Choose the Right Style and Size of Pot for Plants
Choosing plant pots for indoor and outdoor plants is just as important as the plants themselves and you need to know what pot to use for a particular plant.
24/11/2022
Indoor and outdoor plants have become an essential element in home decor. Adding just a few plants here and there can bring life to any room and bringing nature indoors is also a nice way to add a touch of greenery to an otherwise bland setting.
Over the last few years, we have seen how particular indoor plants have trended to become 'plants of the year' and garden centres and home decor stores have accommodated buyers to add these plants to their selection. One plant in particular that comes to mind is the Fiddle Leaf, which was increasingly popular over the last couple of years. Regardless of trendiness, plants, both indoors and outdoors, are rewarding to grow and with a little care and patience, they can be a feature in the home.
I recently purchased a selection of resin pots with interesting ethnic designs and geometric patterns at Builders.
Finding the perfect plant pot for a particular plant isn't just about buying any plant pot. There are a few things you need to keep in mind when you go shopping and we discuss some essential points to consider before you buy.
Buying Pre-Potted Plants
Purchasing pre-potted plants from a nursery or garden centre are the easiest way to find plants that you like and that are in good condition. The only downside to buying pre-potted plants is that the pots are usually too small and the plant is suffering with roots crammed inside the base. It is never a good idea to keep plants in the plant pots they came in, not only because the pots are generally cheap plastic ones, but more for the fact that the plant will need more root space to flourish and that means you need to go looking for new pots.
Potting plants in a small pot means that you will only have to re-pot to a larger one if you want the plant to grow and flourish.
Check the Size of the Pot
You should avoid a pot that is too small at all costs, and that includes a pot that is the same size as the one being replaced. By re-potting a plant, you are allowing the plant to spread out its roots and be less susceptible to fungal infections and root rot. A sure indication of a plant needing a larger pot is when the roots start to shoot through the base of the plant pot. Another indication is slow growth or lack of flowering or the plant becoming infected or prone to disease.
Re-potting to a plant pot the next size up will increase growth and allow a house plant to reach its full potential. Research has proved that increasing the size of a plant pot as the plant grows can increase growth by as much as 40 per cent. Plants will be healthier and less likely to suffer from stress and diseases.
Choose the Material
Plant pots and containers come in different materials, styles and sizes which is great because it allows you the freedom to select the best pot for a plant and one that also complements your home and decor.
Plant pots and containers can be made from plastic, terracotta or clay, ceramics, fibreglass, fibre cement, concrete, and even wood. The material used for the container should be of a material that will not be detrimental or harmful to the plant and should add visual appeal to either the interior or exterior of a home.
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Plastic Plant Pots and Containers
Plastic plant containers have always been popular but lately, eco-conscious individuals are looking at more sustainable options and we are not seeing much in the way of recycled or recyclable plastic flower pots and containers. Another concern with plastic plant pots is the risk of BPA contamination. Although research is ongoing on this topic, many horticulturists do not recommend the use of plastic pots for growing herbs, fruit or vegetables. Additionally, keep plastics away from sunlight as heat can aid in the release of BPA.
When shopping for plastic containers or pots, or any plastic item, check the recycling code on the base of the pot. Plastic labelled 1, 2, or 4, can easily be recycled, other codes not so much.
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Ceramic Plant Pots and Containers
While ceramic plant pots or plant containers are perfect for both indoor and outdoor plants, they are one of the more expensive options for plants. They can also be the most difficult to source in a particular style. Having said that, with increased access to online shopping sites, you can now go and search for items you want and browse the best designs at the most affordable price.
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Clay or Terracotta Plant Pots and Containers
Clay or terracotta pots and containers are the best choice for plants that do not require a lot of water or regular watering. The pot material allows moisture to evaporate quickly which means that more frequent watering is required. Clay pots are also prone to staining on the interior and exterior and it can be difficult to clean this.
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Wood Plant Pots and Containers
Wood is currently a popular product for use as a plant container, but keep in mind that it will require quite a bit of maintenance to prevent wood rot. If you want a pot that ages naturally or adds a rustic touch, line the inside of the container to prevent damage by moisture.
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Choose the Shape
The shape of a plant pot doesn't really make any difference other than how it will look with a particular plant or planting arrangement. Square pots are easier to arrange in groups or straight lines but, most importantly, offer more space for root growth while round containers bring a soft edge to straight lines and corners.
An arrangement of tall planters with sculptural plants creates an eye-catching feature indoors or outdoors.
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