The last step in choosing the right garden container is to select the material that best suits your plant and the growing conditions. Pots for plants come in a variety of materials. Choose based on the descriptions below, and make sure the pot has drainage holes.

Terracotta:

A traditional favorite. Small sizes are affordable, but larger and ornate styles can be priceyand often quite heavy to carry. Tends to dry out quickly, which makes it ideal as an indoor pot for drought-loving plants and Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme. Glazed terracotta doesn't dry out as fast. Freezing temps can crack or weaken terracotta when used outdoors. Best stored empty through winter in cold regions.

Plastic:

Lightweight, durable, and affordable. Bright colors add zing to any setting, or select traditional terracotta tones. With outdoor pots, direct sun heats black plastic, which can harm roots in hot climates. Also consider alternative plastic containers, like tubs, bins or buckets. These work well both indoors and out.

Wood:

Offers a natural look that blends well into garden settings. Wood is durable and weather-resistant, although it does break down over time. Half-barrel wooden containers are quite heavy once filled with soil, so put them in place beforehand. Wooden containers are best for outdoors.

Glazed Ceramic:

Strong and durable, these pots often boast beautiful colors. They can be pricey, though, and don't stand up well to freezing temps. Perfect for indoors.

Concrete:

Tops in durability, though these containers commands a high price. Extremely heavy. Best used outdoors.

Learn more about container gardening by checking out the article below. For more details about Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix, to purchase the product online, or to find a retailer near you, click on the product link below.

Written by Julie Martens Forney