One of my favorite things is that super cool patina look that terracotta pots get after a while. Who doesn’t love a good vintage look? But there are actually some real benefits to using terracotta pots over other materials. Today I’m sharing my pros and cons list for using terracotta pots. They are by far my favorite! So let’s talk!
Pros:
Terracotta pots can be found all over our home. I love the natural look of red clay and the patina that they create. The patina is actually mineral deposits that are pulled through the walls of the pots. It’s not harmful and can be left or washed off with soap and water.
- Terracottas porous nature allows for air and water to move through the walls, preventing soil disease and root rot.
- Terracotta pots can be used for indoor plants and outdoor container gardening.
- Terracotta containers are great for Cacti, Succulents, and other plants that prefer drier soil.
- Terracotta is great for colder climates. The walls of the pots draw the water out of the soil to help the soil dry quicker.
- They’re inexpensive!
- They make a beautiful patina that just gets better with age.
Cons:
While I love the color and organic nature of terracotta pots, many people with a more modern style would prefer otherwise. Terracotta will not fit into all design styles.
- Using them outdoors in cold weather can cause them to crack or break.
- Plants that prefer moist conditions may need to be watered more frequently in terracotta.
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Easy to Order Pots on Amazon:
Set of 3 cylindrical terracotta pots
Round fat walled terracotta pots with drainage and saucers
4.5 inch terracotta planter with saucer
Set of 2 succulent planters with legs
Plants:
Below is a list of plants that I house in terracotta pots.
- Snake Plants (Dracaena formerly Sansevieria )
- Aloe Vera
- Monstera species
- Syngoniumspecies
- Peperomiaspecies
- Pilea peperomioides
- Philodendronspecies
- Ficusspecies
- Opuntia cactus
- String of hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
- String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
- Rhipsalis species
- Tradescantia species
Terracotta isn’t the only type of pot I use but it’s definitely my favorite! Since I live in the PNW, terracotta helps me to control the long periods of moisture inside the pot which helps to prevent fungus in the soil and the bugs that come along with that. If you have any questions about terracotta, leave a comment or check out this blog post. Thanks for being here today!
I’ve been getting white residue on a few of my terracotta pots. One even looks like it’s getting thicker, like it’s moldy. Should I get rid of these pots or is this something that sounds normal? Thanks so much!
I’m wondering the same thing. Mine is indoors and the bottom turns completely fuzzy. I’m assuming it’s absorbing the water too much? This was an expensive pot from an artist, so I can’t throw it out! Any advice??
try spraying a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and spring water on to the fuzzy stuff(mold/fungus), or buy copper fungicide, you might be over watering, or you may need a little air circulation via a small fan.
This is normal, just build up from minerals in the water that you use. Doesn’t hurt the plants or people and it is not mold or fungus.
Minerals leeched out of the compost. Normal. The white salts will wash of with water.
hi Sara, I got those white marks on purpose as they have a unique antique look. They add real value and vintage look to my space.
I got my antique jars from https://terrachi.com.pk/olive-jar/
They really look nice in my patio! I am wondering ways on how to make my old terracotta pots with white patina and green look…
This might be what you’re looking for:
https://www.thepaintedhinge.com/2019/02/22/how-to-age-terra-cotta-pots-with-chalk-paint/
Are clay pots good for orchids
Should be. Ochids need air on the roots. They do sell clay orchid pots at Home Depot.
I have a lovely terracotta wall pot; it’s indoors and in a cool place in the house. I would like to put my aloe vera plant in it, but am worried that the pot will leak water onto the floor. Should I line the pot, and what with?
Coffee filters are usually good if you want to line the pot. If you’re worried about it leaking, you can also use a terracotta pot but a plastic sauce beneath, so it doesn’t damage floors/wood/carpet
This may sound like a stupid question, but how many times can you re-use a terracotta pot?
Thanks!
They last LONG TIME. Like, multiple generations can reuse those pots without a problem.
Hi, I have a few terracotta pots without any drainage holes, given the porous nature of the terracotta, are they still good for growing plants despite the lack of a drainage hole?
Dear Sirs:I have 1 snake plant inside the house.And I also have 1 Christmass Cauctis.Both are in clay pots.And I’ve noticed even though they are both in the West side of the house would that be the cause of the fuzziness?
I may be late, but I saw a YT video that explained that if you use tap water in your terracota, then the hard water minerals will build up on the pot over time but more quickly than you’d think. It has a white appearance. Some people like the more rustic old look. Some people prefer a fresh new-looing terracota. Depends on your preference.
I’d you’re not using tap water, then I’m not sure what it could be.