Understanding how water will freeze is key
Does frost-resistant mean frost-proof or winter-proof?
The short answer is no. When thinking about the best way to winterize planters, there’s one thing everyone should realize: When freezing water expands, it expands with force capable of cracking steel. Therefore it is impossible to produce pots that are 100% frost-proof. The amount of water contained in the pot determines its durability. The frost-resistant pottery at Gasper is manufactured with the best quality materials and with the greatest of care. Gasper pottery is subject to strict quality controls, and with proper care, the frost-resistant glazed pottery will withstand winter months.
The best way to make your planters frost-resistant
Make sure that the bottom hole is free of debris. Fill the bottom of your planter with packing peanuts or clean drainage stone (20-30% high). Then cover drainage material with quality landscape fabric. Then fill the rest of the pot with quality potting soil. Place your pottery on a hard surface or raised on pot feet or similar type of riser. Replace all of your potting soil each spring, unless you are leaving shrubs in your planter year-round. If shrubs remain in your pottery year-round, try to replace some of your potting soil each early spring. Fresh potting soil will help with drainage.
Winter care
The best plan is to store your pottery in a dry, sheltered place. If the planted pot is to be left outside, then the container must have excellent drainage. Raise the pot off the ground to allow the water to drain and prevent it from freezing. We recommend placing the planted pot under a covered location, and you can determine the amount of water that your planted pot will need (don’t let your plant dry out over the winter). Take care to prevent water from gathering in empty containers by storing upside down or with a cover, or store in a shed or a garage.
I collect pottery. I love it. It’s very relaxing; it takes me to another planet.
