Choosing the perfect pot for the plant you've just bought isn't complicated, as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. Size, material, repotting. Pots and pot covers or saucers. All these factors can influence the growth of your plant. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of them.
Do I need a planter?
The terms "pot" and "planter" are often used interchangeably. In the case of houseplants, however, it's important to distinguish between the "growing pot" in which the plant you're buying is presented, and the "planter" that will show off your plant to best advantage.
The first has one or more holes for draining excess water. The second, essentially decorative, has no holes.
However, if you don't want to use a planter, you'll need to place a saucer under your planter to protect your furniture and floors.
Is size important?
YES. The pot must be large enough to allow your plant to grow. And it's not just the diameter of the pot that's important, but also its depth. Shallow pots are ideal for drought-tolerant creeping plants (such as succulents). Large ornamental plants, on the other hand, will need a tall, wide pot to grow harmoniously. What's more, as with children's clothes, your pots and planters should grow with the plant, to accompany its growth. Regular repotting (every year or 2, depending on the species) is therefore recommended.
The ideal pot size is proportional to the size of the plant. Generally speaking, the pot should be one-third the height of the plant. Finally, make sure that the size of your planter is slightly larger than the size of the growing pot, so that it can be easily removed and replaced.
Drainage or water storage?
Most plants hate having their roots in water!
To avoid this, make sure your pot is well drained. Drill holes in the pot. Then line the bottom of the pot with 4-5 cm of clay balls or gravel, to create a buffer zone where excess water from watering can drain away. This reduces the risk of root rot.
The advantage of the pot + planter combination is that you can check and remove any excess water left 30 minutes after watering. Pots with water reserves are particularly interesting if you're away a lot and aren't sure you'll be able to water your plants regularly.
Also read: Water reserve jars - user's guide
Which material to choose?
Stores offer a wide variety of materials for planters: terracotta, ceramic, wood or plastic. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. You'll need to take these into account.
- Terracotta: its porous nature is both an advantage and a drawback. It lets the roots breathe and dries well between waterings, but water evaporates more quickly and you'll need to be more attentive to your plants' needs.
- Wood is mainly used for shrubs or large plants. Be sure to fit the interior with a waterproof tarpaulin and a water reserve system to control watering.
- Plastic is strong, inexpensive and increasingly recycled. Plastic pots are light and strong, ideal for larger plants.
Should I repot a new plant?
It all depends on where you buy your plant. Often it's necessary to repot because the plant you've just bought is taking up all the space in its growing pot (obvious sign: the roots are sticking out of the pot) and has sucked all the nutrients out of the original potting soil. It's time to re-pot to provide a fresh, rich mix. At the same time, you can offer your plant a larger pot to stimulate its growth.
Care for pots and planters
For most planters, especially those made of ceramic or plastic, a wipe with a cloth is all that's needed to maintain their attractive exterior. Other materials are a little more fragile and require regular maintenance:
- Terracotta pots can become stained by mineral salts and fertilizers. Soaking and brushing will restore them to their former glory.
- Metal ports can rust. In this case, you'll need to sandblast them to restore them to their original condition.
- Wooden pots should be oiled or varnished to maintain their attractive appearance.
- Wicker pots eventually age. They need to be replaced.
However, it is necessary to disinfect the inside of the planter when repotting, especially if your plant is sick or infested.
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