You found the perfect plant. It’s leafy, fresh, and ready to liven up your space. But before you plop it into the first pot you find, pause.

The right planter is more than just a pretty container. It affects your plant’s health, growth, and how well it fits into your space. From size and material to drainage and style, there’s more to it than meets the eye.

Here’s your ultimate guide to choosing the right planter—so your plant doesn’t just survive, but thrives.

1. Start with the Plant’s Needs

Every plant is different. Some love room to grow, while others prefer being cozy. Some like dry feet, and others want consistently moist soil.

Questions to ask:

• Does it have deep roots or shallow ones?

• Does it like dry, airy soil (like succulents)?

• Does it need good drainage or frequent watering?

Understanding your plant’s personality will help you pick a pot that supports its health and makes your life as a plant parent easier.

 2. Size Matters (A Lot More Than You Think)

Your planter should be just slightly larger than your plant’s current root ball—typically 1–2 inches wider for small plants, and 2–4 inches for larger ones.

Too Small?

Roots will become cramped, causing stunted growth and water stress.

Too Large?

Soil retains too much moisture, leading to root rot.

Pro Tip:
If you’re repotting, go up one size at a time, not three. Slow and steady wins the race.

3. Drainage: The Unsung Hero

If your planter doesn’t have a drainage hole, your plant’s roots could be sitting in soggy soil—aka, a slow death by rot.

Options:

• With Drainage Hole: Ideal for beginners and most plants.

• Without Drainage Hole: Okay if you use it as a cachepot (a decorative outer pot) and place the plant in a plastic nursery pot inside.

At The Pot Dealer, many of our ceramic planters come with drainage, or can be paired with a saucer for worry-free watering.

4. Material Makes a Difference

The material of your planter affects both style and plant health. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Terracotta:

• Porous and breathable

• Great for succulents and cacti

• Dries out faster (ideal for plants that hate wet roots)

Ceramic (Glazed):

• Stylish and colorful

• Retains moisture longer

• Works well for tropical or humidity-loving plants

Plastic:

• Lightweight and budget-friendly

• Holds moisture

• Best for moisture-loving plants or low-light conditions

Metal or Cement:

• Trendy and modern

• May heat up in sunlight

• Often used as cachepots or decorative outer layers

Choose based on both aesthetics and your plant’s water needs. Dry-soil lovers = terracotta. Moist-soil lovers = ceramic or plastic.

5. Shape + Depth = Functionality

Yes, planter shape matters too—especially the depth and width.

Shallow Planters:

• Great for succulents or herbs with short roots

Deep Planters:

• Needed for plants with long taproots like fiddle leaf figs or rubber plants

Tall planters are ideal for cascading plants like pothos, while wide bowls can be stunning for grouped succulents.

6. Match Your Pot to Your Style (And Your Plant’s Personality)

Your planter is part of your decor. Whether it’s modern minimal, boho chic, or quirky and bold, pick a planter that brings out the best in your plant—and your personality.

Aesthetic Tips:

• Pair a face planter with a trailing plant for “hair”

• Use bold colors to contrast green foliage

• Group small pots of different shapes in the same color family

And hey—if you’re gifting a plant, choose a pot that reflects the recipient’s vibe!

7. Plan Ahead for Growth and Repotting

Plants grow. That cute baby pothos won’t stay tiny forever.

Planter Tips for Growth:

• Use nursery pots inside decorative planters to allow easy switching

• Pick planters with a wide opening for easy repotting

• Keep an eye out for roots growing through drainage holes—that’s your sign to size up

At The Pot Dealer, we offer planters in multiple sizes and shapes so you can scale as your plant family grows.

Final Checklist: Your Perfect Planter

Before buying, make sure your planter checks all the boxes:

✔️ Right size for your plant’s roots
✔️ Proper drainage or a way to manage it
✔️ Matches your plant’s water needs
✔️ Fits your decor and space
✔️ Easy to handle (lightweight or with a saucer)

Ready to Pot Like a Pro?

Choosing the right planter is both an art and a science, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our curated collection at The Pot Dealer makes it easy to find pots that are as unique as your plant babies.

Whether you’re into minimalist neutrals or bold face pots that make a statement, we’ve got something that fits your style—and your plant’s needs.