This also prevents the threat of spreading fungus or mold which can infect new plants and damage the pots themselves. They need to be cleaned and sterilized at the end or at the beginning of the season to avoid spreading these absorbed particles to new plants. Clay pots absorb minerals from the soil itself and also absorb chemicals from any fertilizer you might have used. I use them for growing herbs, tomatoes and peppers on the porch where the plants are protected from deer and rabbits.Ĭlay pots look tired and worn by the end of the garden season and often need a good dose of TLC to get them ready for spring planting. I am drawn to their natural look and they look good with our greenhouse. They breathe well, help to keep the soil moist but not soggy and prevent overheating during hot weather. Terra cotta clay pots are my choice for decor on my porch. These pots are still usable as focus placement in my garden or I use the pieces to aid in drainage in the bottoms of other pots.
TERRACOTTA POTS ABSORB WATER CRACK
They crack if frozen with standing water in them. The large clay pots in my shade gardens are tilted to drain during the freezing and warming of early winter or spring. After years of experience, I know the moisture required to sustain my geraniums, herbs and other plants over the winter. I bring some plants indoors to overwinter and use clay pots as I like the look of them.
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Terracotta pots are easy to identify as they are always an orange-red color similar to rust (dark or bright) but a clay pot can range in any color.Our lingering winter gave me time to get my terra cotta clay pots spruced up for spring planting. This type of coating is a water-based one and is perfectly safe for plants. If a gloss is applied, it will be one that allows for plant respiration. Once created, the terracotta pots may be coated in a glossy finish or left in it’s natural state. On the other hand, terracotta pots are also made out of clay but baked at a high enough heat to no longer have a soft consistency, even when moistened. However, this gloss can be dangerous for many house plants as the moisture is sealed in and does not allow the soil and plant to breathe, but it does lengthen these pots’ durability, helping them last much longer than terracotta pots. The clay is left to harden in the shape desired and painted with an impenetrable gloss to keep the pot the same consistency. What Is The Difference Between Clay Pots And Terracotta Pots?Ĭlay pots are created by using the natural clay found in the earth’s soil. Please read our disclaimer for more information. As an affiliate partner of various brands, we earn commissions on qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Next time you’re looking for the perfect pot for your new plant, you’ll know if terracotta is the way to go, or if you should choose a different type.
![terracotta pots absorb water terracotta pots absorb water](https://www.ikea.com/jo/en/images/products/curryblad-plant-pot-outdoor-terracotta__0951800_pe804380_s5.jpg)
![terracotta pots absorb water terracotta pots absorb water](https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/7058ce1d-9910-4fd6-9e6d-dda908c7d091.0e45a9d93ad65d478417caced98e8b19.jpeg)
These types of pots have been around for centuries.īut, are terracotta pots good for houseplants? Terracotta pots are one of the most common types of pot you’ll see at your local greenhouse. You should also consider the material of the pot and the growing conditions your plant needs. Choosing the right type of pot comes down to more than just what looks pretty (though that definitely plays a factor). There are many different types of pots available to choose from when it comes to indoor plants.