Terracotta Clay PotsDo you use terracotta and clay pots to display your succulent plants? Find out here why they're the best choice. They have several advantages over plastic pots;
What Size of Terracotta Clay Pot do I need?Choose a terracotta pot for individual plants based on the size of the plant. Don’t over pot, using a bigger pot than what the plant needs right now.Over potting will just lead to root rot as the soil will not dry out, which is so necessary for good succulent plant growth. A pot that’s too small, on the other hand, will mean that you have to repot again very soon, and it may not be heavy enough to prevent the plant from tipping over. How to Care for Terracotta Clay PotsTerracotta clay pots can’t take any frost as they’re made from low fired clay – for winter storage, they must be emptied of soil and plants and put into a preferably frost free place, such as a basement.If they are completely dry, they will be fine outside or in a dry greenhouse or other storage area for the winter. Wash or brush any debris out of them prior to storage. New or Used?New terracotta pots are popular enough nowadays that you can find them in garden centers in most areas. Make sure you soak the pot in water before planting, to wash off dust and contaminants.I find used terracotta pots in recycle center, thrift shops or garage sales; as romantic as they seem to be initially, most people find they don’t perform well for many other plants such as annuals and anything that prefers moist situations. The preference for droughty conditions makes succulent plants a prime candidate for planting in clay pots.
A sound pot will have a ringing sound; if you hear a dull thud, there’s a good chance that it has a crack forming. I’ve had some large pots with a crack that went for a long time still in use, but you may not want to use any that have cracks or faults. Don't Discard any Cracked Pots!However, if you have any terracotta or clay pots that have cracks, don’t discard them! Do what I do and make funky and rustic garden art such as plant labels out of them. Use an industrial felt pen or paint to write plant names.
Show Off Your Best Succulent Container Idea here!How do you contain your succulents? Share it! Do you have a crafty way to display of succulent plants, Sedum, Sempervivum or other gorgeous Drought Smart Plants?
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