Permanent & Elegant
Plant Markers and Stakes

We know every gardener has their favorite way of marking and identifying plants. Garden Glam is here to assist you in creating permanent labels, markers and plant stakes for your yard.

Garden Glam plant labels and stakes are designed by a Master Gardener in Oregon. Master Gardeners use the Scientific Method and our gardening advice and education is science-based. Master Gardeners are volunteer educators, neighbors, and on-the-ground researchers who serve their community with solid training in science-based, sustainable gardening and a love of lifelong learning.

Because I have invested a lot of money over the years in flimsy plastic plant markers and stakes I decided to do the research required to create a more permanent and elegant solution. Garden Glam was created to offer a Permanent Solution to identifying your plants (and add a little fun while you’re at it!)

List of the materials and the benefits for the materials Garden Glam uses in product creation:

Hardened Steel – 4”, 6”, 10” Hardened Steel Plant Stakes (See Example)

Durability: Hardened steel is resistant to wear and deformation, and can withstand heavy loads and mechanical stresses.  This makes it ideal for a plant stake in the ground.

Dimensional stability:  Hardened steel components maintain their shape and dimensional tolerances over time, reducing the risk of failure.

Cost savings:  Hardened steel components require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan, which can result in significant cost savings over time.

Alphabet Beads

Acrylic alphabet beads are made from a lightweight, durable, and non-toxic plastic called acrylic.

Durable: Acrylic alphabet beads are designed to withstand frequent handling and wear. 

Weather resistant: Acrylic beads have excellent weather resistance.

Non-toxic: Acrylic alphabet beads are non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

Copper Plant Tags – 2.5” Copper Tag (See Example)

When exposed outdoors, copper can last for decades, even centuries, due to its natural resistance to corrosion and weathering, with some estimates placing its lifespan at 60 to 100 years.  This longevity is largely attributed to the protective patina that develops on its surface when exposed to the elements. Key points about copper's outdoor longevity:

Patina formation: Copper develops a distinctive green patina when exposed to air, which acts as a protective layer against further corrosion. 

Durability: Copper is a strong, form-able metal that can withstand rust, weathering, and soil corrosion in most environments. 

Factors affecting lifespan: Environmental conditions like pollution levels and local climate can impact how quickly the patina develops and the overall lifespan of exposed copper. 

Copper is also a natural deterrent for snails and slugs because it can cause an unpleasant sensation when they come into contact with it.  

What is the Best Way to Mark a Copper Plant Label?

Place the copper label on a soft pad (such as a dish towel) and write plant names with a blunt pencil. Use a CD/DVD marker to write within the indents, making the names more prominent.

After 3 years of garden testing, Garden Glam recommends using a CD/DVD Marker.

Yes!   DVD markers can be used on plant labels, as they are designed with a permanent ink that is suitable for outdoor use and can write on plastic plant tags as well as copper and other metals.

Ink durability: DVD markers are designed to withstand fading from sunlight, which is important for outdoor plant labels. 

Surface compatibility:  CD/DVD markers are designed with alcohol-based ink that adheres well to various surfaces including metal like copper.  Also, a lot of plant labels are made of plastic, which is compatible with DVD marker inks. Look for a marker labeled as "permanent" and with alcohol-based ink, as this type of ink will bond with copper. 

Fine tip: Many DVD markers have a dual tip with a broad and fine tip, allowing for neat and detailed writing on small labels. 

Alternatives to CD markers for writing on copper:

Metal etching pens: These specialized pens are designed for permanent marking on metal surfaces, including copper, and often provide a more durable and long-lasting result. 

Engraving tools: For detailed markings, consider using an engraving tool to directly etch your design onto the copper.