The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Pot for Your Succulents

Choosing a pot for your succulent might seem simple, but the right choice can make a huge difference in the health and happiness of your plant. A pot that looks great but doesn't have the right features can lead to a quick demise. Here’s everything you need to know to pick the perfect home for your succulent.

1. The Golden Rule: Drainage Holes are a Must

If there's one thing you take away from this guide, it's this: always choose a pot with a drainage hole.

Succulents are adapted to arid climates. They don't like to sit in soggy soil. A drainage hole allows excess water to escape, preventing the roots from rotting.

• Avoid pots without a hole. If you have a beautiful pot that doesn't have a drainage hole, you can either drill one yourself or use it as a "cachepot" (a decorative outer pot) for a smaller plant that is in a pot with a drainage hole.

2. Choose the Right Material

The material of your pot plays a big role in how well your succulent will thrive.

• Terracotta (Clay): The Best Choice

  

  
  

  • Pros: Terracotta is porous, meaning it absorbs moisture from the soil and allows it to evaporate. This helps the soil dry out faster, which is exactly what succulents need. It's also heavy, which provides stability for taller plants.

  • Cons: The porous nature can cause the soil to dry out a bit too quickly in very hot climates, requiring more frequent watering.

    
    

• Ceramic & Glazed Pots: A Good Alternative

  

  • Pros: These pots are beautiful and come in endless designs and colors. The glaze makes them non-porous, which means they hold moisture longer.

  • Cons: Because they hold moisture, you must be extra careful with watering. Make sure the drainage hole is large and the soil mix is very gritty to prevent root rot.

    
    

• Plastic Pots: Good for Beginners

  

  • Pros: They are inexpensive, lightweight, and come with drainage holes. They are a good temporary home for a new plant.

  • Cons: Plastic doesn't breathe, so the soil stays wet for a longer time. They can also be unstable and tip over easily.

3. Consider the Size

The size of the pot is also crucial.

• Don't over-pot. A pot that is too large holds an excessive amount of soil, which in turn holds too much moisture. The excess soil will stay wet for too long, putting your plant at a high risk of root rot.

• The right size. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is 10% wider than the succulent's rosette. This gives the plant a little room to grow but keeps the soil-to-plant ratio balanced.

  
  

By following these simple rules, you can choose a pot that not only looks great but also helps your succulent stay happy and healthy for years to come.