If you have been following along, then by now you will know about the benefits of introducing nature within your home and which plants are best suited for each space. Plants are beautiful but they are completed with the right pot. There are endless choices when it comes to choosing your perfect pot and it might be surprising to learn that some planters significantly impact the environment more than others. We need to take into consideration manufacturing, what materials are used and how they drain our natural resources to where do the pots end up? Most likely landfill. Being a conscious consumer is important to us, so we have done the research and listed below the most common planters and weighed up which types are best along with some suggested suppliers.
plastic pots
Plastic of course damages our environment, yet it is also a very useful and practical material, especially in gardening. Plastic planters are cheap and lightweight, they heat and cool quickly so plant microorganisms are not damaged as easily when in the sun. They are also very effective at keeping the moisture in but not storing any unused water (unlike terracotta & ceramics) helping to avoid root rot or over watering. If a plastic pot is the best option for your situation, then we would always recommend reusing what already exists, check out gumtree or call your local nursery, there will be hundreds to choose from. If you are after something a bit more specific and stylish then choose a plastic pot that is made from recycled materials. Eco Pots, available in the UK and Aus, are made from recycled PET bottles, shock and shatter proof, easily movable and outstanding resistance against UV light and frost.
ceramic pots
We love the look of ceramic pots, they suit almost any style of home with an infinite number of different styles and finishes. They are of course very heavy to move and often have inadequate drainage for most species of plants … good luck trying to drill an additional hole!
Try and choose a glazed ceramic pot as they tend to be waterproof so hold moisture better. If you live in a colder climate, then ceramic pots may not be the best option as they are prone to cracking as the soil freezes and expands.
Handmade ceramic planters may come at a slightly higher price, however unique pieces are generally more cherished and valued meaning it won’t end up on the curb side in a year’s time.… making it economically and environmentally more friendly. There are plenty of ceramic pots out there, below we have listed some more unusual and quirky ones.
AUS Suppliers
Pot 01
Pot 02
Pot 03
concrete pots
Generally speaking we try and steer away from concrete pots, there are a number of environmental issues associated with concrete products, with the cement industry being one of the top two producers of CO2. Whilst concrete is a good insulator and therefore suits areas that have severe fluctuations in temperature it is also high in lime which is toxic to many plants. If you have already bought a concrete planter then, prior to use, water the pot thoroughly or sit it outdoors for a couple of weeks in the rain so that the lime can leach out before planting.
