Types Of Planters And Planting Pots

The type of planter you choose can drastically alter your garden's aesthetic, influence your plants' health, and even determine the kind of flora you can cultivate.

This article will explore planters and planting pots, helping you decide on your gardening needs.

1. Ceramic Pots

One of the most preferred indoor plant containers is ceramic pots and planters.

orange and yellow ceramic pots

They are kiln-baked, made of clay, and specially glazed to give a final glossy touch. Here are some pros and cons of ceramic pots:

Pros

Ceramic pots and planters are permeable, so air and water easily reach the roots of the plants.

They are also heavy in weight, making them suitable for holding sizeable growing foliage. They won't easily get knocked down by strong winds.

Additionally, they help the plants survive in extreme temperatures. During summers, they prevent excessive heat from entering the roots and can even lock moisture in.

Cons

These pots typically have one opening at the bottom, leading to poor drainage for many plants.

You may need to drill additional holes, but be cautious as the clay can easily break or damage. They can also easily crack and chip in cold weather.

Check out these Ton Sin Grey ceramic flower pots on Amazon.

2. Plastic Pots

Plastic pots come in several colors, designs, textures, sizes, shapes, and various plastic materials. Here are their pros and cons:

Different colors plastic pots

Pros

Plastic pots are known for their durability and flexibility.

Unlike other materials, varying temperatures have minimal impact, reducing the likelihood of breakage, chips, and cracks.

Additionally, they are cost-effective, so it is easy to replace them in case of damage.

One of the significant advantages of plastic pots is their lightweight nature, allowing gardeners to move them quickly.

Furthermore, the wide variety ensures that individuals can easily find pots seamlessly blending with their décor.

Cons

One disadvantage of plastic pots and planters is that they are not absorbent. Therefore, the water circulation is not very adequate.

The trapped water and excessive moisture can damage the roots. You will need to create additional holes for added drainage.

Check out these 3-piece modern decorative plastic planters on Amazon.

3. Wooden Planters

If you want to save money without compromising on quality, then wooden planters are your choice.

small wooden planters

Wooden planters are made of rot-resistant hardwood, cedar, pressure-treated wood, etc.

Pros

With wooden pots, you can get as creative as you want. They are easy to paint, so they can be designed with any color, pattern, and texture, complimenting your overall décor.

You can easily carry them. They are less lightweight than plastic ones but are still reasonably manageable if you frequently relocate your planters.

Drilling holes in these planters is relatively more straightforward than ceramic pots. However, it provides efficient drainage by itself due to its porous texture.

They can protect plants from extreme weather conditions. During summers, they don’t absorb excessive heat, so the roots remain protected.

Cons

The shapes available are minimal. If you like curved structures, wood is not the right choice.

In the outdoors, sunlight, moisture, and frost can cause the wooden pots to spoil and rot.

As woodlice and ants feed on wood, destructive insects can ruin these pots.

They require proper maintenance, such as paint, drainers, and protection from dampness.

Check out this rectangular wooden planter box on Amazon.

4. Concrete Pots

Concrete is filled in molds shaped like planters. Once it dries completely, it is removed from the mold, cured, and the pot is ready for use.

Four round concrete pots

Pros

Concrete pots are durable and long-lasting. They last for years as long as it is not damaged by cracks or weathering.

You'll have many choices because they come in various colors, patterns, and designs.

Good quality concrete pots blend the color additives with the concrete by hand instead of having a painted exterior.

This means the concrete is colored throughout, so if your pot gets chipped, it won’t become evident as the layer underneath will be the same color.

These pots are considered to be eco-friendly and show resistance to extreme temperatures. They provide heat insulation for growing foliage and blossoms.

Cons

They are heavyweight. It is challenging to relocate these pots often. Moreover, if you drop them, they’re most likely to break.

These pots must be left out in the rain before you plant your seeds.

The dyes can cause the pH level of your soil to increase, which, as a result, may damage your plants.

It is best to keep these pots indoors if you live under freezing temperatures, as they can easily crack and break.

Check out these round concrete planters on Amazon.

5. Nursery Pots

A big line of Nursery pots

Nursery pots are made of plastic and come in various sizes and grades. Following are the pros and cons of nursery pots:

Pros

They are strong and pliable. They can withstand extreme temperatures and do not break or chip easily.

They are cheap; therefore, they are easily replaceable even in case of any damage.

They are incredibly light in weight, making them easy to carry and move around.

