How to Choose Plant Pots

Container garden has become a popular method of gardening and for great reasons. When compared to other methods, container garden offers excellent drainage, increased mobility and fewer weeds than regular garden plots.


While all planters are designed with the same function – grow flowers, plants, herbs, vegetables, etc. different features can make one type more appealing to you than others. For example,  different sizes and materials have pros and cons related to how well plants can thrive and how much the planter increases the look of your space.

Nowadays, there is a wide range of flower planters for sale. You can choose the colour, shape, size that best fit your taste and needs. Choosing the right one for your needs will depend on a few factors that are listed below.

Size

The size of your plants is what will determine how large or small the planters need to be. For example, small seedlings and cuttings have a simple root structure, so a small planter can meet their needs. Larger plants with more complex roots will require larger containers to accommodate their fast-growing roots.

Drainage 

When looking for flower planters for sale, it is important to check if they have proper drainage holes. In addition to having enough room to grow, plants also need adequate oxygen for the roots. Plus, excess water should be able to escape otherwise the plants will drown.

Porosity

Porous planters such as those made from unglazed clay or terracotta, paper pulp, timber or other natural materials, allow air and moisture to move through them. This is great because it allows air to circulate around the root of the plant and the moisture to evaporates out, cooling the soil. This helps draw excess water and prevent rotting. One disadvantage of these pots is that they dry out more quickly and so does the soil. That means they need watering more frequently.

Weight 

When soil gets moist it tends to get very heavy and if you choose a heavy container, this will make it difficult to be moved around. So, make sure you consider the weight of the pot. This is especially important if you will be placing your planters on a balcony or a deck. You may have to talk with an engineer to find out if the structural capacity can handle a heavy plant pot. Also, if mobility is what you want, you should go with a pot made from a lightweight material or put them on casters before you plant your plants on it. On the other hand, if stability is what you are looking for, a heavy pot may be a better option for tall plants.

Durability

The length life of your planters will depend on the type and quality of the material they are made as well as the place they will be located. So keep in mind if you only need a temporary pot or one that will last for years to come.