How To Choose The Best Container for Your Houseplants

Your plants make your home a nicer place, so why not give them a comfy place to live too? Houseplants thrive in the perfect container, which is essential to their well-being. Your planter’s size and shape and the soil or potting mix you choose directly affect how much water it can soak up. A well-maintained plant container gives your plants a competitive edge. Here is how to create the perfect home for your plant friends.

Size Matters

Plants grown in larger containers almost always grow better than those grown in small or tight spaces. A spacious container provides your plant with the space it needs to thrive; however, you don’t want your plant swimming in its container either. If the container is too big, it will not be able to absorb appropriate nutrients and moisture from the soil, leaving water stagnant and increasing the probability of root rot and other pest problems.

It is best to choose a container that is 1–2 inches wider than the diameter of your plant’s root mass. Your plant will have room to grow without swimming in too much soil, and a happy houseplant greatly impacts your energy and focus too!

Drainage Holes

Your plants will be healthier and happier in a pot with a drainage hole; this allows excess water to drain so that your soil doesn’t become waterlogged and cause root rot! If you love a fancy pot that doesn’t have a drainage hole, simply keep your pot in a thin plastic pot that you can place inside the decorative one.

Choosing Containers Based on Plant Location

Knowing where you’ll place your container can also help you select the right size, shape, style, and material. Bringing a garden to life with large pots can be a focal point in your space, while smaller containers can fill in gaps.

You will also want to consider the colour of your planter, as this will influence the soil temperatures and heat absorption. Because black absorbs more heat than lighter colours, black plant pots are better for plants that require more heat to grow.

The Best Materials for Your Plants

Ceramic Pots

For indoor houseplants, ceramic pots tend to be the most popular option. You’ll find them in all styles, colours, and sizes, or you can even purchase some plain ones and decorate them yourself! There are many funky geometric designs that serve as a timeless decor staple as well. The soil in the ceramic pot absorbs moisture better and will dry the soil out quicker than plastic or metal, making them ideal for plants that prefer dry soil between watering.

Clay Pots

Because clay has a high porosity, your plants will enjoy a healthy environment as air and moisture can easily penetrate the sides of the pot. Clay pots also let you know if the plant is getting too much fertilizer as salts and minerals will build up. Clay pots look great with succulents and cacti.

Wooden Planters

Well manufactured wooden pots will last for years and keep your living space looking awesome. Since they are not as heavy as other alternatives like clay planters, you can easily move them around your space. Durability depends on the quality of wood used to make the planter, with redwoods and cedar being the best options.

Metal Pots

Metal pots are great if you want that modern industrial style, but be careful not to scorch your plants! Shaded locations are ideal since they reduce heat and glare, which can create challenging environments for plants.

There are many other factors to consider when choosing a container for your houseplants aside from aesthetics. By providing an ideal living space for your houseplants, you help assure their longevity for years to come. Visit us at Mother Nature in Powell River, BC, today to learn more about creating a perfect environment for your houseplants!