Choosing The Right Container

Size

It is important to choose a container that will give your indoor plants plenty of room to grow and small enough that the plant will not put all its energy into expanding its root system to fill the available space. For example, when transplanting a four inch potted plant into a new pot, the new pot should be no more than two to four inches larger. When transplanting a twelve inch potted plant, the new pot should be no more than four to six inches larger. When you grow your indoor plants from very young plants, you may need to transplant three or four times before the plant reaches its mature size.

Drainage

All plant containers should contain drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Plants that are not allowed proper drainage will suffer from oxygen deprivation and the diseases that can affect roots when they are kept too wet. Clay and pottery pots are excellent containers for indoor plants because the pots absorb some moisture; however plastic containers also work very well. Whatever material the container is made from, it must have proper drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.

If the container you have chosen does not have drainage holes, drill or cut several holes about the size of a pencil into the bottom of the pot to allow excess water to drain. Space the drainage holes evenly all around the bottom of the pot to allow for even drainage.

It is best to purchase a large saucer with your plant pot. This will allow you to water your plants from the bottom, if you choose, and will also keep freshly watered plants from dripping on to furniture and floors.