Cons

These pots are not very porous. Therefore, nursery pots need to have a proper drainage system.

You need to provide it with drainers or create holes so that excessive water doesn’t get trapped in them and ruin the plants.

Check out these transparent nursery pots with holes on Amazon.

6. Garden Planter Urns

The urn is more of an ornamental planter that adds to the decoration aspect of your garden. It comes in various sizes, patterns, shapes, and colors.

Garden planter urns

Material is an essential factor when it comes to urns. Here are some materials for garden planter urns and the pros and cons for each kind:

Plastic

Plastic garden planter urns are lightweight; therefore, you can quickly relocate them.

The quality is compromised because they have a low price and tend to crack and break easily.

Wood

Good quality wood is durable, long-lasting, and can resist the harshness of extreme temperatures.

They are not that difficult to carry. As pests consume wood, these urns can be subject to rotting and damage.

Ceramic

Ceramic garden planter urns have a glossy appearance as they are glazed.

They can hold heavy-growing plants because of their weight. However, if you wish to move them often, that might not be feasible as they break and crack easily.

Concrete

Concrete garden planter urns are durable, eco-friendly, and last for decades.

As with ceramic ones, these are not easy to move; therefore, deciding on the ideal location before installing them is best.

Check out these plastic urn planters on Amazon.

7. Window Boxes

Window boxes are long, narrow boxes placed on an exterior windowsill.

White window boxes with small plants

You can grow flowers and foliage in them and use them for displays, scented blossoms, and to attract birds and butterflies.

Pros

Even when the boxes are on the exterior, you can keep an eye on them and resolve any problems from the inside.

Installation, as well as uninstallation, is a relatively simple task.

They can be custom-made, so you can choose the style, size, and design that works best for your windowsill.

Cons

They may block sunlight from entering indoors.

If your windows do not open, watering and maintaining them can be difficult.

Spraying insecticides and watering them may cause window rails and ledges to stain or rot.

Check out this self-watering window box planter on Amazon.

8. Wall Planters

Wall planters are little plants that you can hang to create a vertical garden.

Different plants planted on a wall plants on a gray wall

Although they require minimum space, they come with some drawbacks as well.

Pros

In a confined space, wall planters can contribute significantly to the décor. They are cost-effective and make exquisite decorative wall art.

They are the perfect choice for people who are into minimalism. It can be displayed in an organized manner and will not make the space feel cluttered.

Cons

Only limited plant varieties can be grown in them. They are small and don’t provide much space for plants to grow.

Things can get messy when the plants grow out of them. Dirt will fall out of the planters staining your walls.

It can be difficult to water them because of the limited space.

Check out these art deco indoor wall planters on Amazon.

9. Vertical Planting Towers

Vertical planting towers are typically used in hydroponics (the process of growing plants without soil).

Vertical garden planters

It uses sand, liquid, or gravel to grow plants horizontally or vertically. Here are some pros and cons of vertical planting towers:

Pros

Plants are not subject to growing seasons with vertical planting towers and hydroponics. They can thrive all year round.

The water usage is reduced about 20 times from typical gardening and farming.

Pesticides and disease-control products are not typically necessary as the environment is already controlled. This makes maintaining the plants more accessible.

Cons

The initial set-up costs of vertical planting towers can be very high.

Taking care of the growing foliage requires specialized equipment and technical knowledge.

Read more here: 8 Stackable Planters That Can Form an Instant Vertical Garden

Check out this Nutraponics vertical tower garden on Amazon.

10. Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets are circular planters and are ideal for small plants. They can add beauty and charm to any outdoor or indoor space.

Clay hanging baskets

Pros

Plants in the hanging basket are protected from being damaged by pets as they are hung at a higher level and are out of their reach.

It is a great space-saving solution for small garden spaces. You can quickly move them around as they are lightweight and contain small plants.

They are not that expensive so that they can be easily replaced in case of damage.

Cons

Its small size limits the type of plants that can be grown on them. With the limited space, it can be difficult to water them without staining your walls.

You might also want to check out 21 White Hanging Planters That Will Look Great on Your Wall

Check out these hanging planters with macrame hangers on Amazon.

11. Grow Bags

Grow bags are large plastic or fabric bags used for growing plants.

tomatoes planted in grow bags

A growing medium is added to those bags, and holes are cut in their uppermost surface where plants are placed.

Pros

Roots tend to grow appropriately in cloth grow bags. They don’t curve back and make a cluster of tangled seeds.

