Understand drainage, container size and materials when choosing pots for herbs, vegetables and ornamentals.
Pot choice is boringly important. The right pot can make an otherwise tricky plant easy. The wrong pot can make even common plants suffer.
Clay breathes, plastic holds
Terracotta dries out fastest — good for succulents and herbs. Plastic retains moisture — good for vegetables that like a steady level.
Size up slowly
Too big a pot means wet soil around the roots, which means root rot. Move up one size when you see roots circling the bottom.
Drainage is non-negotiable
Holes are not optional. Add a small piece of mesh over each hole so soil does not wash out.
Saucers need draining too
Standing water in a saucer is the same as over-watering. Empty it after watering every time.