FAQ

There are two ways to order. Remotely: just let us know what you're looking for — for example, a round pot around 40 cm in diameter and 30 cm tall — and we'll send you a selection of suitable pots. You pick what you like. Or you come and choose a pot in person at our place in the Beemster. By appointment in Zuidoostbeemster. Get in touch via WhatsApp to arrange a visit.

Yes, of course. Come and visit us in the Beemster and pick a pot yourself. You'll see the size, texture and character of each pot up close. By appointment in Zuidoostbeemster, Monday to Saturday. Get in touch via WhatsApp.

Our pots are very heavy and bulky, so we always handle delivery personally. You simply can't hand that off to a regular courier. We bring the pots to your home and place them wherever you want. You can also collect them in Zuidoostbeemster, which is free of charge.

In the area around Zuidoostbeemster and Amsterdam, delivery starts from €35. For the rest of the Netherlands, delivery starts from €70. The exact cost depends on the distance and the number of pots. You'll always know what you pay upfront.

You can pay by bank transfer or iDEAL in advance, or by cash or card on collection. For larger orders we can also arrange a deposit.

Our pots are heavy and unique, so we ask you to take your time when visiting before making a decision. Once purchased, we cannot simply come and collect a pot. If you experience damage or dissatisfaction, please get in touch and we will work towards a solution together. In the case of defects we always offer a suitable resolution: collection, replacement or repair.

Yes, absolutely. We love working with gardeners, garden architects, landscape architects, interior architects, interior stylists, hotels, hospitality businesses, plant shops and other professionals. Get in touch via sales@montung.nl or the contact form and we'll discuss the possibilities.

For larger quantities or repeat orders we offer attractive business terms. Send us a message via sales@montung.nl with a brief description of your project and we'll put together a tailored quote.

Yes. Have an upcoming project and spotted pots that would be perfect? We're happy to reserve them so they're available when you need them. Just get in touch to arrange this.

We always start with a meeting, preferably at our studio in Zuidoostbeemster. There you can see and feel the pots and make your selection. Afterwards we agree on price, transport and planning. For large projects we also help think through logistics.

Yes, we deliver throughout the Netherlands and also arrange cross-border transport. For larger or heavier pots we work with specialist carriers. Ask about the possibilities via sales@montung.nl.

We have no connection to Olive Ateliers, but it is true that our pots have a similar look and are most likely made from the same material. Whether we share the same supplier, we honestly do not know. And as long as we have not seen and felt such a pot ourselves, we will not make claims about it. What we can say with certainty: our pots are genuine, solid natural stone, handmade and weathered outdoors for years. If you are after that same look, you are in the right place here in the Netherlands. Read more about why Montung is the European alternative to Olive Ateliers.

Our natural stone pots are generally well suited to Dutch weather and have already stood outside for many years in Indonesia. We do recommend placing pots on feet during prolonged hard frost so water can drain, and moving sensitive plants indoors in time.

Very simple: mainly leave it alone. The weathering and patina are precisely what makes these pots so beautiful. If desired, you can clean it with water and a soft brush. Avoid aggressive cleaners or a pressure washer, as these damage the authentic surface.

Our collection ranges from approximately 30 cm to over 100 cm in height or diameter. Exact dimensions are listed with each product. As these are natural stone, measurements may vary by a few centimetres.

Yes, absolutely. Every pot is handmade by local craftsmen. No two pots are the same. Shape, colour and texture always differ. What you see in the photos is exactly what you'll receive.

Yes, it can. Our pots are natural products and no two pieces are exactly alike. The shade varies from pot to pot: one looks whiter, another leans more towards beige. The weather plays a big role too. When the pot is wet or it rains, the colour turns darker, while dry and in the sun it looks very light. On top of that, every screen displays colours slightly differently. So please keep in mind that the colour and shape can differ in real life from what you see in the photo.

Yes, our pots are perfect for both indoor and outdoor planting. For optimal drainage we recommend a layer of hydro grains or gravel at the bottom. Some pots already have a natural drainage hole; for others this can be added on request.

We stand behind the quality and authenticity of our products. Every pot is personally selected and inspected by us. Should something unexpectedly not be right with your order, contact us within 7 days of receipt and we will always find a suitable solution.

Limestone is naturally porous. The stone has small holes and gaps that have formed over years of use. This means a limestone pot is not automatically watertight. For normal use as a planter, that's not an issue. If you want to use the pot as a water reservoir or fountain, we recommend treating the inside with a transparent stone sealant or pond paint. This seals the pores without affecting the appearance of the pot.

Frost damage almost always comes from the same combination: a waterlogged pot followed by freezing temperatures. The water in the pores freezes, expands, and can crack the stone from the inside. Place the pot on pot feet or tiles so water drains easily. Cover it during prolonged rain combined with frost, using a jute sack or coconut mat, never plastic sheeting. During severe frost (more than a week below -5°C), smaller pots are best brought inside. Large, heavy pots can stay outside as long as they're dry.

Yes, easily. You'll need: a small submersible pump, a water hose or outlet fitting, and transparent stone sealant for the inside. Optionally, you can drill a hole for the cable just above the base. Apply the sealant in two coats on a dry interior before placing the pump and adding water. Let each coat dry thoroughly. Before winter, drain the fountain completely and bring the pump inside. Have questions about the right sealant? We're happy to advise.

No, for normal outdoor use that's not necessary. The pores in limestone are precisely what give the stone its character: they absorb moisture, give moss and algae a foothold, and allow the stone to develop a beautiful patina over the years. Only if you want to use the pot as a fountain or water reservoir do we recommend a transparent stone sealant on the inside.

With water and a soft brush. Stubborn green or black deposits can be removed with a solution of water and mild soap. Never use hydrochloric acid or other acidic cleaners — these directly attack limestone. Avoid a pressure washer at close range or bleach: these damage the surface and penetrate deep into the stone.

Yes, and for most of our customers that's exactly what makes it beautiful. Moss and algae are not damage, but a characteristic of a living material. A little green instantly gives a pot more age and character. If you do want to remove it, use a soft brush and water — no chemicals.

Yes, and that's exactly as it should be. Limestone adapts to its environment. After rain the stone looks darker; in the sun it lightens up. A pot in the shade develops moss, a pot in full sun stays dry and pale. Both are beautiful, and both are exactly what limestone is supposed to do. Your pot continues in your garden with a story that's already decades old.