Categories: Gardening

These Plants Won’t Thrive In Terracotta Pots, So Here Are Some Alternative Containers To Help Them Flourish

by
Katharina Buczek

Blooming Plants That Have Specific pH Requirements

When it comes to blooming plants, some have distinct pH needs that can be negatively impacted by potting material.

With terracotta, minerals such as lime may leach from the pot and actually make the soil more alkaline as time goes on.

This can impact plants that favor either neutral or acidic soil, resulting in obstructed nutrient absorption that leads to deficiencies or poor growth.

Some of these blooming plants include blue hydrangeas, azaleas, and hibiscus. Glazed or plastic pots are best for these beauties to ensure pH balance is controlled.

Plants That Need High Humidity

Terracotta pots have moisture-wicking properties that can cause certain plants to struggle, particularly those that like high humidity around their roots.

Orchids and bromeliads are just two examples. Orchids thrive in consistently moist conditions. Yet, soil can become bone dry due to evaporation from the pot’s sides.

Bromeliads need high humidity as well, as they are naturally grown in humid rainforests. The porous nature of terracotta pots can make preserving constant moisture and humidity levels a challenge.

For these varieties, fiberglass or plastic pots are stellar planter options that more evenly retain moisture.

Topical Plants

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Published by
Katharina Buczek

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