As fabrics are porous material, water drainage is highly efficient.

Mildew doesn’t grow in abundance as the fabric doesn’t block all air from getting to the soil.

They are incredibly portable, stored easily, inexpensive, and reusable. To reuse, you must empty the bag, wash it, and let it dry completely.

Cons

Because of the air circulation, the soil dries out more quickly. However, you can add compost and mulch to avoid this problem.

They need a lot of water supply because of the extreme drainage.

Moisture may cause insects to take over your plants, and it is necessary to take measures to keep them at bay.

Check out these 5-pack, 5-gallon grow bags on Amazon.

12. Railing Planters

Railing planters are a great alternative to add color to your space when you don’t have enough room and resources to build a sizable garden.

Railing planters

They come in different materials. Here are some pros and cons of rail planters according to their materials:

Coco Coir

These are designed with a coco coir lining, allowing ample air to reach the plant roots.

However, they require frequent watering due to their enhanced drainage and vulnerability to wind drying.

They're particularly suited for decorative purposes.

Metal

Available in various designs, metal railing planters can be a decorative choice.

However, they may introduce toxins to the soil and are susceptible to rusting when exposed to water.

Additionally, they can easily get scratched or scuffed.

Wood

Choosing high-quality wood is essential for these planters. They offer the advantage of customization based on individual preferences.

It's crucial to safeguard them from pests that feed on wood.

Plastic

Known for their durability and longevity, these railing pots share a characteristic with other plastic planters: the need for additional drainage holes for adequate water flow.

Check out this 24" adjustable railing planter on Amazon.

13. Raised Beds

These are freestanding garden beds that are located above ground level.

Wooden raised beds in a garden

Unlike gardens or plants directly planted in the ground, you don’t need to step over it to work with it.

Following are some pros and cons of raised beds:

Pros

These beds provide better drainage that ensures longer growing seasons.

There’s minimum foot traffic as the bed is higher than the usual foot level, so the plants remain protected.

Cons

The initial set-up, installation, maintenance, and repairs can become costly.

As many plants are squeezed into a compact area, air circulation is lacking.

Check out this galvanized raised garden bed kit on Amazon.

14. Terrariums

Terrariums

Terrariums are transparent sealed globes or containers resembling a world used to grow plants inside. Here are a few pros and cons of terrariums:

Pros

Terrariums make for a small-sized ecosystem, which also adds to the beauty of a room.

Cons

Terrariums, often seen as gorgeous little globes, aren't always ideal for every living plant due to their limited air circulation.

Many terrariums lack an efficient drainage system, which can result in trapped moisture.

This stagnant environment may promote the growth of algae and fungus inside.

While plants inside a terrarium do need sunlight, they don't necessarily require high heat.

In fact, under certain conditions, terrariums can amplify heat, creating a "heating effect" inside.

However, maintaining a terrarium can be rewarding for those who are committed.

By regularly opening its lid and providing diligent care, the enclosed world inside can flourish and be well worth the effort.

View this geometric terrarium planter on Amazon.

15. Themed Planters

Themed planters are specialized pots and containers that align with specific themes or personal preferences.

Essentially, they allow you to cultivate plants in vessels that resonate with your aesthetic or requirements.

The beauty of these planters is their versatility. Choose a material, color, and pattern that complements your décor.

You can even specify your desired shape and size, ensuring a perfect fit for your space.

16. Recycled (Homemade) Planters

It is an easily achievable task if you don’t wish to spend a bulk of money on planters and desire to make one on your own.

There are a lot of items that you have around your home that can be converted into planters.

Check out this video below for some fun and clever DIY planter inspiration:

More DIY inspiration in this article: 15 Ideas for Recycled Planters for Your Vertical Garden

Wrapping Up Your Planter Journey

Navigating through the myriad of planters and planting pots can initially seem overwhelming, given the vast choices available.

However, by understanding each type's distinct characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, one can make informed decisions tailored to their gardening needs and aesthetic preferences.

Whether you're leaning towards the rustic charm of wood, the customized allure of themed planters, or the durable appeal of plastic, the right choice can enhance the health of your plants and elevate the beauty of your space.

Remember, each planter has its unique story and purpose, so choose wisely and let your garden reflect your personal journey in the gardening world.

Read more about planters and planting pots here:

17 Extra Large Indoor Planters That Will Transform Your Home

21 Small, Lightweight Planters for Your Vertical Garden

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Types of Planters and Planting Pots

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