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FAQ

Atlas Pots specializes in modern outdoor planters crafted from commercial-grade fiberglass. Designed with Canadian climates in mind, our durable, winter-proof planters combine structural strength with clean, contemporary design. Whether you are searching for statement pieces for a commercial property, large planters for your home garden, or tall planters for creating privacy, this FAQ page answers common questions about ordering, delivery, sizing, care, and warranty to help you choose with confidence.

Q1 Why are Atlas Pots planters a smart investment for outdoor spaces?

Atlas Pots planters are crafted from commercial-grade fiberglass, designed for durability, winter-proof performance, and long-lasting style. Our planters and pots are lightweight yet structurally strong, resisting cracking, fading, and wear in outdoor conditions.

Founded in 2006 in North Vancouver, BC, we understand Canadian climates and design our planters so everyone can experience the joy of gardening year-round, without compromise.

Q2 How are your planters made?

Our planter and pots are made from high-grade fiberglass. Each planter begins with a design concept that is carefully sculpted into a physical form. A casting is then taken from the sculpture to create a mould. Depending on the planter’s shape, multiple mould pieces may be required to form each unit.

Whether for residential or commercial spaces, our products combine premium materials, modern design, and exceptional craftsmanship to ensure your investment lasts for years.

Q3 I am looking at your website and would like to order online. How do I proceed?

You can place your order directly through our website.

Select the item you are interested in, choose the appropriate size and colour (if applicable), and add it to your cart. Once you are ready, proceed through checkout to complete your purchase.

Alternatively, you can email or call us with your order. This gives us an opportunity to ensure that your order is available, or if it is back-ordered. We can work out details such as delivery, pick-up times, and offer helpful tips about the planter(s) you have chosen and ensure that your chosen planters will meet your needs.

Q4 Do you deliver?

Yes, we deliver! We offer delivery services on everything including our elegant tall planters and our extra large outdoor planters, and are happy to provide a quote. Please provide the full delivery address when requesting a quote.

Local delivery: Drop-off or placement options available (additional costs may apply).

Across Canada: Drop-off only. Items will arrive on a skid.

For full details, please see our Shipping Information page and review our Delivery Guidelines.

Q5 How long does it take to get my order?

Order timelines vary depending on whether you are picking up in-store or requesting shipment.

In-store pickup: If you are coming into the store, order preparation times vary depending on how many orders are ahead of yours. We will work as quickly as possible to have your order ready.

Shipping orders: It typically takes 1-2 business days to prepare an order for shipment. Orders ship Tuesday through Friday only.

We are closed on Mondays, and many shipping companies do not operate on weekends, which may affect dispatch timing.

Q6 What are your refund and exchange policies?

All sales are subject to the following policies:

  • No refunds.
  • Exchanges are available within 14 days for new, undamaged planters that have not been planted in and are in the original packaging. Original receipt is required.
  • Restocking fees may apply.
  • Special orders, custom orders, and clearance items are final sale.

Q7 What is your planter warranty?

All regular-priced planters include a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This includes issues affecting the finish and/or structure of a planter that has been properly handled, planted, placed, and is draining well.

Please retain your receipt. Original receipt is needed for your warranty.

Items marked as final sale or discounted more than 25% do not carry a warranty.

Warranty does not cover: (i) fading, scuffs, scratches, or chips (ii) any additional costs or claims other than the planters.

Warranty is void if any of the following occurs: (i) improper installation, (ii) improperly handling such as planter has been pushed/dragged/lifted/pulled while full, (iii) poor drainage or planter has been plugged, (iv) the plant is too large for the size of the planter, (v) the planter has been insufficiently supported or is not placed on level ground, the ground has settled/distorted/collapsed under the planter, (vi) neglect or misuse of planter, (vii) planter is altered in any manner, (viii) normal weathering.

*Warranty covers planters only and does not cover any other costs or claims. Atlas Pots will repair or replace defective planters, at its discretion.

