra shelves can help keep your workspace tidy and organized, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
- Drawers
Having drawers in a potting bench offers additional storage space to keep your small gardening tools organized and prevent them from being misplaced. You can use the drawer to store items that you don’t want to leave out in the open, such as knitting needles, chopsticks for creating holes to plant seeds, gardening gloves, and twine. This is especially helpful if you have kids or pets around that could accidentally damage or misplace your tools. With a drawer, you’ll have a dedicated space to keep these items safe and easily accessible when you need them.
- Sink
A potting bench sink is a great addition for those who don’t want to keep running back and forth to the house to wash their hands or clean tools. It allows you to easily wash soil off your hands or tools and to keep the mess outside and not clog up your indoor plumbing. This can be especially useful if you’re working with messy or wet soil.
Some potting benches come with a built-in sink, while others may have the option to add one. The sink can be connected to a hose for easy water access, or it may come with a built-in faucet. Keep in mind that adding a sink will increase the weight and complexity of the assembly of your potting bench.
- Wheels
It’s worth noting that casters can be helpful if you need to move your potting bench around frequently, such as to follow the sun or to make room for other outdoor activities. However, if you plan to use your potting bench in a windy area or on uneven ground, a bench without casters may be more stable. Some potting benches have locking casters, which can be useful if you need to keep the bench in place while you work or if you need to clean up your work area but also want the option to move it easily when needed.
- Tool hooks
Many potting benches come with hooks for hanging your gardening tools. Consider how many hooks you need and where you want them to be located. These hooks can be located on the side or underneath the work surface, depending on the model. Depending on your preference, you may want to choose a model that has hooks in both locations.
These hooks can be very useful for hanging your trowel, pruning shears, gloves, and other gardening tools while you work.
Additionally, make sure the hooks are sturdy enough to hold your tools securely. Weak hooks can lead to your tools falling off and potentially causing damage or injury. Look for potting benches with durable hooks that are made from strong materials, such as metal or heavy-duty plastic.
By choosing a potting bench with the right number and type of hooks, you can keep your gardening tools organized and easily accessible, making your gardening tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
Weight
The weight of a potting bench depends on the materials used in its construction. Wooden potting benches tend to be the heaviest, while metal and vinyl options are usually lighter. The weight of a potting bench can be an important consideration if you plan on moving it frequently, or if you need to store it away during the off-season. A heavier potting bench will be more difficult to move, but it may also be sturdier and more stable. A lighter potting bench will be easier to move but may be more prone to tipping over if it’s not properly anchored or stabilized.
It’s important to find a potting bench that strikes a balance between weight and stability. If you live in an area with strong winds, you may want to opt for a heavier potting bench or secure it to the ground to prevent it from tipping over.
Placement
Having your potting bench near a water source can be very convenient, especially if you plan to use it for potting and watering plants. You may also want to consider positioning it in an area that gets plenty of natural light, as this can be helpful when you’re working with plants. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the area is level and stable, so your potting bench doesn’t wobble or tip over while you’re using it.
Where Is The Best Place To Put A Potting Bench?
The best place to put a potting bench is in a location that is convenient for your gardening needs. Ideally, it should be placed near a water source, such as an outdoor faucet, so you can easily water your plants and clean up after potting. It’s also helpful to place the potting bench in an area with good natural light, as this will make it easier to see what you’re doing and ensure your plants are getting the sunlight they need. If possible, choose a spot that is sheltered from strong winds, as this will help prevent pots and tools from being blown around. Finally, consider the overall layout of your garden or outdoor space, and choose a location that is easily accessible and doesn’t interfere with other activities.
Can I Place The Potting Bench Outdoor All Year Around?
It depends on the material the potting bench is made of and the weather conditions in your area. Some potting benches are designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions all year round, while others may need to be covered or brought indoors during harsh weather, such as heavy rain, snow, or extreme heat. Wooden potting benches may weather over time and need to be treated with a protective coating to maintain their quality, while metal or vinyl potting benches may be more durable in harsh weather. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care and maintenance recommendations.
What Can I Put On A Potting Bench?
A potting bench can be a versatile and functional addition to any gardener’s workspace. Here are some items you may want to consider placing on your potting bench:
- Pots and containers: A potting bench is an excellent place to store and organize your pots and containers. You can also use it to fill and empty pots when planting or repotting.
- Soil and compost: Keep bags of potting soil and compost on your potting bench for easy access when you need them.
- Tools: Keep your gardening tools within reach by hanging them on hooks or storing them in drawers. This includes items like trowels, pruners, and gloves.
- Watering cans and hoses: Keep your watering cans and hoses close at hand for easy access when you need to water your plants.
- Seeds and seedlings: Keep your seed packets organized and within reach so you can easily plan your next planting. You can also use your potting bench to start seedlings before transferring them to the garden.
- Fertilizers and pesticides: Keep your fertilizers and pesticides organized and within reach when you need to treat your plants.
- Decorative items: A potting bench can be a great place to display decorative items like potted plants, garden statues, and other ornaments.
What Else Can Be Recycled As A Creative Potting Bench?
There are many creative and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional potting benches that can be recycled or repurposed. Here are a few ideas:
- Old dresser or chest of drawers: If you have an old dresser or chest of drawers that you no longer need, you can turn it into a potting bench by removing the drawers and replacing them with shelves or a work surface.
- Wooden pallets: Wooden pallets can be disassembled and the pieces can be used to create a rustic potting bench. You can stack the pallets and add shelves or a work surface on top.
- Wooden crates: Wooden crates can be stacked and turned into a potting bench. You can add shelves or a work surface on top and use the open spaces between the crates for storage.
- Old doors: An old door can be laid flat and used as the work surface of a potting bench. The door knob hole can be used as a drainage hole.
- Old bookshelf: An old bookshelf can be turned into a potting bench by removing the shelves and adding a work surface on top. You can also add hooks or baskets for storage.
- Old picnic table: An old picnic table can be repurposed into a potting bench by adding shelves or a work surface on top. You can also add hooks or baskets for storage underneath.
- Metal filing cabinet: A metal filing cabinet can be repurposed into a potting bench by removing the drawers and adding a work surface on top. You can also add shelves or use the open spaces for storage.
- Wheelbarrow: An old wheelbarrow can be used as a mobile potting bench. You can add a work surface on top and use the wheelbarrow to move your potting supplies around your garden.
How Can I Prevent The Potting Bench From Rotting?
To prevent a potting bench from rotting, there are several steps you can take:
- Choose the right type of wood: Use a type of wood that is naturally resistant to rotting, such as cedar, redwood, or teak. These types of wood contain natural oils and resins that make them resistant to moisture and insects.
- Apply a waterproof sealant: Apply a waterproof sealant to all exposed surfaces of the potting bench, including the legs and underside. This will help prevent moisture from penetrating the wood and causing it to rot.
- Elevate the bench: Place the potting bench on top of concrete blocks or bricks to elevate it off the ground. This will help prevent moisture from seeping into the wood from the ground.
- Use a drip tray: Place a drip tray under potted plants to catch any excess water and prevent it from soaking into the wood.
- Store tools properly: Store gardening tools and supplies in a dry location when not in use. Moisture can collect on tools and cause the wood to rot.
- Clean regularly: Keep the potting bench clean and dry by wiping it down after each use. This will help prevent mold and mildew growth, which can lead to rotting.
By following these steps, you can help prevent your potting bench from rotting and extend its lifespan.
