Pots & Planters: The Wrong One Can Stunt Your Plants

Choosing the suitable pots and planters isn't just about looks. They can make a substantial difference in how well your plants grow.

The wrong plant pot can stunt your plants' growth, lead to overwatering, or even cause root rot. But don’t worry! We’ll walk you through the common mistakes people make with pots and planters and how to fix them.

Drainage is Essential with Planter Pots

One of the most common problems with pots and planters is poor drainage. People tend to think plants need water when they don't. But when water can’t drain properly, it builds up and causes root rot, which can kill your plants.

How to Fix It

Always choose garden pots with drainage holes. If you love a planter without them, consider adding a layer of gravel at the bottom or drilling holes.

Better yet, try self-watering planters, which offer built-in drainage systems to keep your plants from sitting in water.

Self-watering planters are a game changer, especially for busy plant lovers. These pots hold water in a reservoir at the bottom, allowing the plant to absorb moisture as needed. This prevents overwatering and keeps your plant hydrated consistently.

They work for indoor and outdoor plants and ensure that your plants get the right amount of water without the risk of root rot.

The Size of Your Pots and Planters Matters

It's not as simple as grabbing any old planter pot. Choosing the proper pot size is crucial for your plant's health and growth.

Planters That Are Too Small

Too small, and the plant’s roots become crowded and stressed. That limits their ability to absorb water and nutrients, stunting their growth. Even worse, it can bind the roots, where the roots wrap around themselves and strangle the plant.

Small pots also dry out more quickly, meaning you'll have to water more frequently to keep your plants healthy.

Finally, less soil volume leaves less space for essential nutrients, which leads to weaker, less vibrant plants.

Plant Pots That Are Too Large

Conversely, pots and planters that are too large hold excess soil, which can retain too much water. That makes it harder for the roots to access the oxygen they need, potentially causing root rot.

With more soil than the roots need, the plant may focus more on root development and less on above-ground growth, resulting in a plant that appears to "stall" in its growth phase.

How to Fix It

When choosing a new pot, aim for one that’s about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than your plant’s current root ball. This will give the roots enough room to grow without overwhelming them with too much soil.

If you’re repotting a plant, look for signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes or circling the soil surface. These are clear indicators it’s time for a bigger pot.

Shallow vs. Deep Pots: How Pot Shape Affects Growth

The shape of your pot is just as important as its size. Different plants have different root systems, and the depth of the pot can either help them thrive or limit their growth.

When to Use a Shallow Pot

Plants like succulents, cacti, and herbs typically have shallow root systems. These plants do well in wider, shallow pots that allow their roots to spread horizontally rather than deep into the soil. Small bowl planters support better airflow around plant roots.

Shallow pots are ideal for plants that don’t need much soil moisture. Lesser soil dries out more quickly, making it perfect for succulents and herbs.

When to Use Deep Planter Pots

Plants with deep root systems, such as tomatoes, trees, or certain flowering plants, need deeper pots to accommodate their roots.

The roots won’t have enough room to grow downwards if grown in shallow pots. This can stunt their development and make the plant top-heavy or unstable. Deeper roots help anchor the plant and improve nutrient absorption.

Deeper round and square planters also work well with plants needing consistent moisture. The greater depth allows the roots to access water from deeper soil layers.

How to Fix to It

For shallow-rooted plants, look for planter pots that are wider and not too tall. These are perfect for succulents, herbs, and small houseplants.

For deep-rooted plants, choose taller garden pots with more depth to accommodate root growth. Plants like roses, tomatoes, and indoor trees will thrive in deeper pots.

Your Plants Outgrow Your Pots and Planters

Plants outgrow their pots as their roots expand and consume more space. Have you ever removed a plant from its planter and seen the roots circling the pot? That's a clear sign that it has outgrown its planter. Root-bound plants struggle to absorb nutrients and water, slowing their growth.

Equally important, the soil in your pots and planters compacts, reducing airflow to the roots. Roots need oxygen to "breathe," and compacted soil makes it hard for air to circulate. Poor airflow can lead to suffocation of the roots, slow growth, and, in some cases, root rot.

This issue encompasses most of the concerns mentioned above.

3 Signs It's Time to Repot

You'll likely see one of these signs as a signal it's time to consider repotting your plant:

• Visible Roots: Roots growing out of the drainage holes are the most obvious sign that your plant is root-bound.
• Slow Growth or Yellowing Leaves: If your plants stop growing or have yellow leaves, you might want to consider repotting. Overcrowded roots might prevent your plants from getting enough nutrients.
• Water Runs Right Through the Pot: If water drains too quickly, it could mean the roots have filled the entire pot. As a result, there's no room for soil to retain moisture.

How to Fix It

Select a new planter pot that is about 1-2 inches wider in diameter than the current one. A pot that’s too large can hold excess moisture, which might lead to root rot.

For most houseplants, repotting once every 1-2 years is sufficient. Fast-growing plants may need repotting more frequently, while slow-growing plants can last longer.

Keep an eye on the signs mentioned earlier. And don’t wait for your plant to show severe distress before giving it more room to grow.

Help Your Plants Thrive with Pots and Planters from Root & Vessel

Choosing suitable pots and planters is critical to keeping your plants healthy and thriving. Small changes, such as proper drainage and the right pot size and material, can make a difference.

Root & Vessel has pots and planters in every size, shape, and color, so you can be confident you'll find the best planter for your needs. We also have a huge selection of self-watering planters. All our planter pots come with a satisfaction guarantee.

Ready to upgrade your plant care? Check out our range of pots and planters to give your plants the perfect home!