Care & Maintenance

Unless otherwise indicated, our outdoor containers can be left outside over the winter with the following steps.

If a container is to be left planted over the winter, it should be raised up off the ground by placing two pressure treated wood strips underneath it, making sure not to block the drainage hole. This will allow the soil to drain and will prevent the planter from freezing to the ground. If a planter is placed directly on the ground and goes through several freeze-thaw cycles, drainage may be blocked. This may cause an expansion of the soil inside the planter, which in turn may cause the planter to crack or crumble. Drainage materials such as small stones or terra cotta chips may be placed at the bottom of the container before filling with soil to ensure proper drainage. 

If a container is not to remain planted over the winter, it should be stored in a covered area where it will be protected from the elements. If a container must be left outside unplanted, we suggest that it be emptied and turned upside down onto wood strips. It should then be covered or wrapped with burlap or any absorbent material (old blanket/towel) and then wrapped with dark plastic. This will prevent moisture from accumulating. Please note that even if a cast stone container is raised off the ground, there is always the risk that the container will absorb water through its surface which, when frozen, can cause the planter to crack or break.

Cast stone produces a strong and durable product that will weather naturally in an outdoor environment. Simply stated, cast stone is chosen for its beauty and authenticity. Our material is natural, authentic, made in the USA, and 100% recyclable. 

GFRC, Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete, is a cement-based composite material with moisture-resistant glass fibers randomly dispersed throughout the material. The high compressive strength of our GFRC results in a frost proof, thaw proof, rust proof, and fire proof material that meets the standards for commercial use. GFRC planters can withstand UV exposure and extreme temperatures, from high heat to frost, and can tolerate the seasonal thaw cycles when planted as recommended. They won’t corrode due to exposure or direct contact with soil.

Containers can be cleaned with either water or Windex® with Ammonia-D. Spray down the surface of the container where it is dirty and use a lint-free cloth or sponge to wipe the surface. It may take several cycles of wiping and drying before the container is completely clean. This is normal and to be expected with the texture in the fiberglass. Do not pressure wash, use alcohol based cleaners, apply corrosive cleaners, or clean with anything abrasive.

Glazed and terra cotta containers are hand made from natural clay using traditional artisanal techniques and high-fired at temperatures between 990-1000 °C to ensure frost resistance and durability. Glazed containers are coated with natural glazing elements that are baked onto the surface to enhance the products' resistance to weathering. Most of our outdoor glazed pottery can be used in the design of custom water features. For quality control, these natural clay containers are rigorously tested in freeze-thaw conditions. Our glazed and terra cotta containers are appropriate for use indoors and outdoors with proper planting and care in regions where freeze-thaw cycles exist.

Cleaning Instructions

Glazed and terra cotta containers can be cleaned with either mild soapy water or Windex® with Ammonia-D. Spray down the surface of the container where it is dirty and use a lint-free cloth or sponge to wipe the surface. It may take several cycles of wiping and drying before the container is completely clean. Do not pressure wash, use alcohol based cleaners, apply corrosive cleaners, or clean with anything abrasive.

Lightweight steel containers are made of steel sheets 1.2 mm thick. The natural oxidation of the surface is chemically accelerated until the desired rust coloration is achieved. The surface patina is then stabilized, and further oxidation is prevented by application of a chemical sealer. 

Our steel containers are frost-resistant.

Each container has drainage holes and is raised on attached feet to limit contact with the ground surface and to permit air circulation below the container to reduce moisture. Always place your container on a solid-level surface and not directly on grass, soil, or an uneven surface. If a container is to be left planted over the winter, ensure proper drainage. Avoid collection of standing water in the bottom of the container, which can cause rusting and deterioration. If used outdoors, it is recommended that an appropriate sealer is applied to maintain the surface finish and prevent oxidation. If not sealed, the container will darken and rust. If oxidation occurs, rust may leach onto the ground surface with the potential to stain. Natural aging is expected. The use of fertilizers or other chemicals can affect the container’s appearance. Continuous and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause slight color fading.

These classic steel containers are handcrafted in Europe and are among the finest metal containers available in the marketplace today. 

To prevent rusting, every piece is fire galvanized by dipping it into a hot zinc bath. These containers will weather naturally to create a beautiful antique zinc patina. Planter boxes are not designed for direct planting and are intended to be used with an interior grow pot or liner. 

