Artificial greenery has transformed patios, balconies and entrances that no living plant could survive — but the British weather brings one challenge: wind. A tall faux tree in a light pot will not last one gusty afternoon unsecured. With a few sensible steps, though, your outdoor artificial plants will stay put through whatever the season throws at them.
Start with UV-rated plants
Before anything else, make sure outdoor greenery is built for it. UV outdoor artificial plants resist both fading and the elements, so they hold up to sun and rain as well as wind. Standard indoor plants will not last outside regardless of how well you anchor them.
Weight the pot heavily
Wind exploits any top-heaviness. Fill the base of the pot with sand, gravel, paving slabs or set cement to drop the centre of gravity. For larger outdoor trees, the heavier the better — a firmly weighted pot is your first and best defence.
Anchor to something solid
In exposed spots, weight alone may not be enough. Secure the pot or trunk to a wall, railing, fence or the ground using discreet brackets, ground stakes or cable ties hidden in the foliage. Fixing to an existing structure takes the strain off the pot entirely.
Group and shelter
Clustering plants together creates mutual shelter and makes each one harder to topple. Positioning displays against a wall, in a corner or behind a windbreak dramatically reduces the force they face compared with standing alone in the open.
Choose stable shapes
Wide, lower plants catch less wind than tall, top-heavy trees. Where a location is very exposed, favour bushier, ground-hugging designs. Get the plant, the weight and the anchoring right and your outdoor display will look great year-round. Explore UV-stabilised options in our outdoor collection, with free UK delivery over £30.
