PLANT POTS – which material should you choose?

A great site which helps you select the different types of plant pots and containers available today and explains the range of materials you can choose from to transform your home and garden

Terra Cotta/Clay

Terra Cotta plant pots come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are made from a natural substance – clay.  It has advantages in that it is porous so it’s hard to overwater the plants and the roots are able to breathe and remain healthy. Clay plant pots do tend to dry out quickly so need to be monitored for water and can be fairly heavy. If the terra cotta is glazed it becomes non- porous and the roots of the plant will not be able to breathe. In this case it would be best to use another container inside the pot. Terra cotta will break if dropped and may crack if exposed to freezing and thawing in winter.

Fiberglass/Resin

These pots look like concrete, stone or terracotta but not as heavy and are useful for balconies or porches where weight could be a factor. They are very durable and should last many seasons.

Wood

Choose containers made from rot resistant wood such as redwood and cedar. They are unbreakable and will survive the winter but need to be of good construction as they can shrink and expand with the weather. Window boxes are often made of wood. Half barrels make good containers but can be very heavy. To make the containers lighter and use less soil add plastic packaging ‘peanuts’ to the bottom quarter. Non toxic stains or sealers should be used to avoid harming the plants and consider a plastic liner to minimize water damage. If you live in an area that is infested with termites or wood eating pests then it is probably best to avoid a wood container.

Metal

Containers made of copper steel or zinc can look good in modern settings and the surface texture of them can change as they age They are unbreakable but tend to heat up and dry out so frequent watering is required. Other metal objects, for example galvanized buckets, may be used but if they weren’t originally designed as plant pots then you need to ensure there are adequate drainage holes. Add a slice of dynamic style to your home’s decor with this stainless steel Planter On Wheels.

Plastic

These plant pots are light, durable, inexpensive and often frost resistant although they can become brittle with age. If you don’t like the look of the plastic you can put them inside another container. This will also solve the problem of them being so light that they can be knocked or  blown over.

Assorted Objects

Other objects that can be used for growing plants are only limited by your imagination. Anything you have lying around in the garage, attic etc such as old boots, wheelbarrow, an old dresser drawer can be use as long as you make drainage holes and thoroughly clean the items before use.

Turn your ordinary yard into a naturally beautiful escape with our wide
variety of outdoor planters

Now you have decided on your ideal plant pots check out our tips on potting and care of the plants.