Mayne Dover Weatherproof Traditional Plastic Mail Post in Black

I purchased two of the three foot planters to place on the deck to grow morning glories. The metal supports that would make them usable for window boxes seem very sturdy, but I'm not using them. The boxes are wide enough for the plants to have lots of room to grow. I haven't used the self watering function yet because I'm home all the time and the plants are still small, but it would come in handy if I left for a vacation. I'm very pleased to have these attractive planters.

Most planters require work. This window planter makes my house look alive with beauty. I can change the annuals to fit the season, I am planning to switch spring, summer fall and winter how wonderful. And they are are so well made,, easy to handle/install and last a lifetime.

I purchased 2 of these and was initially very excited when they were delivered. Per the recommendations, I installed the sub-floor (to allow for water to accumulate at the bottom and help "self water" the plants) and put the correct amount of potting soil on top. After installing my plants, I was tickled with how they looked. Then a week later, I noticed that the plants kept getting lower and lower. Eventually, it dawned on me the the sub-floor was failing and all of the soil that I installed is falling into the water reservoir. While trying to fix it, the whole dang sub-floor broke. I thought maybe I got a malfunctioning one, but then the same thing happened a few days to my other one! I'm not sure if it's an issue with the manufacturing of the sub-floor or what, but I never would have purchased these after realizing the headache it has been to plant them, take ALL of the sopping went soil out, and then re-do it all over again. I sent a complaint back to the supplier so we will see how they respond.

I have now had these boxes installed for several weeks and can hardly believe that I have not had to water them, even with our very hot, dry days this August. Since they are black (to match the shutters on the house) and get the hot afternoon sun, I was afraid the water would evaporate but that has not happened. They are very attractive and I am looking forward to many good years of service from them. I did purchase the special soil for self-watering containers at the same time, and I believe that has helped as well.

I am disappointed that Mayne did not drill the recommended 3/4" hole in the planter prior to shipping. These are very expensive planters and should be ready for use upon delivery. If you do not want to wet the leaves of your plants, the hole is essential and the only way to add water directly to the "self-watering well" at the bottom of the planter. How many people have a ¾" bit? In my old age, living alone, I do not even own a drill. Fortunately, I had a handyman in (to build some shelves) who had the tool do drill the holes for me. However, for 4 weeks, I had to water the old-fashion way and also had to use additional anti-deer spray every time I watered. I purchased two large square and one trough in black for myself and one white trough for my son. The black units appear dull or faded: but the white trough just pops on his gray deck and his 3 tomato plants are thriving. Need to wait till the end of the season before I can judge functionality and durability. Herbs and annuals do look great in the planters. As always, it is nice to fill the well and have no worries when one is away for a few days.