There is a lot to consider when choosing the best vase for your plants: the type and quantity of species, where you will position the vase, soil, watering, timing… but don’t worry: we’ve prepared a complete guide to guide you.
O size is probably the most important factor when considering the best pot for your plant, as it can directly affect the root system.
But you also need to pay attention to the material of the pot. in part by plant health and in part by the factor aesthetics. The materials vary a lot and this is where you can put your creativity to play (anyone up to growing flowers in a boot?).
Size, materials, balance between function and aesthetics… it’s almost like choosing a property for your plants. Just like us! We could get by with the most basic house, but we can be a little happier and healthier in one that is consciously, handpicked.
The right size: choose the best pot for plants to keep moist
Soil has a big impact on roots and overall plant health. If you don’t have one healthy soil, you probably won’t have a healthy plant. It is true that the size of the pot will not affect the composition of the soil, the nutrients and minerals it contains. However, it will affect the moisture level and growth capacity of the roots. See how to prepare the ideal soil here!
pot size
If you have to choose, choose one bigger vase to the detriment of a very small one. The only downside, if it’s too big, is the possibility that the soil will never dry out – which is exactly what some herbs like rosemary, thyme and oregano need. For most plants, however, it is even beneficial if the soil is always wet.
On the other hand, if the container is too small, the soil will dry out quickly and the roots will become fangs (eventually suffocating to death). If you buy a potted herb from a nursery, it’s safe to assume you’ll need to transfer it to a pot with the double the size the one in which she came.
Herbs usually don’t need to be replanted if you give them a pot big enough to start growing in, but other plants such as tomatoes, cucumbers and some flowers will benefit from this. gradual increase in pot size.
In general, a plant should have the same height than the height of the vase. Therefore, changing the vases when you realize this relationship will be advantageous. Certain herbs, such as basil and parsleyhave large roots that need a deep pot (at least 30 cm).
space in your home
it is also important plan the space in your home, on your porch, garden or backyard. Before you blindly go out and buy pots that are big enough for your plants, try to think about how they will fit and stay in the space you have.
Take some time to plan your space and try to test it, placing other objects of equal size. You’ll ensure a focused shopping trip, and it’ll be fun to see the planning come to life in an organized way.
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Plus, you’ll eliminate the potential of having to unfortunately return pretty pots because they just don’t fit!
A good consideration to make is whether you want to have multiple plants in one container. Sometimes, you can end up having a better look and actually taking up less space than many smaller vases. Herbs, in particular, can be neatly arranged side by side in a single pot. Summon your artistic side and think about what would look good in that position.
Materials: benefits and disadvantages
Terracotta
This traditional reddish-brown material is made from a iron rich clay. It is the right choice for many plant growers. This is because terracotta is a porous material that allows the soil to “breathe” by maintaining consistent temperatures and humidity levels.
its earthy appearance naturally enhances beauty of any outdoor or indoor plant. Because they’re so popular, it’s easy to find them in a wide variety of sizes.
The only point of caution is that it is susceptible to cracks in extreme temperatures and can suffer from excessive moisture loss due to their porous composition.
If possible, bring the terracotta pots indoors if the temperature outside is going to change dramatically. And if you’re concerned about moisture loss, consider using glasses as protectionso that precious moisture does not escape.
Plastic
Although plastic is not the most attractive material, it is cheap and light. This is especially important if you think you might want to rearrange your vases after a while. Also, if you are going to use plants that will grow on the sides of the pot, it is possible to hide this “not so attractive” appearance.
Unlike terracotta, with plastic you don’t have to worry about it breaking. If it’s good quality, you can last a long time. Just be careful with dark colored ones if your plants need a lot of sun. Plastic can heat up quickly, and because it is not a breathable material, heat will be trapped.
Wood
Wooden pots are a beautiful natural option and have many benefits. Like plastic, they tend to be lightweight but have the positive factor of being attractive and can be displayed. They also hold water well and come in various shapes and sizes.
Make sure you buy the ones made from wood. rot resistantsuch as cedar and redwood. If you can get a softwood one, paint it with a non toxic ink it will prevent it from rotting.
Avoid buying the cheapest versions on the market, you want a well-built vase, don’t you? This is because wood expands and shrinks depending on the temperature (it can fall apart when expanding with heat or shrinking with cold).
Even better, if you like a DIY projectyou can make one at home with scrap wood and nails, to ensure first-hand that it is of the best quality!
metal and concrete
These two materials can create a beautiful juxtaposition with what is growing within them. But be careful with the metal: make sure it’s not copper or leadwhich can be toxic.
Metal can also get very hot and the cheaper ones rust easily. But if it doesn’t rust, it could be quite durable and it’s worth a try if you like the look!
Concrete is good for large, heavier plants as it does not fall with the wind. This can be a downside, however, if you think you’ll want to move your plants in the future. If it’s of good quality, concrete will last for decades, but if it’s done poorly, it may only last a few years. This is a trend that everyone knows: the more you invest, the longer it will last!
Be creative!
Get creative with what you might have around the house, or, as mentioned with wood, build it yourself. We’ve already seen flowers coming out of handbags, shoes and even toilet bowls.
A wide variety of different vases can work, but make sure they have drain holes at the bottom. Roots don’t like to sit in water. Some ideas: use a sieve, cinder blocks, baskets or old paint cans (just poke a few holes in the bottom).
If you want to use pots without drainage holes, the double potting it is a good option. Use a traditional pot (most likely plastic) with good drainage holes, and place it in any decorative container you like.
As long as there is a little room for the water to run off, it will work fine. Using this method, plants and flowers can look beautiful in a vase, bowl, or any container that draws attention.
*Via The Green Conspiracy