Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter Review: Worth the Money? Yes!
First Impressions
Is there anything more satisfying than adding a touch of natural beauty to your outdoor space? Last spring, after a particularly harsh winter that did a number on my patio garden, I decided it was time for an upgrade. I wanted something stylish, durable, and easy to assemble. That’s when I stumbled upon the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter.
The moment the package arrived, I was impressed. Everything was neatly packed, and the cedar wood had that wonderful, fresh scent. The black aluminum posts looked sleek and modern against the warm, golden-brown wood grain. Assembly was a breeze, and I quickly had the Vita Mezza planter ready to go. What I didn’t expect was how much it would transform my patio – it instantly became a focal point, adding a touch of elegance I didn’t know it was missing.
Ready to hear about my experience growing everything from herbs to flowers in the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter? Let’s dive into the details.
Key Features & Specifications
Here’s a features section for the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter, crafted from my own experiences:
Features of the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter
FSC-Certified Cedar Construction
The Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter is crafted entirely from FSC-certified cedar lumber, which I find to be a huge plus. This means the wood comes from responsibly managed forests, and you can actually feel good about your purchase knowing it’s not contributing to deforestation. I’ve always been conscious about the sustainability of my home décor, and this planter aligns perfectly with those values.
Beyond the environmental benefits, the cedar itself is beautiful. The natural wood grain is enhanced by the golden brown, pre-stained finish, and it adds a touch of warmth to my patio. Plus, cedar is naturally resistant to decay and insects. I’ve had the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter outdoors for several weeks now, exposed to both sun and rain, and it still looks as good as the day I unboxed it. I can tell that this thing is built to last.
Stylish Anodized Aluminum Posts
I have to say, the black anodized aluminum posts are what initially caught my eye with the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter. The contrast of the dark metal against the warm wood is just stunning. These posts aren’t just for looks, though – they provide sturdy support for the planter, adding to its overall durability.
The anodized finish is a clever touch, too. It’s much more resistant to scratches and corrosion than a painted finish. I accidentally bumped one of the posts while rearranging my plants, and I was relieved to see that it didn’t leave a mark. The sleek modern look these posts bring to the planter helps it fit seamlessly into my outdoor decor.
Ideal Size for Herbs and Decorative Plants
At 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches, the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter is the perfect size for growing a variety of herbs or displaying decorative plants. I currently have a small herb garden flourishing in mine, with basil, mint, and chives all growing happily. I really like how the size accommodates a decent amount of soil, which helps the plants thrive.
I also tried using the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter for some colorful petunias, and it looked fantastic on my front porch. The size is large enough to make a statement, but not so large that it overwhelms the space. It’s a versatile size that would work equally well on a balcony, patio, or even indoors (with a liner, of course).
Not Fully Watertight – Indoor Use Considerations
It’s important to note that the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter isn’t fully watertight. While this isn’t an issue for outdoor use, it does mean you’ll need to take precautions if you plan to use it indoors. I actually learned this the hard way! I initially placed the planter directly on my hardwood floor, and after a heavy watering, I noticed a small puddle forming underneath.
Luckily, I caught it in time, but it definitely taught me a lesson. Vita Mezza recommends using a liner or potting your plants in separate containers, and I would strongly agree. Since then, I’ve used a plastic liner, and it’s worked perfectly. Now, I can enjoy the beauty of my plants indoors without worrying about water damage. This planter with a liner looks great inside and outside of the house.
Who Should Buy This
Alright, let’s talk about the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter. I’ve had one of these in my backyard for a few months now, and I’ve also seen a couple of my friends using them in different ways. So, I’ve got a pretty good handle on who would really benefit from adding this planter to their outdoor or indoor space.
Who Should Buy This Vita Mezza Planter?
First off, let’s consider the apartment dweller with a small balcony. I have a friend, Sarah, who lives in a downtown condo. She loves gardening but is seriously limited on space. For her, this Vita Mezza planter is a game-changer. It’s compact, so it doesn’t overwhelm her tiny balcony, yet it’s deep enough to accommodate a decent-sized tomato plant or a collection of herbs. Plus, the pre-stained golden brown woodgrain looks really classy against the modern metal railings of her balcony. The black aluminum posts add a touch of modern elegance that fits her style. Alternatives like plastic planters just don’t have the same aesthetic appeal and tend to crack in the sun, which she found out the hard way. The Vita Mezza planter gives her a little slice of nature in the city without sacrificing style or space.
Then, there’s the busy professional who wants a low-maintenance garden. I know a guy, Mark, who’s a lawyer and is constantly on the go. He barely has time to water his existing plants, let alone build a raised garden bed. The Vita Mezza cedar cube planter is perfect for him because it’s pre-stained and FSC certified, meaning it’s durable and sustainable. It requires minimal upkeep; he just needs to add soil and plants. Plus, the 12x12x12 inch size is ideal for creating a small herb garden near his back door, making it easy for him to snip fresh herbs for cooking without a lot of fuss. He tried self-watering planters before, but they were either too small or didn’t look as good. This strikes the perfect balance of convenience and aesthetics for Mark’s busy lifestyle.
