The right pot can make a big difference in the way your plants thrive. So, before you buy a pot or put your plants in one, there are a few things you should know.
First, choose the biggest container that will fit in the space you intend to place it in. Too small of a pot can limit a plant’s root system and cause it to die.
1. Choose the Right Container
Whether you are growing plants indoors or out, the right container can make all the difference to your plant’s success. The type of container you choose affects the amount of water available to your plants, so it’s important to understand how different pots and soil interact with each other.
The material you use to create your planter is also an important consideration. Terra cotta and ceramic containers tend to dry out quickly, while plastic or synthetic resin pots stay cooler and retain moisture longer.
Rectangular and square pots offer excellent water and soil carrying capacity and can showcase a row of plants nicely, though they may not be as versatile as round containers in certain garden settings.
Whatever pot you choose, it should have drainage holes in the bottom so that excess water can drain away from your plants. Without drainage, your soil will become saturated and the water can pool at the bottom of the pot where it can damage your plants’ roots.
2. Choose the Right Plants
The choice of plants for planting pots can have a huge impact on the look and success of your container garden. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there are a few simple tips that will help your potted plants thrive and look great.
For starters, choose the right size of planter for your new plant. A too-large pot can dry out quickly and look out of proportion with the plant.
A too-small pot can also encourage root rot and stunt growth, which isn’t what you want for your new plant.
Understanding which container size your plant thrives in can save you time, money and stress down the line. This simple concept is often referred to as ‘right plant, right place’ and is key to creating a successful container garden.
3. Place the Plants in the Right Place
Professional garden designers say the most important thing you can do to ensure your plants stay happy is to plant them in a place where they will naturally thrive. This is a concept known as ‘right plant, right place’ and it can save you a lot of time and hassle when it comes to keeping your potted plants happy.
All plants, regardless of what type they are, have their own unique set of conditions that they thrive in. Using ‘right plant, right place’ is a simple but brilliant idea and will give you a hugely effective framework for growing your plants going forward.
The location within a room also makes a big difference, so choose a plant that will do well in a spot that has good air circulation and plenty of light. It’s important to remember that light quality can vary a lot throughout the day so make sure your plants will get the amount of sun they need for as long as possible.
4. Water the Plants
Watering your plants properly is one of the most important things you can do to keep them healthy. Whether you have a plant that’s indoors or outdoors, watering it correctly is the most important factor for its survival.
Not all plants need the same amount of water, so it’s crucial to understand their individual needs and preferences before you start watering them. Some popular houseplants, such as philodendrons and dracaenas, grow best when they’re constantly wet, while desert-dwelling species like cacti and succulents typically do better with less frequent watering.
The key is to water the soil evenly from all sides of the pot, avoiding splashing the leaves and ensuring the water reaches all parts of the plant’s root system. The water can then soak into the soil and travel along the roots, which will help to aerate the soil, prevent diseases and pests, and encourage growth.