Choosing the best pot for your indoor plant

Reviving your space with indoor plants is a game-changer, not just visually but for your indoor air quality too. Whether you're into the real deal or prefer everlasting artificial plants, the key lies in selecting the right plant pots that suits the size and personality of your plants. We’ve answered some frequently asked questions below so you can make the most of your indoor garden.

What is the difference between a pot and a planter?

Generally, the terms plant pot and planter can be used interchangeably when referring to a container that holds plants. Plant pots can range in size from extra small to extra large, are usually rounded or square and are designed to be potted with one plant. Planters are often larger, sometimes rectangular, and are planted with multiple plants. Depending on what they’re made out of, planters are usually designed for outdoor use.

Dalloway Green Plant Pot

Dalloway Yellow Plant Pot

What material is best for indoor plant pots?

Because they’re not subjected to outdoor conditions, indoor plant pots can be made of many different materials, including ceramic, terracotta, metal, rattan, fibreglass, concrete and plastic. This means that you can easily find a plant pot to match your existing interior style, without having to consider harsh changes in weather.

Plastic-lined storage baskets are great for larger plants and small indoor trees. These can be placed on the floor with no risk of cracking, making them a practical choice for families with young children.

Ceramic Plant Pots

Is it okay to use a pot without a drainage hole?

It is not necessary for indoor plant pots to have drainage holes. Designed for indoor use, our standing pots and plant pots with stands do not have drainage holes, instead we recommend that you keep the plant in a plastic pot inside the decorative pot. Make sure there’s room around the edges - this will make it easier to lift the plant out before or after it’s been watered to drain the excess liquid.

Take care when watering. Most plants don’t like to sit in water as it rots their roots. To avoid this, you can either line the bottom of the plastic pot with rocks to allow drainage, or if you’re a more hands-off plant parent, try using a small watering can or watering globe to drip feed your plant when it needs hydration.

What size plant pot do I need?

Generally, your plant pot should be roughly 1-2cm wider in diameter than the plastic grow pot your plant is planted in. Our plant pots have the internal diameter on the product page, as well as the external measurements. Measure the diameter (width) of your grow pot to make sure it will fit comfortably inside.

Watch out for tapered plant pots, as these might not be wide enough for your plant to sit at the bottom. Add some gravel to lift your plant to the correct height. For larger or taller plants, you can afford to choose a slightly larger design as this won’t look out of proportion with the plant. For smaller plants, it’s best to stick to the rule above to avoid the pot overpowering the plant.

Plant Pots

How do you know when you need a bigger pot?

A well looked after plant will most likely grow, sprouting new leaves and forming a bigger root system. If you suspect your plant has outgrown its pot, check to see if it has become root bound. Re-pot the plant if you can see roots growing through the holes in the plastic pot. You can also check by gently removing the plant from the pot (give it a little squeeze in the middle to release it) and looking at the soil. It will need to be repotted if its roots are clearly visible, and look constricted and tangled.

Keep this in mind when you’re selecting a decorative plant pot. Choose a style that will easily fit the plant’s plastic pot inside, with room for an even larger plastic pot if it grows. If you want to avoid the hassle, choose an artificial plant instead.

Daisy Green Plant Pot

Should you have a plant pot stand?

A plant pot stand can keep your plants on show without the need for a shelf or table to display the pot on, ideal if you’re short on space or you want to perk up an awkward corner. When choosing the plant, think about where the plant pot and stand will be displayed. If it’s being kept on the floor, opt for a plant with upright stems, as anything with too much droopy foliage is likely to get in the way.

Metal Triple Plant Stand

What to plant in a hanging plant pot

Hanging planters are perfect for homes of every size, but they’re especially good for small spaces or homes without gardens or balconies. They help to create an indoor jungle vibe inside, without taking up valuable space on the floor, tables or shelves.

There are many different types of plants that look great in a hanging plant pot. Choose anything from bushy ferns and grasses to plants with airy, trailing, tendril-like leaves. For a low-maintenance option, our Hanging Grass Artificial Plant gives the appearance of a real plant, without having to water it.

Artificial Plants

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