Hey there! Great question. Most standard outdoor benches do not come with a ground plate or anchoring hardware included—they’re often sold as the bench itself, plus maybe some simple assembly screws. The ground plate (sometimes called an anchor plate or ground anchor kit) is typically a separate purchase.
Why? Because not every customer wants to bolt their bench into concrete or soil. Some people just want it freestanding on a deck or patio, while others need permanent anchoring for safety, especially in high-wind areas or public spaces. So manufacturers keep the price lower by leaving it out.
That said, many high-end commercial-grade benches or those marketed specifically for parks and schools do include a predrilled base plate and mounting bolts. But for the average residential or garden bench? Expect to buy the ground plate separately.
What I recommend: Check the product description carefully. If it says “anchoring hardware not included,” look for a compatible ground anchor kit (usually a simple metal plate with pre-drilled holes and galvanized bolts). Some sellers even offer it as an add-on during checkout.
One tip: even if you buy a separate ground plate, you’ll need to drill into the bench’s legs or base to attach it. Make sure the bench’s leg material (steel, aluminum, or wood) can take that without cracking. For heavy-duty use, consider using concrete anchor bolts instead of just a surface plate.
So, short answer: no, it’s rarely included. But yes, you can easily buy one separately. Just double-check the bench’s leg design before ordering.