Savon This post shows you the best plants to grow in terracotta pots!
I’ve always loved the idea of container gardening.
When I was struggling with my mental health, it was much easier to start with a plant in a pot than a plot of land.
Container gardening is also more accessible for kids and people with disabilities.
But here’s the catch.
I didn’t realize that the type of pot matters! I thought they were just different aesthetics. How embarrassing!
One of the biggest killers of houseplants is overwatering. I thought I was doing my plants a favor with a routine watering schedule, but in reality, I was giving them soggy feet and slowly killing them.
That is until I switched to terracotta pots.
My plant collection is now a variety of pots and containers, not because of aesthetics, but because of the conditions and requirements for each plant.
In this post, I’m sharing the best plants to grow in terracotta pots to get you started!
Why Grow Plants in Terracotta Pots
Not every type of plant will thrive in every type of pot.
Terracotta is used for more drought-tolerant plants that do not need a lot of water. Clay is porous and does not hold moisture.
If you want an upgrade from the typical plastic pots that wear after a couple of seasons, terracotta is a smart choice.
And you can usually find them secondhand pretty easily for a decent price.
With the heat in Florida, container gardening is a balancing act and you will just have to learn your plant’s love language over time.
I usually try to stick to drought-tolerant or native plants outdoors and houseplants indoors when using terracotta.
Here are some more reasons to invest in terracotta pots:
- Perfect for beginners. If you’re a beginner with houseplants, terracotta is ideal for the most low-maintenance and easiest plants to take care of.
- It’s a nice aesthetic. If you like a natural theme or uniform pots, terracotta is a nice color that blends well with decor. It’s classic!
- Helps with overwatering. Overwatering is the #1 killer of plants. Terracotta is porous and can help keep your watering in check over time.
10 Best Plants to Grow in Terracotta Pots
Terracotta is ideal for plants that like to dry out completely between waterings.
Here are the best options for growing plants in these clay-baked pots!
1 Cacti
Cacti is a beautiful starter plant for a terracotta pot. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they have beautiful flowers and intricate geometric growth patterns. It’s a drought-tolerant plant that loves to bask in the sun.
They are so humble and don’t ask for much, flourishing in the most harsh conditions. We truly don’t give them enough credit.
Care tips:
- Start cacti off in a sandy well-draining mix for the best environment.
- Give lots of sun to keep happy with infrequent deep waterings!
3 Jade (Crassula ovata)
I feel like succulents are like the “cool girl” version of plants. You can’t go wrong with a succulent, she always has a unique look to her and adds a good vibe to any collection she’s introduced to.
They’re small and low-maintenance but have helped improve my mental health.
Here’s how to care for them!
- These plants hold water more than most, hence their full and fleshy leaves so don’t keep them outside if in a rainy climate.
- Place these in the sunniest spot of your apartment and let them do their thing!
You may also like:
15 Succulent Arrangement Ideas for Indoor Spaces That Are Absolutely Beautiful
4 Piliea
This is such a beautiful plant with perfect-shaped round leaves attached to linear stems that grow in all directions. It’s a statement piece to add to your collection!
How to Care:
- Give them a lot of light (preferably a south-facing window) or they will quickly get leggy and unattractive!
- Water maximum once a week.
5 Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Did you know the snake plant is a natural air purifier? The leaves can absorb a variety of toxins in your home. This plant is surprisingly forgiving towards forgetful waterings.
These are simple, stylish, classic plants that look amazing against midcentury decor.
Plant Care Tips:
Fully let the soil dry out between waterings.
6 Hoya
I love touching the leaves of hoya plants for their wax-like, almost unreal textures.
I’m also obsessed with the endless varigated patterns in each leaf. Everything about them is wild but they are one of the hardiest plants to grow.
7 Bromeliade
I received a bromeliade plant as a gift from work and it’s made my day-to-day more enjoyable. The colors are gorgeous and vibrant.
This tropical plant is easy to care for and will uplift any mood.
How to Care:
- Mist the plant regularly to keep the center moist without causing root rot.
- Repot the plantlets known as “pups” for brand new plants!
8 Orchid
This plant gives off an amazing beauty and is incredibly resilient.
It’s no wonder it’s a classic plant gift on Mother’s Day! There are plenty of varieties to bring into your space.
How to Care:
- Maintain a consistent watering schedule
- Plant orchids in a well-draining medium that is neither soil or potting mix!
9 Philo (Philodendron)
I think we can all agree that philodendrons are the #1 beloved house plant of all time. And for good reason, considering the vines, it’s a natural air purifier, and adaptive to indoor spaces.
It really adds comfort to my space seeing the trailing vines from a shelf or bookcase.
How to Care:
- Place in a spot with plenty of bright light
10 Herbs (Rosemary, Sage, Lavender)
Herbs are plants that thrive off neglect. They are used to a Mediterranean climate and will produce plenty of flavor and aroma if you just let them be independent with very little watering.
How to Care:
Go for drought-tolerant herbs like rosemary, lavender, thyme, and oregano.
Water sparingly with a mist bottle to encourage a full batch all season!
You may also like:
The Best Herbs to Grow Indoors and Make Them Last Forever
This Post Has Shown You the 10 Best Plants to Grow in Terracotta Pots
If you have a problem with overwatering your plants, try switching it out for a terracotta pot!
Start your plant off in the right environment and they will return the love!
You may also like:
The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Pots and Containers
27 Tiny Plant Pot Ideas That Look Amazing in Any Space
How to Propagate a Succulent Leaf So You Never Have to Buy One Again!
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