A compact planter with a built-in trellis for under $30? It’s just the kind of middle-aisle find that has gardeners queuing around the block. But is it too good to be true? Lidl’s new Parkside planter box sets every… well, the box apart at first glance: a neat footprint, attractive natural wood and a ready-made support for climbing plants that can elevate any patio or even a balcony garden.
But before you load up your cart, there’s one important detail worth noting – and it will make or break your planting plans. So what’s the catch? At 5 gallons, it’s a bit small for many vigorous climbing plants. So while it’s perfect if you planter box ideas consists of a few pea plants or annual vine flowers, if you’re envisioning a row of sprawling tomatoes, then it’s not the best choice.
So how do you decide if Lidl’s latest bargain is right for you? First, you need to think about what plants you really want to grow in it. And if it’s too small, don’t worry, as we’ve picked out some great value planters with plenty of room for plants to spread out.
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Parkside Planter Box with trellis
The Parkside Wooden Planter Box with Pergola (23.6 x 11 x 39.3 inches) offers a 5.28-gallon capacity with a durable, weather- and UV-resistant design. Available in natural or grey, with a plastic insert, eco-friendly water-based varnish and built-in pergola for climbing plants and added privacy, it’s ideal for gardens, patios, decks or balconies.
Because it might be too small
Climbers aren’t just what you see above ground. To really perform – producing strong stems, lush foliage and flowers, they need a decent root course. So, in a shallow planter, some crops and ornamentals quickly outgrow their limits, which shows up as:
- Slower growth and thinner stems
- Fewer flowers and fruits
- Increased watering and fertilization needs
- Plants dry out quickly in hot weather
So what can you grow in it?
Just because Lid’s Parkside planter box is small doesn’t mean it’s not worth buying – it’s a great choice for renters and those short on space. You just have to match the plant to the container. This planter works best with lighter, less demanding climbers such as:
You can also think slightly differently and use the pergola as a support rather than a full climbing system. For example, you could bind dwarf tomatoes, peppersor even transition strawberries to lift them slightly off the ground. Alternatively, have a medium-sized climber as a plant and then surround the edges with herbs or flowers of low growth.
When to size up
If your aim is a proper vertical feature – consider a full display with foliage or a climber with a large bloom like clematis – you’ll want something closer to:
- 10-15 gallon minimum capacity for most perennial climbers or small row of tomatoes
- Greater depth for moisture retention and root stability
- A sturdier support that can handle weight over time
In other words, this Lidl purchase is best viewed as a starter trellis planter, not a long-term roof for heavy hitters.
Planter boxes with room to grow
Yaheetech Horticulture Garden Planter with Trellis on Wheels
This elevated spruce planter with trellis and roof offers a generous 21-gallon soil capacity, with a 10-inch deep planting bed, built-in drainage, and a sturdy natural wood frame designed for healthy plant growth. Mounted on smooth wheels that lock for easy positioning, it also features a pergola for climbing plants and hanging baskets, making it a versatile choice for patios or gardens.
Arlmont & Co Raised Garden Bed with Trellis and Hanging Roof
This large raised planter with trellis top combines generous planting space with vertical growing capability, making it ideal for everything from flowers and herbs to climbing vegetables. Constructed from durable spruce wood with integrated drainage, it offers a practical and visually stunning solution for maximizing garden or patio space.
Bstjewey double trellis metal planter box on wheels
This double planter box with a central trellis holds approximately 30 gallons of soil in total, giving you plenty of room to grow flowers, vegetables and climbing plants on both sides. Made from durable, weather-resistant metal with built-in drainage and smooth-rolling wheels, it combines vertical growing space with easy portability – perfect for patios, balconies or backyard gardens.
Latitude Run Arch Metal Planter Box with Trellis on Wheels
This arched metal trellis planter combines a generous 29-gallon soil capacity with a striking curved design, offering plenty of room for flowers, vegetables and climbing plants to thrive. Made from durable, corrosion-resistant metal with a drain and automatic watering system, it also features locking wheels for easy placement, making it a practical yet eye-catching addition to any patio or garden.
Happygrill raised garden bed with lattice trellis
This raised wooden trellis planter holds approximately 35 gallons of soil, providing plenty of room to grow vegetables, herbs, flowers and climbing plants in a compact arrangement. Constructed from durable spruce wood with built-in drainage and an ergonomic waist-height design, it also features a mesh trellis for vertical growing and decorative screens, making it a versatile addition to patios, balconies or garden spaces.
Costway 58″ Wicker Raised Garden Bed with Trellis
This wicker pergola planter offers a compact 15-gallon soil capacity, combining a handcrafted PE rattan finish with a sturdy metal frame for a stylish yet durable outdoor feature. Designed with an integrated liner, drainage system and vertical pergola, it’s ideal for growing climbers, flowers or herbs, while also doubling as a stylish privacy screen for patios or balconies.
At $29.99, Lidl’s planter is undeniably good value and a smart choice for gardening in small spaces. Just don’t let the trellis fool you into overplanting.
Used well, it’s perfect for quick seasonal coloring and light climbers. But expect to support a rich line of heavy climbers? You will find it smaller. If you go in with the right expectations and the right plants, however, it’s a garden steal.
