Plants add color and liveliness inside and outside of your home. The planters that you put them in can also give you ample opportunities to add even more color and style to your space. There are some important things to keep in mind as you shop for planters — these accessories are decorative, but they can also help keep your plants healthy. Narrow down your shopping options with these tips.
The planter material you select reflects your sense of style, but each one also has its own functional benefits. Here are a few of your options:
Self-watering planters feature water reservoirs that store extra water. As the plant takes in moisture currently in the pot, the reservoir releases more water for the plant. Systems like these have several benefits. They deposit water deeper into the soil, which helps roots grow healthily. They're also great time-savers if you're away from home often or don't always remember to water your plants on a schedule.
Root health is extremely important for plants. Their roots are how they get nutrients from soil and water, and having properly draining soil can keep your plants' roots healthy. Leaving a plant sitting in stagnant water can lead to rotting of the roots or keep them from absorbing nutrients properly. Planters with drainage holes at the bottom allow excess water in the soil to drain, keeping the water at a level that helps your plants thrive. While different plants have different levels of moisture tolerance, you'll probably want to create a drainage layer with pebbles, pumice, or activated charcoal when using a pot without holes at the bottom.
The needs of the plant will determine how large of a planter you should place it in. If you notice the soil in your current planter is drying out rather quickly, it might be time to move the plant to a slightly larger pot. "Slightly" is the magic word here, and you should aim for a pot diameter that's 1 or 2 inches larger than the plant's current pot. Putting a small plant into a planter that is far too big can have a negative effect on the plant; it may hold too much water in the soil and lead to root diseases. Other signs that you need a larger pot include stunted growth and roots that are coming out of the drainage holes. Some plants get so desperate for more space that their roots will even begin to crack the container.
When repotting a plant, research tips on how to handle the specific type of plant during the delicate process. It may be necessary to trim back the plant's roots, for example. Understanding your plant species' unique requirements can help ensure that you don't shock the plant, which can ultimately cause it to die.
Taking care of plants can be a relaxing hobby that adds beauty to your home. Just make sure you have all the tools you need to keep your green friends happy.
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