Different plants need various soil temperatures to thrive. The properties of clay pots are changeable. It can adapt to the plant and its surroundings. A shaded fern keeps the porous material cool since the pores of the pot allow evaporation. A planter with a cactus in it will absorb heat. Because of their versatility, clay pots can be your best friend.
Choosing the Right Pot
You’ve probably seen clay planters in various sizes, prices and styles. The quality of the clay is what determines the pot’s quality. The firing temperature of a kiln will too. A coarse pot disintegrates over a few years. Heavy pots that have thicker walls usually last a few years. When choosing one for your plant, pick one large enough for the mature root system of the plant. If you choose to re-pot, go up at least one size.
Planting & Growing
Terra cotta planters need to be soaked in water overnight to saturate the clay. This keeps it from leeching moisture out of the soil. Don’t overfill the pot because the potting soil expands as it absorbs the water. Be careful to keep the drainage holes in the bottom open. Place a coffee filter in the bottom of the planter to keep soil from draining out with excess water.
Terra Cotta Care During the Off-Season
Your clay pots should be cleaned to prepare them for the off-season. This prevents the spread of viruses and bacteria. Dump out any loose soil and use a stiff brush to remove any other dirt. Once you’ve scrubbed them by hand, you can run them through the dishwasher with a bit of white vinegar. Store them outside once they are clean.