Containers for planting
- Ting Ting
- Sep 24, 2021
- 2 min read
Transparent or non-transparent pots?
It depends on how the roots of the plants grown operate.
Soil-dwelling plants grow naturally in soil. Their roots seek moisture and darkness, and grow away from light. When planted in transparent pots, light-sensitive roots recoil and slow or stop growing. Light can also dry the soil and damage the tender root tips.
Conclusion: Transparent pots are a 'no-no' for soil-dweller.
Plants that naturally grow without roots have light-seeking roots and do well in clear containers. Epiphytes (air plants) draw water and nutrients from the air through exposed roots, and flourish in clear pots
Conclusion: Transparent pots are okay for epiphytes.
What about for carnivorous plants?
Most carnivorous plant need direct sunlight and moisture to thrive, so it is important to choose a container that will not get too hot under the sun.
Size is critical when choosing the container. Too small and it cannot retain enough moisture. The roots will become bound. Too large and the plant will use all its energy in root development. They will not have enough energy to grow. Height is also essential. Select a container that is about one-third the height of the carnivorous plant.
Pros and Cons of Different Pot Types
Terra-Cotta pots
Pros: It can breath. This helps it to keep the soil in the container fresh. It also wicks away excess moisture from the root of the plants and keeps them healthy.
Cons: it is relatively fragile and dries out water very rapidly under the hot sun.
Plastic
Pros: It is cheap and retains moisture very well.
Cons:Dark or black colored plastic pots can get very hot under the sun, and can damage the roots.
Concrete
Pros: It retains water. It has insulating properties, and protects the tender root systems.
Cons:It is heavy and not easy to move.
Comments