How to pick the right pot for your succulent (2024)

A modern pot

You have just bought a beautiful succulent plant, one that will fit in your home perfectly.

But now you wonder: "How do I choose the right pot?". Choosing the right pot is an important factor to think about because it can be the difference between your plant thriving or dying no matter how much you care for it. Picking the best pot for your succulent is not all about getting the right color; it is the kind of container that makes the difference.

In this guide, we'll go over a few different topics:

At the end of this guide, you'll know which pot is right for you and your succulent and you'll be ready to give your succulent the best living conditions to help it thrive.

What should I look for when getting a pot for my succulent?

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First, make sure the pot has a proper drainage system so that it prevents any excess water from gathering in the soil, this can be extremely harmful to the plant. Drainage is essential for the healthy growth of a potted plant.

As well as proper drainage, it is worthwhile to consider the material and size of the pot. If we keep that in mind, we have set out the best way to choose the right pot for your succulents in this guide.

What material is right for my succulent plant pot?

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The vital thing to remember when buying a succulent plant pot is the material from which it is made. Here are some of the more common materials used so you can pick which works best for you.

Terracotta and Ceramic Pots

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Either of these makes a beautiful succulent container. They are ideal and work well both indoors and outdoors because they are made from breathable materials. Succulents can typically deal with harsh climates like intense heat, and terracotta is the ultimate material as they soak up the heat.

A hanging pot

Tip: When planting succulents in either terracotta or ceramic pots, choose plants that can handle the frost better. That way, you will not have to move the containers inside during the winter months. Once planted, they can be heavy and hard to move if you've got large pots.

Also keep in mind that ceramic pots are prone to cracking or breaking, especially if they are dropped or hit against a hard surface.

Clay Pots

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Clay pots are a great choice for succulents because they offer a versatile and attractive look. Clay is also durable. Additionally, clay can absorb heat from the sun, which helps with keeping your succulent warm in harsher climates. The breathability of clay also allows air and water to circulate freely around the root system of the plant, preventing overwatering.

Plastic and Fiberglass Pots

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If you're looking for a more modern and lightweight option, plastic and fiberglass pots are perfect as they are easy to move around. These materials are often available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and shapes, and can be cleaned easily with soap and water. However, as you have probably guessed, plastic and fiberglass pots don't have the breathable qualities of terracotta and ceramic pots.

When you water your plants, it will not seep away or evaporate. For this reason, it is essential to make sure you use good draining soil as well as create some holes in the plastic so that it can drain excess water. Succulents do not like sitting in water!

Wooden Pots

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Although wooden planters are great containers, you must always make sure you treat the wood to stop it from rotting. If they're not too large and awkward to lift, they are great, as they can be moved easily. This will prevent your plants from getting too hot.

A wooden pot

Tip: If you use wooden planters, be sure to add a plastic container or pond liner inside it. This will not only help prevent any moisture from getting into the wood, causing it to rot but will also stop the plants from getting damaged. Any excess moisture in a pot can cause root rot.

Glass Pots

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Despite glass containers giving a contemporary look, without any drainage holes, they are impractical. Overwatering of succulents is probably the most common reason for the plants dying. It is important to remember that with any succulent, you need to have good drainage.

Metal Pots

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Although metal pots may look cool and trendy, they are not suitable for this type of plant, ultimately because they are prone to rust, which can cause damage to the plants. If you decide to use a metal planter, be sure to use it in the short term and then move them to a different type of container permanently. Long-term use of metal pots is not recommended.

Natural Pots

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Another great option is to create your pots using natural materials, such as wood, stone, or coconut shells. These materials add a natural touch to your succulent display. However, keep in mind that natural materials may not be as durable as other options and may require more care to maintain.

There are a variety of materials available for succulent pots, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Don't be afraid to get creative and try out different options until you find the perfect pot for your plants.

Is there a particular pot shape that is best?

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If you're wondering what type of pot is best for your beloved succulents, you're not alone! The good news is that succulents are fairly adaptable and can grow well in a variety of containers. That being said, some pot shapes tend to work better for these plants.

First, it's important to note that succulents generally prefer well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes. Without proper drainage, excess water can accumulate in the pot and lead to root rot.

With that in mind, the shape of the pot can also play a role in keeping your succulents healthy and happy. Since succulents have shallow root systems, they don't necessarily need a deep pot. A wider, shallower pot can be beneficial for allowing the soil to dry out more quickly between waterings.

Many succulent enthusiasts also prefer pots with a wider opening, as this gives the plants room to spread out and can provide better air circulation. Some popular pot shapes for succulents include shallow bowls, terra cotta pots, and ceramic containers with drainage holes.

Ultimately, the best pot shape for your succulents will depend on your individual preferences and growing conditions. Just remember to prioritize proper drainage and choose a pot that allows your plants to thrive.

Can I use a pot without drainage holes?

