Choosing The Right Planter: What Is The Best Pot For Our Houseplant?
Have you ever heard of ceramic, terra cotta, and plastic pots? It seems like they are all the same, and yes, they all serve one purpose, housing our houseplants. However, they differ in their advantages and disadvantages.
So, before you swipe your credit cards and do a bulk order of these, you should consider a couple of things first. It is recommended that you should get to know what you are dealing with and what it means for your beloved houseplants.
You all know that water, proper nutrition, enough sunlight, and the choice of soil mix are very important. However, you can’t overlook the fact that you need the right pot for the job.
1.Terra Cotta or Clay Pots
Terra cotta or popularly known as clay pots, are the most common type of planters available on the market. Thanks to its availability, you can find them almost everywhere.
There are a couple of advantages and disadvantages if you plan to use terra cotta or clay pots. We listed a few of them here to help you decide if they are the perfect fit for your planting needs.
Disadvantages of Terra Cotta or Clay Pots
If you undoubtedly love your pots, it would be ridiculous to get an insurance policy for them. But with that said, you have to be very careful if you are dealing with terra cotta or clay pots. First of all, it is not advisable to let them bounce around since they are made from not-so-very sturdy materials. Once you drop them, you can say goodbye to your terra cotta or clay pots.
It is also not the most resilient planter during wintertime since it would break easily due to cold temperatures. It is also worth mentioning that terra cotta and clay pots dry out the soil it holds easily, especially if you put it in places with high temperatures combining it with low humidity.
Advantages of Terra Cotta or Clay Pots
On the flip side, you don’t need to spend an awful amount from your credit cards if you are considering using terra cotta or clay pots as your main planter. It also provides a natural feel since its natural color goes along the plant well.
Another advantage of using terra cotta or clay pots all revolves around the clay’s ability to absorb and provide a physical indication of the moisture level based on the color of the pot. Terra cotta pots and plants are like matches made in heaven.
2.Plastic Pots
Plastic pots are probably the most common, the most sturdy, and the cheapest option for most people. If you are talking about mass production, plastic pots are the route. Well, no need to put huge investments in pieces of machinery. Just get a bulk of these, and it wouldn’t cost you a lot.
Plastic pots are also great if we are talking about recycling and reusing products. All you need to do is wash them out for a bit, and it should be ready for its next phase of use.
Disadvantages of Plastic Pots
There are very few negative points we could think about plastic pots. The sun’s heat is probably the most crucial aspect that you should consider if you are using plastic pots. With long exposures, plastic pots could easily fade its color and make the material brittle.
Advantages of Plastic Pots
Plastic pots are generally cheaper than anything else when it comes to the planters’ options. Even if you buy a bulk of these, for sure, your financial advisors wouldn’t mind it much. If you also want colorful options, going this route might be the way to go. It comes in all shapes and sizes as well.
Another thing that you have to consider if you are using plastic pots is its reusability. Plastic pots just need to have a quick and thorough wash, and it should be all good to go.
3.Ceramic or Glazed Pots
Ceramic or glazed Pots might be the most eye-catching piece in your arsenal, so you often place your most gorgeous plants in them. However, they might be more suitable in smaller plants like succulents.
Disadvantages of Ceramic or Glazed Pots
Most ceramic and glazed pots are a bit heavier than their size suggests, so you could only imagine if you will use it in bigger plants. It is also more expensive than the rest, so it is advisable to have good money management skills if you plan to use this in all of your houseplants. However, if you find a good deal with it, ceramic pots are always welcome to the club.
Advantages of Ceramic or Glazed Pots
Tropical plants that live in moist soil would surely appreciate ceramic and glazed pots. People would also give you a couple of plus points regarding aesthetics because of the premium-looking ceramics you use in your houseplants.