Vases for Plants

Glass

• A glass vase lets you see how much water remains in the vase, so that the flowers don't accidentally dry out. However, very hot or very cold water can cause a glass vase to crack. And of course, glass itself is breakable. Glass vases include simple, standard glass vases such as those floral shops use, as well as cut glass or etched crystal vases with elaborate designs.

Metal

• You also can put flowers in vases made of metals such as bronze, stainless steel, aluminum and tin. The history of flower metal vases dates back to Hellenistic Greece, according to the University of Colorado. Metal vases can feature intricate designs. They also are very durable, unlike glass or clay, they are unlikely to crack or break if they fall. However, some metal vases rust over time from exposure to water. Especially if you plan to use the vase outdoors, make sure that it will not rust.

Clay

• There are several kinds of vases that use clay as their base material; these include china, ceramic, terra cotta and porcelain vases. These vases often feature lovely designs painted or formed onto the vase. They can go with many decors, from the elegant to the simple. However, like glass, they will break.