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If you've only got a few pots that don't have drainage holes, you might be wondering if you can still use these for your succulents. Luckily, the answer is yes! However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using a pot without drainage holes for your succulent. Without adequate drainage, excess water can accumulate in the soil and lead to root rot, which can be fatal for your plant.

To prevent this, ensure that the soil you use is well-draining and that you water your succulent sparingly, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings.

Additionally, it's a good idea to add a layer of gravel or rocks to the bottom of your pot to keep the soil off the bottom of the pot. This will allow excess water to collect in the bottom of the pot, away from the roots of your plant. You can also tilt the pot slightly to encourage drainage and prevent water from sitting stagnant.

Finally, keep an eye out for signs of overwatering, such as yellowing or wilting leaves. If you notice any of these symptoms, adjust your watering routine accordingly.

How much space do I need in my pot?

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When you're putting your succulent in a new pot, you should leave at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) between the edge of the pot and your plant. This will give the plant plenty of space to spread and grow. If you intend to plant more than one succulent in your pot, leave 2.5 cm (1 inch) between each plant, so they have guaranteed growth room. This is crucial if you are thinking about creating a terrarium or garden with your plants.

While it is vital to allow your plants room to grow, avoid the impulse to give them too much space as this can also be counterproductive. When you give your succulent too much space, it could cause the plant to spread its roots out too far, too quickly. This can prevent the plant from growing correctly overall.

Tip: Light and water are the two vital things a succulent plant needs. This is important to keep in mind if you are grouping different types in a single pot. If you do not think about this carefully, the taller plants benefit from the light, and the shorter plants will suffer from a lack of it.

How often should I repot my succulent?

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Succulents are known for their hardiness and low maintenance, making them great plants for both beginners and experienced gardeners. While they don't need much pruning or watering, you might be wondering how often you should repot your succulent to help it thrive.

In general, succulents should be repotted every two to three years. However, this can vary depending on the type of succulent you have and the conditions it's grown in. For example, if your succulent is planted in a pot that's too small, it might need to be repotted sooner.

When it's time to repot your succulent, look for signs that it's outgrown its current container. This can include roots sticking out of the drainage holes, the plant leaning to one side, or the soil drying out much faster than usual.

To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot and carefully separate any tangled roots. Then, place it in a new pot with fresh potting soil, making sure to leave enough space for the plant to grow.

Remember that succulents prefer well-draining soil, so be sure to choose a pot with a drainage hole and use a soil mix that contains sand or perlite. And don't worry if your succulent looks a little sad after repotting – it might take a few days for the plant to adjust to its new home.

How deep should my succulent pot be?

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One of the common mistakes a beginning plant owner makes when planting succulents is using a pot that is too deep. This can cause insufficient light to reach the plant. If the lower leaves of your succulent look unhealthy or seem to be rotting, planting them in a pot that is too deep could likely be the cause. In this case, planting your succulent in a less deep pot will help your plant to be healthier.

How deep should I plant my succulent?

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Be sure that your plant is in the soil enough so that the lower leaves sit level with the rim of the pot (or a little higher). The exception to this rule is if you have planted your succulent in a glass container. In this case, sufficient sunlight will get through to the plant even if they are planted slightly lower down.

Why should I consider the roots of my succulent?

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Ultimately, when choosing the best pot or container for your plant, their root system is an essential factor to note.

They have two types:

Hair roots: these are fine, hair-like roots that grow on the soil surface where they can absorb moisture. The best type of pot for succulents with hair roots is a shallow pot.

Taproots: typically, these grow deeper in the soil in search of water. If your plant has taproots, then you must provide it with a deeper pot, which should be filled with wholesome and nourishing soil.

How does the size of a pot affect a succulent's growth?

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Succulents are fascinating plants that can thrive in a variety of conditions, making them a popular choice in the world of gardening. However, one aspect that often goes overlooked is the impact that the size of the pot can have on their growth.

It's important to understand that a succulent's roots need room to grow if the plant is going to thrive. If the pot is too small, the roots will become cramped and won't be able to absorb the nutrients and water they need. This can lead to stunted growth and yellowing leaves.

On the other hand, if the pot is too large for the succulent, this can also cause problems. A pot that is too big will retain more moisture, which can cause the soil to become waterlogged. This can lead to mold, fungus, and other issues that can damage the plant's roots and stunt its growth.

So what's the sweet spot? Generally speaking, a pot that is just slightly larger than the succulent's root system is ideal. This will give the roots enough room to grow without drowning in excess water.

It's also worth noting that the type of soil you use can play a role in how the size of the pot affects your succulent's growth. A well-draining soil mix can help prevent root rot and other issues.

Conclusion

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When you're picking the right pot for your succulent, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. What kind of roots does the succulent have, do you want to plant several in a single pot and do you want to move them easily? This guide answers those questions and after going through this guide, you'll have a much better idea of which pot is right for you and your plant.

Thank you for reading this post! I hope it helps you to keep your plants healthy and beautiful! If you're looking for more guides on specific plants, you can always request a plant guide to get a guide for the plant you have trouble with.

Tags:pot, soil