Choosing pots isn’t just about matching your decor. The container you pick directly affects how well your plants grow.
For most plants, drainage is non-negotiable. Pots should have at least one hole at the bottom so extra water can escape. If you love decorative pots without holes, use them as outer covers and keep the actual plant in a smaller, draining pot inside.
Shallow pots are fine for herbs, succulents and small flowering plants with compact roots. Deep pots suit plants with stronger root systems—bigger flowers, shrubs, or small trees.
Material matters too. Terracotta and unglazed clay allow soil to breathe and dry out a bit faster, which many plants enjoy. Plastic pots are lighter and retain moisture longer, making them okay for people who forget to water.
Big, heavy plants should go in wider, sturdier containers so they don’t topple over in wind or when bumped.
Think about your own habits: if you water often, choose pots that don’t hold too much extra moisture; if you travel or forget, pick containers and soils that stay moist slightly longer.