I have two huge plastic pots that I inherited few years ago from the former owners of my house. They are large enough to hold small trees/shrubs, and I would love to plant them with something beautiful and make them a focal point in my garden. But they are ugly - black, standard bell shape, and cheapo looking. However, anything ceramic of that size will cost a fortune.

Anybody knows a working method for giving large pots some cosmetic surgery? Obviously, I can paint them, but that would be the last resort.

In my understanding, mosaic is not a good option - too much work for something that may not last.

I saw the tutorial of covering a metal bucket with tile mesh, but probably same issue as with mosaic - not sturdy enough.

Can I cover it with concrete somehow, or not a valid option either?

Any other ideas that may work?