Another ideal user is the senior citizen with limited mobility. My grandmother loves to garden but has trouble bending down to tend to plants at ground level. The Vita Mezza cedar planter, when placed on a small stand or table, provides the perfect raised surface for her. It allows her to garden comfortably without straining her back or knees. The sturdy construction of the cedar means she can lean on it for support while she’s weeding or watering, something she couldn’t do with lighter, flimsier planters. And the pre-stained woodgrain gives it a classic, warm look that she loves. She’s been using it for growing her favorite flowers, and it’s really brightened up her patio.
Finally, think about the design-conscious homeowner who values aesthetics. This is really where the Vita Mezza planter shines. The combination of the golden brown woodgrain and the black aluminum posts gives it a sophisticated, modern look that blends seamlessly with various outdoor decor styles. It’s a step up from the basic terracotta pots you find everywhere. I’ve seen a few folks line these up along a patio edge, creating a neat, uniform look. Its square shape and clean lines allow for a geometric, architectural feel that’s hard to achieve with more traditional, rounded planters. If you’re looking for something that is practical and adds a touch of class to your outdoor space, the Vita Mezza is a solid choice.
Who Might Want to Pass?
Now, who might not benefit from this planter? If you need a massive space to grow multiple rows of vegetables or require a custom-built solution for a very specific area, this pre-fabricated cube planter might feel too limiting.
In summary, the Vita Mezza 12 inch cedar cube planter is a fantastic option for apartment dwellers, busy professionals, seniors with limited mobility, and design-conscious homeowners who appreciate a blend of style, convenience, and functionality in their outdoor spaces. It’s a great way to bring a bit of nature into your life, regardless of your space or lifestyle.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter, after spending a few weeks with it in my backyard:
Pros:
- Attractive Woodgrain Finish: The “Golden Brown” pre-stain really pops, and the woodgrain detail gives it a natural, high-end look. It instantly upgraded the aesthetic of my patio.
- Sturdy Cedar Construction: You can immediately tell the Vita Mezza planter is made from real cedar; it has that pleasant cedar aroma and feels solid to the touch. I’m confident it’ll hold up for a few seasons, unlike some of the flimsy plastic planters I’ve tried.
- Perfect Herb Garden Size: The 12x12x12 inch size is absolutely ideal for a small herb garden. I’ve got basil, rosemary, and thyme growing in mine, and they seem very happy with the space.
- Modern Aluminum Accents: The black anodized aluminum posts offer a sleek, modern contrast to the warm wood. It makes the planter stand out, without being too flashy – a nice touch!
- Easy Assembly (Mostly): Putting the Vita Mezza planter together was pretty straightforward. The instructions were clear, and I had it assembled in about 20 minutes using just a screwdriver.
- Responsibly Sourced: It’s great knowing the cedar lumber is FSC certified, meaning it comes from responsibly managed forests. It makes me feel good about my purchase.
Cons:
- Not Fully Waterproof: As the product description mentions, the Vita Mezza planter isn’t watertight. I learned this the hard way when I first overwatered my herbs; now I always use a liner, especially after a rainy spell!
- Questionable Aluminum Quality: While the posts look nice, the aluminum seems a little on the thin side. I’m not sure how well they’ll hold up over the long term.
- Warranty Limitations: The 1-year warranty against material defects is decent, but I wish it covered more. I’m a little concerned about how the cedar will weather, especially given my rainy climate.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s a comparison based on my experience with the Vita Mezza planter and some of its competitors. I’ve tried to give you the honest lowdown as if we were chatting over coffee, comparing notes on our gardening projects.
Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 vs. Yaheetech Wooden Elevated Garden Bed
I recently used the Yaheetech Wooden Elevated Garden Bed for a small herb garden on my patio. While it’s a decent option, after setting up the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727, I noticed a few key differences.
First, the Vita Mezza planter just looks more upscale. The black aluminum posts give it a modern edge that the Yaheetech, with its simpler wood construction, just doesn’t have. Secondly, the pre-stained golden brown finish on the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 felt more durable and weather-resistant than the Yaheetech’s, which seemed like it would need re-staining sooner. I felt more confident leaving the Vita Mezza planter out in the elements.
That said, the Yaheetech does have an advantage in size. If you’re looking for a larger growing area, the Yaheetech’s elevated bed offers more space than the compact cube design of the Vita Mezza planter. For instance, I was able to plant more tomato plants with the Yaheetech because it provides a bigger footprint.
Ultimately, I’d choose the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 for its aesthetics and perceived durability if I wanted a smaller, statement piece for a deck or balcony. If you need a larger growing area and don’t mind a more basic look, the Yaheetech is a solid, cost-effective option.
Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 vs. Keter Easy Grow Patio Raised Garden Bed
The Keter Easy Grow is another popular option in this category. It’s made of plastic, which immediately sets it apart from the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727’s cedar construction. Having used both, I can say the Vita Mezza wins hands down in terms of aesthetics and material quality. Cedar just feels nicer, and I appreciate the natural woodgrain of the Vita Mezza. Plus, cedar is naturally rot-resistant.
