A potting bench, also called a potting table, is a type of raised outdoor workbench with a flat-top work surface and storage for gardening essentials. They are a useful tool for gardeners and indoor plant enthusiasts, offering a surface for repotting plants, shelves, and drawers for storage. Choose the right one for your indoor or outdoor space to enhance your gardening experience.

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Learn more about how to get the most out of your potting bench with these potting bench ideas.

How to Choose a Potting Bench

When shopping for potting benches, think about the type of gardener you are and keep that in mind when you decide on height, material, and surface. Determine whether you plan to use your bench inside or outside, if you need storage, or just a surface for repotting. Follow these step-by-step considerations to choose the right potting bench for you.

1. Choose the Right Size

The most common height for a potting bench is 36 inches, which is the same height as a standard kitchen counter. A potting table that’s too high will prevent you from being able to see inside of your pots as you work with them. If it's too low, it may cause stooping or back strain. You should also make sure your potting bench is the right size for your space – measure the spot where you’re planning to keep your bench and then shop options that will fit within the available space. You can filter by the right potting bench dimensions on Wayfair's site.

2. Decide on a Material

Different materials will determine the look, maintenance, and durability of your potting table. Choose the one that will work best for you and your space:

• Wood: Treated wood is durable, sturdy, and natural looking. Choose a paintable bench so you can stain or paint it however you’d like – we recommend giving outdoor benches a fresh coat yearly for enhanced longevity. Keep in mind, wooden potting tables are the heaviest of all, making them more difficult to move around once set up. It’s also important to clean them regularly to keep bacteria, molds, and fungi from growing on the surface.

• Metal: Most commonly made of stainless or galvanized steel, these benches are long-lasting and easy to maintain. Steel is non-porous and can be cleaned with a quick hose-down. Steel can be prone to rust, so make sure to dry it after cleaning. Steel potting benches are great for industrial style spaces.

• Plastic: Plastic is the most affordable and lightweight material for potting benches. They are easy to move around and require less upkeep than wooden benches. The plastic/vinyl coating only needs to be hosed down and wiped dry.

3. Decide Which Features You Need

Consider these features when choosing a potting bench that meets your needs:

• Cabinets: Cabinets keep your potting station looking neat, they are especially great if you want to keep certain items (like an unsightly trash can) hidden. A lockable cabinet is a great way to keep little hands from getting hold of any pesticides or other products they shouldn’t have access to.

• Shelves & Drawers: Shelves provide multiple tiers of storage. Place items you use regularly at the front of the shelves to make them more easily accessible. A potting table with various shelves is especially useful because of the large array of tools and equipment they can hold. It’s even possible to add additional storage with baskets, mason jars, and hooks where you can hang your tools. Benches with drawers are great for storing small gardening tools, and protecting them from the weather.

• Sink Basins: A sink basin is a fantastic feature to help you keep things clean. Choose from a variety of water-access options, such as plumbing line attachments, or a basin that you simply attach to your garden hose. Many sink potting tables have removable closed tubs for easy cleanup. Once the tub has collected your excess soil and debris, you can remove and empty it in the garden. A sink gives you fast water access without the need to run to and from the nearest tap.

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