Cleaning Instructions

We recommend cleaning planters and fountains with mild soapy water using a clean sponge or lint free cloth or if needed, a soft bristled brush. If a planter is scratched and the protecting zinc layer is damaged, cold galvanizing paint or paste (containing actual zinc) should be applied to the damaged area to prevent rust. Should rusting have already occurred, remove rust with fine sandpaper or steel wool and clean before applying the cold galvanizing paint or paste..

Installation

The fountain should be set up on a flat, level surface to ensure proper water flow.

A properly prepared base of gravel, flagstone, or other hardscaping material is preferred to maintain stability.

The pump and tubing will be provided. Check that the pump works BEFORE assembly by placing it in a bucket of water and operating the pump. You may adjust the water flow by using the regulator on the pump. The wheel turned clockwise reduces the flow, and counterclockwise increases it.

A fountain pump should only be connected to a properly grounded 110 volt (AC only) GFCI protected receptacle.

Basic Maintenance

Consistent filling is required to maintain a proper water level and ensure that the pump remains totally submerged. If the level of water is too low, the pump will be damaged. How often a fountain should be filled depends on water flow and specific weather conditions in which the fountain is running. Appropriate water level is also required for proper fountain performance.

Keep pump inflow free of debris to ensure proper water flow. Periodic cleaning of the pump will extend its life.

If desired, the fountain may be cleaned with mild soap and a soft bristled brush. DO NOT use bleach.

Algaecide and water stain removing solutions can be used to combat the buildup of algae and calcium/lime buildup. 

Basic Pump Troubleshooting

Winter Care

Remove the pump and empty the water before the first hard freeze. If you do not wish to remove the pump, you must still remove the water and cover the fountain. No water must be allowed to accumulate in the fountain during hard freezes.

Efflorescence, the leaching of salts from the raw materials to the surface of the piece, may occur, resulting in a powdery white residue that will eventually wash away. This process will only occur once. 

Glazed fountains and their basins must be emptied and covered, or removed and stored inside, before the first hard freeze. If water is trapped inside or around the base of glazed fountains, the freeze and thaw cycle may damage the product.

Our handmade copper fountains will patina over time if they are not sealed and treated to prevent it. We recommend a clear coat of Rustoleum or similar every season to keep the original copper color. The quality and longevity stay the same whether or not the piece is allowed to patina.

Our metal fountains may be left outside and uncovered in the winter, as long as the pump is removed or protected from water.

Installation

It is recommended to have a landscape professional install all in-ground basin fountains.

All installation kits include a molded plastic basin designed to be lightweight and support large and heavy fountains. Additional support columns will be provided as necessary.

Our natural stone fountains are shipped with a complete installation kit, unless otherwise specified. Natural stone fountains and the molded basins can be left uncovered over the winter as long as the pump and tubing is removed or thoroughly protected from water for the winter.

Installation

It is recommended to have a landscape professional install all in-ground basin fountains.

All installation kits include a molded plastic basin designed to be lightweight and support large and heavy fountains. Additional support columns will be provided as necessary.

Cast stone produces a strong and durable product that will weather naturally in an outdoor environment. Simply stated, cast stone is chosen for its beauty and authenticity. Our material is natural, authentic, made in the USA, and 100% recyclable. 

All cast stone products will age naturally with exposure to the elements. Efflorescence, the leaching of salts from the raw materials to the surface of the piece, may occur, resulting in a powdery white residue that will eventually wash away. This process will only occur once.

Birdbath tops should be covered, removed, or turned upside down during the coldest winter months to prevent possible cracking from freeze-thaw cycles.

Unless otherwise specified, all statuary can stay out all year long without additional care.

Cast stone produces a strong and durable product that will weather naturally in an outdoor environment. Simply stated, cast stone is chosen for its beauty and authenticity. Our material is natural, authentic, made in the USA, and 100% recyclable. 

All cast stone products will age naturally with exposure to the elements. Efflorescence, the leaching of salts from the raw materials to the surface of the piece, may occur, resulting in a powdery white residue that will eventually wash away. This process will only occur once.

Glazed products are hand made from natural clay using traditional artisanal techniques and high-fired at temperatures between 990-1000 °C to ensure frost resistance and durability. They are coated with natural glazing elements that are baked onto the surface to enhance the products' resistance to weathering. For quality control, these natural clay containers are rigorously tested in freeze-thaw conditions.

Cleaning Instructions

Glazed products can be cleaned with either mild soapy water or Windex® with Ammonia-D. Spray down the surface of the container where it is dirty and use a lint-free cloth or sponge to wipe the surface. It may take several cycles of wiping and drying before the piece is completely clean. Do not pressure wash, use alcohol based cleaners, apply corrosive cleaners, or clean with anything abrasive.