Almost anything can be used as a container for planting, from an old shoe to a vintage basket to a teapot or a clawfoot tub. Seriously! Most of us are likely to go with something a little more familiar, an urn made from resin or plastic, a large terracotta, or a ceramic pot.
The single most important factor for whatever type of container you are using is good drainage! If your pot only has one drainage hole you need to add a couple more to prevent root rot.
I have 42 containers on two large patios so you could say I’m sort of addicted to container gardening. I have some beautiful large terracotta pots that I’ve had for 30+ years. Some are made of resin or fiberglass. I love those because they look nice but they aren’t quite as heavy as their clay cousins. I have some plastic pots that I’ve spray painted to look as if they are made of stone. It’s amazing how a $5 can of spray paint can transform a cheaper plastic container into a “stone” masterpiece.
I have a couple of gorgeous ceramic pots that I found on sale a couple of years back but I tend to shy away from the glazed container simply because they are easier to chip or break. I’ve also found that sometimes in winter if there is moisture in them they are more susceptible to crack.
I will also admit that I have a few urns that I love so much that even though they are cracked, chipped, or discolored I still use them because of their interesting shape. I am all about repurposing a cracked pot. (Feel free to insert your joke here:)
Today we are going to talk about the pros and cons of different containers in hopes that it helps you make the best selection for you and your favorite flowers.
Terra-Cotta
Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, terra-cotta pots look great just about anywhere and their earthy color will enhance the beauty of almost any plant. Made of porous clay rich in iron, terra cotta has the ability to “breathe,” which keeps potting soils cool and wicks excess moisture away from plant roots, keeping them healthy. The main problem with using terra cotta, is that it is relatively fragile (watch for hard frosts that can crack containers) and it can dry out quite rapidly, especially in sunny locations.
Fiberglass and Resin
Fiberglass planters are created from a blend of resin and glass fibers. These pots tend to be molded to look like terra cotta or stone pots. Actually, some manufacturers have added some limestone or clay to the resin blend to create a better texture.
Fiberglass planters are lightweight, durable, and look very much like the materials they are molded to imitate. These containers do not need any special storage; they can handle any expected weather without having to be taken indoors.
Plastic
If you’re not concerned about container appearance or have plants that eventually grow to cover the pots they are planted in, plastic is a great choice. They are durable, retain moisture well, and are relatively inexpensive. They are also very lightweight, which makes them an excellent choice if you like to re-arrange your gardens.
Do not use black, or dark-colored plastic pots if your container garden will be located in a very sunny location. These colors absorb heat and will get very hot, which can damage tender roots. Light-colored containers reflect the heat and keep the roots cool.
Concrete
One thing about concrete – it’s heavy! Which makes it ideal for containing large plants or trees that require more support to keep them…well, “contained.” It also has good insulating properties, protecting tender root systems by maintaining a comfortable soil environment. When planting in exposed or public areas, concrete has the added advantage of discouraging anyone from “accidentally” walking off with your prized plants or pots. Concrete planters can be left outside over the winter without harm, which is good since you’re probably not going to want to move them.
Wood
One of the most practical and natural containers for gardening. Wood planters look great, retain water well, and are relatively lightweight. When selecting wooden containers, make sure that they are made with rot-resistant woods like cedar or redwood and check for quality construction, since the wood will shrink and expand in the elements. Planters made out of pine or other softwoods can also be used but should be painted with non-toxic paint or stain to prevent rot. As for expense, you can easily manufacture a wooden planter in no time with a few nails, some scrap wood, and a creative idea.
What qualities do you look for in a gardening container? Have you ever used an unusual container for your plants? Drop me a line by email at: [email protected] or show us your container garden on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nowhabersham