Important: Exercise caution when using saucers, as they can prevent proper drainage and may affect planter performance and warranty eligibility.

Q8 I am looking for something special, do you make custom planters?

Yes, we certainly can assist with custom planters!

Do note that custom projects involve additional costs, including the creation of a new mould and potentially higher shipping fees. We will sit down with you to discuss the whole process and expected results.

Please keep in mind that all custom orders are non-refundable.

Q9 What should I consider before choosing a planter?

Before choosing an outdoor planter, know your measurements and consider how the planter will function within your space.

Helpful considerations include:

  • The dimensions of the area you’re working with
  • Other items placed in this area (chairs, tables, barbecues, walkways)
  • Sun exposure (full sun, south-facing, east-facing, shade)
  • What you plan to grow (edibles, shrubs, trees, flowers)
  • Your goal (amazing herbs, privacy, screening, decorative impact, hiding something)
  • Ensure planter is large enough for the root ball of your chosen plant/tree/shrub

Whether you’re thinking of large outdoor planters to grow trees, rectangular planters for growing herbs, or tall planters for creating privacy, considering all these factors helps to ensure the planter size and shape, material, and placement will work long-term.

Q10 How do I choose the right size planter?

The planter must be large enough to accommodate your plant’s root system and growth pattern.

It is important that the planter suits both the current root ball and the plant’s future growth. Trees and shrubs tend to grow outward, so selecting a planter that allows room for expansion helps prevent root stress and structural pressure on the planter walls.

Choosing one of our large outdoor planters or tall outdoor planters ensures your trees, shrubs, or edibles have room to thrive without damaging the planter.

If you are unsure about sizing, contact us before purchasing to ensure the planter will meet your needs.

Q11 How do I care for and extend the life of my planter?

Fiberglass and composite planters are great options for their durability and light weight, but require proper care to maintain their structure and appearance. For detailed care instructions, including cleaning, drainage, placement, and seasonal guidance, please refer to our Tips & Care page.

Q12 How do I move my planters when full?

Caution must be exercised when moving full planters.

These planters are moulded products made of multiple formed sections. Pushing, pulling, or twisting a full planter can stress the structure and cause cracks.

The larger the planter, the greater the risk to its integrity when moved while full. It is strongly recommended that planters be emptied prior to moving whenever possible.

If moving without emptying, ensure the planter is lifted and supported evenly to prevent twisting. For detailed care instructions, please refer to our Tips & Care page.

Q13 How do I prepare planters for indoor use?

All of our planters are manufactured for outdoor use and include drainage holes. To prepare a planter for indoor use, the drainage must be properly managed.

These steps will make your planter ready for indoor use:

  • Plug the drainage holes securely.
  • Line the entire inside of the planter with 3-5 ml poly, or
  • Add an appropriate layer of lava rock (or non-biodegradable styrofoam peanuts) to create a drainage reservoir.
  • Place one layer of landscape cloth over the drainage materials
  • Use sterilized indoor potting soil.

Proper indoor preparation helps prevent water leakage while maintaining adequate root drainage.

Q14 Why aren’t trays or saucers available for the planters?

Saucers and trays can impede proper drainage.

Although we carry a handful of saucers (smaller sizes), we generally do not recommend their use, especially in outdoor applications. Saucers can trap water beneath the planter, preventing full drainage and potentially affecting planter longevity.

If your planter will be placed in a completely covered area, contact us and we can suggest appropriate solutions.

Q15 I am growing bamboo. What do I need to know?

Bamboo requires special consideration because it can be aggressive and fast-growing.

If not given enough space, bamboo roots can exert pressure against the planter walls and cause structural damage. Bamboo also requires annual root maintenance to prevent stress to the planter.

For more detailed guidance, please refer to our Bamboo Care Guidelines.

Q16 May I get your products elsewhere?

All our modern outdoor planters are exclusively sold in Canada through Atlas Pots only.

Our fiberglass product line has been developed in-house over many years, however, we are able to arrange delivery to most locations!