The Vita Mezza planter also scores points for its robust construction. The black aluminum posts provide solid support and contribute to a higher-end feel. The Keter felt a little flimsy in comparison.
However, the Keter has a built-in self-watering system, which is a definite plus for busy gardeners. I found this feature very convenient because you don’t have to water the plants as frequently.
I’d pick the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 if I value natural materials and a sophisticated look. But if convenience is your top priority and you’re okay with plastic, the Keter Easy Grow could be a better fit. For me, the natural look and feel of the Vita Mezza is always a winner.
What Users Are Saying
With a solid average rating from reviewers, the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 is clearly resonating with a lot of folks! Going through the feedback, a few key things jump out: people love how easy it is to assemble, the way the cedar looks (and smells!), and how durable it seems to be holding up. Let’s dig into some specific experiences:
Maria from Atlanta, Balcony Gardener: “Living in an apartment with limited space, I needed something that looked good and wouldn’t take up too much room. The Vita Mezza planter was exactly what I was looking for! It’s sturdy, looks beautiful, and was so easy to put together. I’m growing herbs and the cedar smell is wonderful when I’m out on the balcony. I couldn’t be happier! ” (5-star review)
David from Seattle, Modern Homeowner: “I wanted something to complement the contemporary design of my house, and the Vita Mezza 12 inch planter was the perfect choice. The combination of the golden brown woodgrain and the black aluminum posts is super stylish. It was incredibly easy to assemble, and it feels very well-built. I’m using it for some small ornamental trees near the front door, and I get compliments on it all the time!” (5-star review)
Susan from Rural Vermont, Experienced Gardener: “I’ve been gardening for over 40 years, and I appreciate quality materials. The Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter is a step above the cheap plastic ones I’ve used in the past. The FSC certified cedar feels substantial, and I have no doubt it will hold up to the Vermont weather. The pre-stain is a nice touch too. I’m using it to start some vegetables before transplanting them to my raised beds.” (4-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727
When I first integrated the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 into my daily routine back in January, I was primarily looking to solve my lack of accessible fresh herbs. What I didn’t expect was how it would completely change my approach to container gardening.
During a particularly dreary week last month, the Vita Mezza 12 inch x 12 inch x 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter with Black Aluminum Posts, FSC, Golden Brown, Woodgrain, Pre-Stained, VT17727 proved its worth when the rosemary I planted in it back in February miraculously started to bloom. Seeing those tiny blue flowers against the backdrop of the golden brown cedar, juxtaposed with the stark black aluminum posts, was a real mood booster. The woodgrain texture is surprisingly tactile; I often find myself running my fingers along it while I’m watering.
I’ve positioned the Vita Mezza planter on my patio, right outside my kitchen door. This makes snipping off a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme for dinner incredibly convenient. My husband, who usually couldn’t care less about gardening, even started using the herbs in his weekend grilling recipes! He comments on how the planter looks upscale compared to the plastic pots I used previously. The pre-stained finish is holding up beautifully against the elements, and I appreciate the FSC certification knowing the wood came from responsibly managed forests.
Admittedly, assembling the planter took me a little longer than anticipated. The instructions were fairly straightforward, but I struggled slightly with aligning the aluminum posts perfectly straight. However, a quick adjustment and a bit of elbow grease solved the problem. Compared to other cedar planters I’ve owned, the Vita Mezza feels sturdier and more refined, thanks to the metal accents. The square shape is also a nice departure from the traditional round pots, lending a modern, clean aesthetic to my outdoor space. It’s surprisingly lightweight when empty, making it easy to move around to catch the best sunlight. Overall, it’s been a solid investment, and I’m already planning to buy a few more!
Final Verdict
Final Verdict: Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter
After spending the last month with the Vita Mezza 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter gracing my patio, I’ve really come to appreciate its blend of form and function. The golden-brown, woodgrain finish is simply beautiful, and the black aluminum posts give it a modern edge that complements my outdoor space perfectly. This isn’t just a planter; it’s a piece of outdoor décor.
Who would benefit most from this planter? I’d say apartment dwellers with small balconies, or anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their patio or deck without a lot of fuss. It’s also ideal for beginner gardeners who want a contained space to experiment with herbs or flowers.
The biggest strength of the Vita Mezza Cedar Cube Planter is undoubtedly its ease of assembly and its overall aesthetic appeal. It took me maybe 15 minutes to put it together, and it genuinely elevates the look of my outdoor space. However, while the cedar is pre-stained, I do wonder about its long-term durability in harsh weather – that’s something I’ll be keeping an eye on.
All things considered, I highly recommend the Vita Mezza 12 inch Cedar Cube Planter. At its current price, it’s a fantastic value for the quality and style you get. If you’re looking to add a sophisticated touch to your garden or balcony without breaking the bank, you won’t be disappointed. It really is a stylish and practical way to showcase your green thumb!
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