House Plant Pots and Containers

Your options for house plant pots and containers are wide. Just about any box, basket, pot or dish is a possibility for plants.

 

Whatever its size or shape, your container must have drainage holes in the bottom to allow excess water to escape.

If you want to use a decorative container that doesn't have drainage -- often called a cachepot -- you can slip a plastic container with holes inside the cachepot.

I use pebbles in the bottom of cachepots so that the plants are not sitting in water.

Choose a container that not only complements your decorating style, but suits your plant as well.

Does size matter? You bet. The container should be proportionate to the plant. Basically, you should choose the smallest container that will accommodate the roots of the plant. Moisture will be absorbed quickly in a small pot, preventing it from getting waterlogged. A too-large pot will retain too much water.

Climbing plants like bougainvillea, hoya and jasmine need support. Put your climbers in a trellis planter to show them off.

Plastic Pots

Plastic house plant pots are light-weight and low-cost, making them a popular choice for indoor gardeners.

They're time-savers, too. Since plastic pots are not porous like clay, soil will retain moisture longer and your plants will need watering less often. There is one hitch, though. Because air cannot circulate through plastic pots, you'll want to use a potting mix that drains well.

Many plastic pots have snap-on trays, which do a great job of catching water that drips from the bottom of the pots -- a must-have feature for hanging baskets.

Since self-watering containers hit the scene several years ago, they've come a long way in form and function. They truly cut down on watering chores and are worth seeking out.

Terra Cotta Pots

Simple clay flower pots come in just about every size and depth. They're inexpensive and easy to find at garden centers and nurseries.

These clay pots also have drainage holes -- a must -- to prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged. Just be sure to slip a saucer under the pot to catch any drips that come through the bottom.

Another big advantage of terra cotta is that it's porous, allowing moisture to evaporate from the soil so that roots can get the oxygen they need. New terra cotta pots are so dry that they can steal water from the soil you put in them, leaving the plants thirsty. It's a good idea to soak the pots overnight before planting in them.

Be aware that a plant in a porous clay pot will need watered more frequently than one in a plastic or glazed container.

This type is ideal for house plants that don't like a lot of moisture in the soil, such as cacti and other succulents. In fact, I can't imagine planting a cactus in anything else.

Guide to Houseplants is pleased to partner with fine associates to present you with a quality selection of house plant pots and containers.

Blue Glazed Pot

I love the sophistication of this Blue Pot with Attached Saucer. Just a scant 4-3/8" it's ideal for your smallest tropicals, succulents or herbs.

Beautifully glazed pot is in a classic style that blends seamlessly with your style -- whether it's contemporary, country-chic or traditional.

Bullet Planter

Go retro with this Bullet Style Planter.

Stylishly designed with a modern brushed aluminum finish, it'll add new shine to any plant.

You'll love this...no repotting is needed! Just drop in a 3" to 5" grow pot.

It is a time-saver, too. The self-watering wicking system waters your plant when it's thirsty.

Hammered Copper Planter

Slip a small plant into this Hammered Solid Copper Seamless Planter. Just a scant 6-1/2" but this shiny pot is sure to get attention any where you place it.

It doesn't have drainage holes, so it's a good idea to use it as a cachepot; add small rocks to the bottom to hold a plain nursery pot above the drainage water.

French Postcard Planters (Set of 3)

Handsome French Parisian Pots lend instant continuity to your smallest plants, wherever you display them.

Made of white ceramic, with drainage holes in the bottom. The French postcard design adds a debonair touch to these pots. They only look like you picked them up at an antique market in Paris.

Cube Planters in Tray

Leonardo da Vinci said, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

That's true with the Mini Cube Succulent Planters.

Made of white ceramic, these square pots are just 5-inches and fit into the bamboo tray for a modern touch.

Sierra Planter

The Sierra Bronze Planter is deceptive. It looks like time-worn Old World pottery, but it's actually made of lightweight resin. It's tough, too. Use it indoors or out. A hidden internal saucer makes watering a breeze.

Sky Planter

Give your plants a lift and add color to any space with the Sky Planter.

Smart space-saving pots hang from the ceiling and are watered from the top with a water reservoir.

• Ideal for trailing plants
  
• Includes hanging hook and wire

White Porcelain

This small White Daisy Planter is one of my favorites.

Made of fine white porcelain, it's refined and elegant, complementing any plant without upstaging it. Place it on a plant stand or small table...it fits in beautifully anywhere.