There are two basic types of pots, Clay or Plastic. Either pot
has certain advantages that should be considered when choosing.
Clay Pots are heavy and less likely to tip over, because
of the porousness of the clay water logging is less likely, though
plants will need to be watered more often. The 'natural' appearance
of clay pots appeal to quite a few people and tend to fit in with
all types of decorations. Salts that can damage plant roots are
leached out of the soil by the pot.
Plastic Pots are lighter in weight and less likely to shatter
or chip if they are dropped. Plants need to be watered less often.
The pots come in many decrative colors and styles. No crocking
is needed and they are easy to clean.
The next two items may either be used with or without pots.
Pot Holders are receptacles with no drainage holes and
a waterproof base, used for holding and hiding a single pot. Pot
holders should be around one inch larger than the pot they are
holding. Depending on the type of plant the space between pot
and holder can be either empty (for cacti and succulents) of filled
with damp peat (for most plants). Pot holders should also be large
enough to provide stability for the plant, a rule of thumb is a
spreading plant should be no more than two to five times wider
than the holder.
Containers are about the same thing as pot holders, but
are used for potting one or more plants or for holding several
pots. The only major rule for containers is that they must be
waterproof. Since plants are most often planted directly into
the container a few steps should be taken to prevent water logging.
One way to prevent water logging is to watch closely how much you
water the container and sometimes let it dry out more than usual.
This has the problem of putting the plants into a water stressed
situation which could cause wilting or browning of leaves. Another
method is to bore a small hole into the container and place it
over a drip pan. This will allow extra water to drip into the
pan and evaporate normally.