What to Consider when Buying Plant Pots

· Home and Garden

Plants are fantastic decor elements. They beautify and freshen up your living area and provide a range of health benefits as well. However, when you become a plant parent, things start to get more difficult. This is when you start worrying about the needs of your plants, such as water, sunshine, humidity, and temperature, as well as the right kind of planter.

You should consider a variety of factors while selecting a planter pot, including drainage, material, form, size, style, and weight. So, if you're ready to become a plant mum/dad, here are some factors to keep in mind while picking the best planter.

three hand with small plant pots on their palm

Size

So, how do I pick the right planter size? To pick the right size, consider the size and type of plant you’re looking to grow. Different plants have different space and soil requirements, so it's important to choose a pot that is appropriate for the plant you are growing. For example, a small plant pot is an ideal size for herb plants, succulents, small bonsai trees, etc. These come with a drainage hole, so the excess water can seep out of them instead of pooling at the bottom. They’re available in a variety of gorgeous designs to complement your plant’s aesthetic and your home décor.

Another factor to consider is the space where you will be placing the planter. Look for large, medium, or small plant pots online that are proportionate to your space and that fit in well with your overall design. A large planter will look out of place in a small space, while a small planter can get lost in a large space.

Ultimately, the right planter pot size will depend on the specific needs of your plant, the space where you will be placing the planter, and your personal preferences. There’s a wide range of both large and small plant pots in Australia, so do your research and choose a pot that’s well-suited to your needs!

different types of plant pots and plants

Style

Your planter should be as aesthetically pleasing as it is practical. consider the design of your space and the overall aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Choose a planter style that complements the design and enhances the overall look of your space. Make sure to examine everything from your existing décor elements, colour schemes, and textures to the overall design scheme (whether your home is more traditional or modern).

Another factor to consider is the type of plant you will be growing. Different plants have different space and soil requirements, so it's important to choose large or small plant pots that are appropriate for the plant you’re growing. For example, a large tree will need a different planter than a small herb plant.

different plants in small plant pots standing on the shelve

Weight

It's important to consider the weight of a planter before buying. A heavy planter is more difficult to move, or it may require additional support, especially if it’s filled with soil and plants. On the other hand, a lightweight small plant pot is much easier to move around, but it can’t accommodate larger plants. It's important to choose a planter that is appropriate for your space and plants, and that you can easily move around.

A small, empty planter made of lightweight material such as plastic or fibreglass typically weighs no more than a kilogram, while a large, empty planter made of heavy material such as stone or concrete can weigh a lot more.

Once you fill your planter with soil and plants, it’ll weigh even more. The weight of the soil and plants will depend on the size of the planter and the type of plants you’re growing. For example, small plant pots filled with soil and a few small herbs weigh much less than large planters filled with soil and tree plants, such as Fiddle Leaf Figs and Yuccas.

yuccas outside the house in a big plant pot

Drainage

As I mentioned earlier, drainage holes have an important role when it comes to planters. they allow excess water to drain from the soil, which is essential for the health and growth of your plant. When the soil is too wet, it can suffocate the plant’s roots and prevent them from getting the oxygen they need to grow. This can lead to root rot and other problems that often harm or even kill plants.

Drainage holes help the planter release any excess water, which helps to prevent root rot and other problems. They allow the soil to remain moist, but not waterlogged, which is ideal for most plants.

Additionally, these features help to prevent water from pooling on the surface of the soil, which creates a breeding ground for pests and disease. This helps to keep your plants healthy and free from problems.

drainage hole diy

Material

Modern plant pots come in a variety of materials, each of them offering different advantages, disadvantages, and styles:

-Stone: These are strong and long-lasting, and add an elegant, natural touch to your space. However, stone planters are quite heavy, and they may not provide the same level of drainage and aeration as other materials;

-Fiberglass: These planters are made from a mixture of glass fibres and resin, which makes them strong and durable. They’re also lightweight and come in a variety of shapes and sizes;

-Clay: Clay planters are made from natural, porous materials that allow for excellent air circulation and drainage. They’re also relatively inexpensive and add a natural, rustic touch to your home. However, they’re fragile and can crack or break if you drop them or leave them outdoors in freezing temperatures.