What are the best pots for succulents?

It is a recurring question among lovers of these plants. And it is that, as secondary as it may seem, knowing which are the best pots for succulents is essential. Far from being just a container, we are talking about the place where our plants grow. The place where they tend their roots, find the nutrients they need and even have systems to regulate their irrigation. No: carefully choosing pots for succulents is not a minor fact. But not because these plants are demanding. Actually, choosing between the different types of existing pots for any type of plants is necessary if we take care of their well-being.

But let’s go back to the pots for succulents, which are what we are dealing with today. Because we will not only have to contemplate an aspect that helps us in its cultivation but, in reality, several. In general, succulents have a very small root system. Something that must be taken into account when knowing which is the best container to plant them.

For this reason and to help you enjoy your plants more, it is time to get to know the pots for succulents in depth. Or, rather, some recommendations to choose them correctly.

ASPECTS TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT WHEN CHOOSING POTS FOR SUCCULENTS

Before going into details about pots for succulents, a subsection. Regardless of which one we choose, there is one aspect that we must be very clear about: drainage. A vital factor for the development of plants that are highly susceptible to excess water. Hence, in addition to knowing how to water succulents correctly, it is essential that we create a good water evacuation system for our plants. And, although we believe that it has nothing to do with pots for succulents, it is closely related. Sometimes we grow succulents in super attractive containers which, however, are not the best growing space for this reason.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Let’s discover, point by point, what we must consider to choose pots for cacti and succulents correctly.

The material, key in pots for succulents

It is probably the most important point when choosing pots for succulents. And it is that, far from being unimportant, the material of the pots can play for or against the cultivation of the plant itself. Not only can it hinder drainage: it can even overheat the roots of our plants.

So there is nothing like knowing the strengths and weaknesses of each type of material. Or, put another way, what materials are most interesting for growing our succulents.

1. Mud, the ideal material for pots for succulents

Probably the best potting material for succulents. It is no coincidence that clay pots are the most used in gardening. And it is that this type of material has a good number of advantages when it comes to caring for our plants. Thanks to its porosity, it is extremely passable. A detail that not only favors the elimination of excess irrigation water but also helps the roots to stay fresh.

As drawback: its weight. Something that makes them less manageable.

2. Cement, a modern alternative to the classic clay

It is precisely what it is. Because, like mud, it is a breathable material. And it is not only similar in terms of porosity: also in how it behaves in terms of moisture removal and freshness of the roots.

3. Glass, very decorative but not very useful as pots for succulents

It is a highly decorative practice that, however, can be harmful to our plants. And it is logical: glass pots do not usually have drainage holes. It is true that, aesthetically, they are the most beautiful. But, if we opt for them, we must take certain precautions. To begin with, create a good underdrain layer. And, to continue, we will have to be even more careful with irrigation.

4. Plastic, the antithesis of clay pots

Plastic pots have the opposite virtues of clay pots. On the one hand, we are talking about a material that is not breathable, so we will not be able to count on its help to evacuate the excess irrigation water. In addition, they have another drawback in the hot months. Since the plastic stores the heat, the temperature of the roots will also increase.

5. Metal, a temporary pot for succulents

Metal pots are also extremely eye-catching but, like glass pots, they usually don’t have drainage. Another aspect to consider is that metal retains heat, so it can also be harmful to the roots of our succulents. And finally, something important: with watering, the metal rusts. An aspect that can also be negative for the development of our succulents.

The diameter of the pots, another fundamental aspect

Another important aspect when choosing pots for succulents, especially when it is common for us to buy them in small pots. Make no mistake: a young plant can live in a small container. But only a plant with a good diameter will be able to grow in conditions.

The reason is simple, and it is important to know it. Succulent plants tend to spread their roots in a circular fashion. Therefore, the more space they have, the greater their growth will be.

Height, the last fundamental point when choosing pots for succulents

Yes, succulents tend to have few and circular roots. And come to think of it, height shouldn’t be important to these plants. However, let’s not generalize because it is not an absolute truth that can be extended to all. Actually, columnar succulent plants that due to their development grow in an interesting way vertically need pots for succulents of good height. Only then will the roots be able to properly support the development of the plant.

But it is not the only reason. In addition, well-growing plants need a larger amount of substrate. And not only for holding them but also for having the amount of nutrients they demand for their growth.

And now that you know which are the best pots for succulents, tell us: how do you have them planted?