Plantshed Blog

Choosing a Pot for your Plant

Choosing a Pot for your Plant

Author: C. W.

It seems straightforward enough. Selecting the appropriate pot for your houseplant should be a matter of taste. Anything that looks attractive should suffice. But those “shoulds” get in the way of more practical matters — little factors that make an enormous difference where repotting your plants is concerned.


Repotting is a vital form of plant care that’s essential to the vitality and long-term health of your plants. It’s simply a good practice to repot them so they can maintain their integrity and continue to look their best. If you plan to keep plants, consider it an essential part of raising them. Repotting allows you to add new potting mix so that the plant can receive the vital nutrients it needs to thrive. Here’s how to select the right vessel for your greenery.


Check the Size


The size of the container plays a major role in your plant’s future. As you select a new pot, make sure to consider its current size. The general rule of thumb is to select one that’s at least two inches bigger than the current container if it currently measures 10 inches or less. If it’s larger than that already, you should choose a container that’s up to three inches larger. This allows for changes in growth as the plant continues to thrive.


Avoid choosing a pot that’s too large for the plant in general. In cases like these, the roots can’t grow quickly enough to support the plant; instead, wet soil simply soaks the roots and causes them to drown. A neatly compact container helps plants grow far more efficiently.


Focus on Drainage


Appropriate drainage is vital to any plant’s longevity. While some pots don’t have drainage holes at the base, for simplicity and efficiency, it’s typically much more straightforward to select one that’s built to filter out excess water. Another option is to fill the base of the container with small pebbles or lava rocks. These create natural channels where any remaining water can easily drain.


The benefits of proper drainage can’t be understated; too much moisture could easily suffocate the roots and cause them to rot, eventually affecting the overall health and appearance of the plant. With that in mind, it’s best to water the soil only when it feels dry. Oversaturation cannot be reversed, but you can always add moisture if it’s needed.


Consider the Material


Just as important is the material that makes up the pot. Some of the most commonly used are wood, plastic, ceramic, fiberglass, and terracotta, all of which have their own aesthetic advantages. In general, materials like wood and terracotta are quick-drying options that allow your plants the best chance to thrive. Plastic, by contrast, takes its time drying and may leave greenery too wet to truly look its best.


Once you’ve selected an appropriate material, you can focus on the aesthetic factor. With so many options available, it’s easy to select a pot for your plant that’s as efficient as it is stylish and fashionable.