Pots are like homes for plants which help them to grow. They are made of materials such as cement, metal or plastic and come in a variety of colours, sizes and designs. By planting plants in Container or Pots you can decorate your garden, balcony or even inside the house. These containers are a perfect option for those who do not have much space to plant plants or who want to bring nature closer to home. You can grow fruits, flowers, vegetables and Herbs in the Containers Or Pots.
If you are considering planting plants in pots to prepare a home garden, then let us tell you that there are many containers for growing plants. But you have to consider which container will suit your garden. Here we have explained about 7 types of garden containers and their pros and cons. This article will help you in selecting the most suitable container for your specific gardening needs and setting.
7 types of garden containers with their pros and cons
1. Terracotta or Clay Pots
Terracotta pots, also known as Clay Pots (hum earthen pots). These are being used in gardening since a long time. Terracotta is made of natural soil which proves beneficial for plants in many ways. The porous nature of terracotta allows air and moisture to pass through the pot, promoting aeration and preventing water logging.
Pros and cons of Terracotta pots
Pros
- Terracotta pots have a rustic look which looks very attractive.
- It provides insulation to plant roots, protecting plants from overheating by controlling soil temperature.
- Terracotta pots are generally available at low prices, making them accessible to all types of gardeners.
- Terracotta pots meet the diverse needs of different plants and garden designs, as they are available in different sizes and shapes.
Cons
- Terracottas can be large in size and heavy, making them challenging to move or rearrange.
- Terracotta is breakable. They can break easily in very cold temperatures and if dropped.
- Due to the porous nature of terracotta, it causes the soil to dry out quickly, requiring more frequent watering.
- Older terracotta pots can crack over time, especially if exposed to extreme temperature changes.
- Although versatile, terracotta pots offer limited design options.
- Stains can develop on the surface of terracotta pots over time, making them appear older.
Read More: Top 10 Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants for Every Lifestyle
2. Grow bags
Grow bags are used as an alternative to soil or cement pots for growing plants. They available in every size, so all types of small and big plants can be easily grown in them. Grow bags offer a modern and flexible solution for gardening, fitting well with contemporary garden styles. Grow bags are also made of plastic, jute or fabric and all have their own characteristics.
Types Of Grow Bag
Pros and cons of Grow Bags
Pros
- Grow bags offer a modern and flexible solution to gardening, which fits well with contemporary garden styles.Grow bags are made of fabric that promotes excellent air circulation and drainage, preventing problems like over watering and root rot.
- They are light in weight and easy to carry, which allows the location of plants to be changed easily depending on the sunlight and space requirements.
Their flexible nature allows them to make the most of available space, making them suitable for small gardens, balconies or indoor gardening. - Grow bags are inexpensive making them a practical option for a wide variety of gardeners.
- These are available in different sizes and shapes due to which you can plant different types of plants in them.
cons
- Some gardeners may find grow bags less attractive or less aesthetic than traditional pots or containers.
- Plants in grow bags may need to be watered more frequently as they allow water to evaporate through the fabric.
Read More: Top 10 Low Maintenance Flowers Plants For Lazy Gardeners
3. Concrete planters
Concrete planters are strong containers made from composite materials made of cement, aggregates and reinforcement elements. These are made through molding process and are prepared in various shapes, sizes and designs. it Known for their ability to withstand various weather conditions. You can use them in both outdoor and indoor settings.
Pros and cons of Concrete planters
Pros
- Concrete planters have a modern look and sturdy aesthetic, making them perfect for contemporary garden designs.
- Concrete planters are durable and strong and can withstand various weather conditions. You can use these for a long time.
- The heavy weight of concrete planters provides stability, preventing them from toppling over in windy conditions.
- It provides insulation to the roots of plants. Protects them from extreme temperature fluctuations and promotes stable soil conditions.
- Concrete planters require minimal maintenance, making them a hassle-free option for gardeners.
- These are available in a variety of design shapes and sizes.
Cons
- Concrete planters are heavy which can make them challenging to move or rearrange from one place to another, especially when they are in large sizes.
- Concrete planters can be more expensive than some other containers.
- Cracks can develop in concrete planters over time or due to factors such as prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions.
- Concrete planters usually remain in a fixed location once placed, which can make it difficult to make changes to the garden design.
