1. Product Overview
This instruction manual provides essential information for the assembly, use, and maintenance of your vidaXL Raised Planter, model 151964. This planter is designed for outdoor use in gardens, balconies, or terraces, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for your plants, vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Image 1.1: The vidaXL Raised Planter installed in a garden, showcasing its design and capacity for plants.
2. Product Features
- Durable Corten Steel Material: The planter is constructed from Corten steel, also known as weathering steel. This material is naturally corrosion-resistant. When first exposed to atmospheric conditions, the steel develops a protective rusty layer against further corrosion, eliminating the need for painting. This feature contributes to reduced maintenance and repair costs. The distinctive brown color of Corten steel serves as a visual highlight and ensures exceptional durability for many years.
- Ample Planting Space: The planter is designed with sufficient depth and width to accommodate a large volume of soil, providing ample space for various plants, vegetables, herbs, and flowers to thrive.
- Sturdy Frame: An internal steel frame and support brackets ensure the planter's structural integrity, providing robustness and stability.
- Open Bottom Design: The bottomless design facilitates proper drainage for plants, preventing water accumulation that could lead to root rot. It also enhances nutrient absorption for healthier plant growth. The planter can be placed directly on soil, grass, or concrete surfaces.
- Safe Folded Edge: The top edge of the planter is folded over to eliminate exposed sharp edges, enhancing safety during handling and use.
3. Assembly Instructions
The vidaXL Raised Planter requires assembly. A detailed manual is included with your product to guide you through the process. Please follow the steps carefully to ensure correct and stable construction.
3.1. Unpacking and Component Check
- Carefully unpack all components from the packaging.
- Verify that all parts listed in the included assembly manual are present and undamaged.
3.2. General Assembly Guidance
- Refer to the specific diagrams and instructions provided in your product's assembly manual.
- Ensure all bolts and fasteners are securely tightened, but avoid over-tightening which could damage the material.
- It is recommended to assemble the planter on a flat, stable surface.
- Consider having a second person assist with assembly, especially for larger sections, to ensure proper alignment and stability.
Image 3.1: Dimensional diagram of the vidaXL Raised Planter (400 cm x 80 cm x 45 cm).
Image 3.2: Detail of the sturdy internal steel frame and support brackets, ensuring stability.
4. Operation and Use
Once assembled, your vidaXL Raised Planter is ready for use. Due to its open bottom design, it is suitable for direct placement on various outdoor surfaces.
4.1. Placement
- Choose a location that provides adequate sunlight and protection for your chosen plants.
- Ensure the ground beneath the planter is relatively level to maintain stability.
4.2. Filling the Planter
- Begin by adding a layer of coarse material (e.g., gravel, broken pottery) at the bottom for enhanced drainage, especially if placing on concrete.
- Fill the planter with appropriate soil or growing medium for your plants.
- Plant your desired vegetation, ensuring proper spacing and depth.
5. Maintenance and Corten Steel Rusting Process
Your Corten steel planter will arrive with a normal metallic color. The characteristic rusty appearance develops over time through exposure to atmospheric conditions. This rust layer is protective and self-healing.
5.1. Natural Rusting Process
The Corten steel will naturally begin to rust when exposed to rain and humidity. This process typically takes several weeks to months, depending on environmental conditions. The initial rust may appear uneven but will gradually develop into a uniform, stable, and protective layer.
Image 5.1: Visual representation of Corten steel's appearance upon arrival (left) and after the rusting process (right).
5.2. Accelerating the Rusting Process
If you wish to accelerate the development of the rust layer, you can follow these steps:
- Prepare Solutions: Mix water with dish soap in one spray bottle and water with salt in another spray bottle.
- Apply Soap Water: Spray the entire surface of the Corten steel with the soap water mixture until thoroughly soaked. Wipe it down several times using gloves and a cloth.
- Apply Salt Water: Once the soap water has dried, spray the surface with the salt water mixture.
- Repeat and Wait: Allow the steel to dry completely. Repeat steps 2 and 3 as needed. The rust formation will become noticeable within a few days to weeks.
- Caution: During the initial rusting phase, avoid direct contact with the developing rust layer to prevent staining your clothing.
Image 5.2: Step-by-step guide to accelerate the Corten steel rusting process.
5.3. Video Guide: How to Make Corten Steel Rust
Video 5.1: An official vidaXL video demonstrating the 6 steps to accelerate the rusting process of Corten steel. This video provides a visual guide to achieve the desired rusty finish.
6. Specifications
| Brand | vidaXL |
| Model Number | 151964 |
| Product Dimensions | 400 x 80 x 45 cm (Length x Width x Height) |
| Weight | 19.88 kg |
| Material | Corten Steel (Alloy Steel) |
| Color | Brown (after rusting) |
| Special Features | Durable, Corrosion-resistant, Self-healing rust layer |
| Style | Modern |
| Pot Shape | Raised Bed (Rectangular) |
| Usage | Outdoor |
| Mounting Type | Floor Standing |
| Country of Origin | China |
7. Support and Warranty
For any questions regarding assembly, operation, or maintenance not covered in this manual, please contact vidaXL customer support. Information regarding product warranty can typically be found on the retailer's website or by contacting vidaXL directly.
You can visit the official vidaXL store for more information and support: vidaXL Store