This large trough is ideal for planting succulents, compact alpine and rockery plants or herbs. It has the size to accommodate a good variety of plants.
 
This medium sized round trough is ideal for creating a small picturesque landscape. Its' light weight allows one to move it whenever the mood dictates
 
       

Why Stone Gardener makes Hypertufa Troughs?

Troughs can be made from many different materials, metal, stone, plastic, wood, clay & ceramics but none can claim all the advantages of hypertufa (high-per-TWO-fah). Hypertufa containers provide an ideal environment for plants, are attractive, adaptable, lightweight, strong & durable.

The thick walls of a hypertufa planter provide porosity, insulation & protection. The porous walls permit oxygen exchange encouraging healthy growth, excellent drainage for roots, while being a reservoir for water. The insulation provided by the walls protects against extreme soil temperature fluctuations. Small alpine plants which would be lost among larger plants in a garden can be raised, segregated & showcased in a hypertufa trough & hard to grow plants can have their needs provided.

Hypertufa has a weathered natural stone look which with time becomes an integral part of the overall garden. Hypertufa is a concrete product made from cement, peat moss & other aggregates. This man-made rock like material is hand shaped to look like hewn stone by us at Stone Gardener. It will age in time, some of the peat moss will be worn away by the elements with lichens (in dry sites) or moss (in wet sites) growing on the surface of the planter giving it the rugged appearance of great age.

“A trough is a garden, a landscape and a plant community onto itself”
(Eva Gallagher, Deep River, Ontario OVRGS Newsletter)

Traditionally hypertufa troughs have been used as miniature rock gardens with outcroppings of rocks & tiny alpine plants but they can be used in many other ways. Bonsai are particularly beautiful in hypertufa as the troughs mimic the environment that bonsai are found in nature.  Cacti & succulents planted in hypertufa troughs also appear to be in their typical habitat & require little care. Orchid roots need the drainage provided by hypertufa  & appreciate the air afforded.  Many types of plants can be grown in larger troughs from herbs to small shrubs. Hypertufa troughs are ideal for patios, decks or balconies.

Compared to stone that they imitate or regular concrete, hypertufa troughs are lightweight. Being lightweight they can be moved & rearranged with less effort. Troughs can be elevated to allow for easier gardening, decreased back strain & to bring plants closer to eye level.
One of the biggest advantages of hypertufa is its ability to withstand the freeze/ thaw cycle of Canadian winters after it has been properly cured. Stone Gardener slowly cures their hypertufa troughs so they will be strong & provide many years of enjoyment & service.