Are Clay Pots Good For Succulents? 4 Superb Facts About This Garden Equipment

Are clay pots good for succulents

So, are clay pots good for succulents? Yes! Clay pots are good for succulents. It has its versatility that you could always work out in your plants like succulents. Clay pots, however, have their pros when you use it in planting succulents. Its weight, structure, appearance durability, insulation, water absorption and draining act perfectly with the succulents. 

Compare to the plastic pots, clay pots are heavier, it may seem bad but it is good for the sake of the succulents. Because succulents tend to be heavy on top and tipping might cause danger for the succulents.

Selecting a pot or planter for succulents is often overlooked but it’s an important part of keeping your succulents happy and creating a beautiful arrangement!”

Succulentandsunshine.com

 

Clay Pots

For the most part, clay pots create a healthy habitat for plants. Clay’s porosity enables air and moisture to infiltrate the pot’s sides. This moisture and air are used by the fine roots near the soil ball’s edge. Clay pots also function as a wick, wicking away excess moisture from the potting soil.

A clay pot’s porous walls provide a great substrate for growing mosses, lichens, and other slow-growing plants. Clay pots may be used for fast-growing plants like cactus and succulents since they don’t let in too much water. However, when utilizing clay pots with cactus or succulent species, suitable drainage holes on the bottom of the pot are advised.

The biggest differences between terracotta pots and plastic pots are in their appearance, durability, insulation, and water absorption.”

Tarah Schwartz, author from sublimesucculents.com

How to Choose a Succulent Pot

Choosing a suitable container for your succulent plant is important. When choosing what type of container to use, remember to consider several factors:

The size of the plant

Plants have different needs depending on their size. Smaller plants such as bromeliads need to have more space than bigger ones like agaves. Also, larger plants need less light than smaller ones. When choosing containers, make sure you choose one that will fit your plant’s size.

The shape of the pot

Succulent plants come in many shapes and sizes. Some are round while others look like spires. Different types of pots suit each plant differently. If you want a triangular pot, you should go for one that has sharp angles.

The color of the pot

A pot should match the colors of your plant. You may want to buy a pot made out of wood if you already know the colors of your plants. Alternatively, you can paint the pot yourself. Remember to always check with your local nursery before buying any pot. They can help guide you in making the best choice.

How do I care for my succulent plants in clay pots?

When caring for your succulent plants, it is important to pay attention to the following things:

Watering

Most succulents prefer dry conditions. However, this is where clay pots differ from regular pots. Since the walls of clay pots absorb moisture quickly, it is important to keep them moist all year around. How often you water depends on how much sunlight the pots receive.

In general, clay pots should be watered once a week during the winter and twice a week during the summer. Moisture absorbing clay pots can absorb up to 10 times their weight in water per day. So, make sure to add extra water occasionally and let the pot stand empty between watering sessions.

Soil

Succulents love acidic soil. If you do not have access to a garden with acidic soil, you can mix 1 tablespoon of citric acid into 2 cups of peat moss. Mix it thoroughly and place it in the center of the pot. Make sure to cover the mixture with soil.

Lighting

Most succulents thrive in bright but indirect lighting. If you do not get direct sunlight, try placing a light bulb above the pot. Depending on the type of succulent, you may need to change bulbs every few months to ensure proper growth.

How to Repot succulents for optimal health

Repotting is necessary for anyone who wants healthy plants. Repotting provides a fresh start for new plants and helps plants adapt to changing environments. With a little bit of preparation, you will be able to repot succulants to maximize their growth potential. Here is how to do it.

Choose the right pot

It is important to choose the right pot when you begin the process of repotting your plants. The first step is choosing the size of the pot. After determining the size, look at what kinds of plants are growing in the current pot. Most plants grow better in larger pots than smaller ones. This is mainly due to the fact that bigger pots allow more air circulation. Larger pots also mean less root restriction and therefore greater chances of successful transplantation.

Prepare the pot

After identifying the correct size of pot, it is time to prepare the soil. Succulents tend to like loose, sandy soils as opposed to compacted, heavy soil. Loose soil is easier to drain and aerate. Loosen the soil by hand or use a spade. Remove any stones or debris and spread the soil evenly around the roots and sides of the pot.

Water

Make sure to water the new pot after you fill it. Allow the old soil to dry completely before adding new topsoil. Once the new soil has been added, water thoroughly and wait until there is no longer excess water left inside the pot. Wait for several days so the roots can absorb the water fully.

Transplant

The final step involves transplanting the succulents from the old pot to the new one. Start by removing the plant gently from its container. Be careful not to damage the roots or the stem. Before transplanting, soak your hands in water. Then, grasp the plant firmly with both hands. When ready, lift the plant out of its container and carefully lower it into the new pot. Be gentle!

Fertilize and water again

Once you have planted your succulents in their new home, fertilize and water regularly. Remember to water the pot thoroughly just before sunset to avoid overwatering. You should also check each plant’s needs periodically to make sure they are getting enough nutrients.