Read More: How To Care for Plants in Summer: 8 Ways
4. Self-watering pots
Pros and cons of Self-watering pots
Pros
- Self-watering pots provide a convenient and efficient solution to plant care, fitting seamlessly into modern gardening practices.
- Self-watering pots are the best for modern gardening as they provide a convenient and efficient solution to plant care.
- Self-watering pots have a built-in reservoir that automatically waters plants, reducing your need to water frequently.
- These pots help maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil, preventing both over-watering and under-watering.
- Self-watering pots are ideal for people who are very busy. Because these pots reduce the frequency of watering and provide a self-sustaining environment for the plants.
- These pots provide adequate moisture to the plants without waterlogging, due to which they do not have to face problems like root rot.
- These pots are available in many designs, sizes and styles, which make your garden attractive.
Cons
- Self watering pots are Costlier than other traditional pots, due to this not everyone can buy it.
- Despite low maintenance, the water system still requires periodic cleaning to prevent blockages.
- Self-watering pots cannot effectively provide air pruning to the roots
5. Metal containers
Metal containers are made from materials such as steel, aluminum or iron. They are resistant to various weather conditions and wear and tear. Metal containers are sleek and attractive in appearance. These containers are known for their low maintenance requirements. it can be use for both outdoor and indoor plants.
Pros and cons of Metal containers
Pros
- Metal containers provide a sleek and modern aesthetic, adding a contemporary touch to garden designs.
- These Container are Known for heir durability and long-lasting use. and withstand various weather conditions.
- The stylish and metallic look of Metal containers can enhance the overall look of your Garden.
- Metal containers absorb and retain heat, creating a warm microclimate that can benefit heat-loving plants.
- These Container are Available in a various design, style and Range.
Cons
- In hot Season, metal containers may absorb excessive heat, which potentially harming plant roots. It may Required Adequate insulation or shade.
- With the Time metal containers may corrode, especially in coastal areas or regions with high humidity.
- They are less portable than some other materials such as grow bags or Plastic pots.
- Metal containers may not provide as much insulation to plant roots as materials like concrete or terracotta.
6. Plastic containers
Plastic containers play vital role in modern gardening. They are lightweight and versatile, and you can use it for indoor and outdoor plants. Their affordability and Lightweight make them a popular choice among All types of Gardeners.
Pros and cons of Plastic containers
Pros
- Plastic containers are budget-friendly and accessible to a wide range of gardeners with varying budgets.
- As they are lightweight so you can Easily move them for arranging plants or adjusting their position based on sunlight requirements.
- Plastic containers are resistant to breakage and cracking, you can use it without the risk of shattering like some other materials.
- Plastic containers retain moisture well, reducing the frequency of watering and providing a stable environment for plant growth.
- These Containers are Available in various shapes, sizes, and colors.
Cons
- Extended exposure to sunlight degrades some plastic containers over time. You can use UV-resistant options are available to mitigate this issue.
- These Container may not provide as much insulation to plant roots as materials like terracotta or concrete.
- Some plastic containers may have environmental concerns due to non-biodegradability.
- In hot climates, plastic containers can heat up quickly, potentially affecting the temperature of the soil and roots. To prevent it Adequate shading may be necessary.
Read More: What is No-dig gardening and How to Start it in India?
7. Fiberglass planters
Fiberglass planters have Now become a popular choice in gardening. They offer a unique blend of durability, versatility and aesthetic appeal. These are made of composite material of glass fiber and resin which are suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants.
Pros and cons of Fiberglass planters
Pros
- These pots are designed to withstand challenging weather conditions for extended duration.
- Fiberglass pots, known for their lightweight nature, offer the convenience of easy mobility and rearrangement. With a variety of designs to choose from, fiberglass adds aesthetic appeal to your gardening spaces.
- fiberglass is also known for its ability to provide insulation to plant roots.
- By regulating soil temperature effectively, these pots shield plants from extreme heat or cold.
- Fiberglass pots demand minimal maintenance, contributing to their user-friendly nature.
- Cleaning them is a very Easy task, making them a practical and durable choice for those looking to enhance their gardening experience.
Cons
- The initial cost of fiberglass planters can be can be higher than other pots such as grow bags or clay pots.
- Fiberglass is more prone to scratches.
- Fiberglass is not a biodegradable material.
Read More: Top 7 Easy flowers to grow in pots in India
