Flower Pots and Window Planters

Novelty sprouting planters versus real containers

Two kinds of product appear here: novelty sprouting planters, where seed is spread on a figure and kept moist until it sprouts into a green coat, and containers for real plants, such as a raised bed of fir wood listed at 34 by 18 by 30 inches. The novelty kind is decorative and short-lived, so check whether seed is included. For real growing, the raised bed gives roots depth and spares your back, but it needs a level base.

Drainage, depth and materials for real plants

Drainage holes are essential: water that cannot escape rots roots, and a pot without holes should be a cover for a plastic nursery pot. Depth depends on the crop: herbs and lettuce manage in 6 to 8 inches, most vegetables prefer 12 inches or more. Terracotta breathes but dries quickly and can crack in frost, plastic is light, and untreated fir softens with weather, so line or seal it. Window boxes need secure brackets, because wet soil is heavy.

Questions about Flower Pots and Window Planters

Do pots need drainage holes?

Yes for most plants. Without holes, water collects at the bottom and rots roots. A decorative pot without holes can work as a cover, with the plant kept in a plastic nursery pot that has holes inside it.

How deep should a raised bed or planter be?

Herbs and lettuce manage in 6 to 8 inches of soil, most vegetables like 12 inches, and deep-rooted crops such as carrots or tomatoes prefer more. A taller bed also saves bending, so check the listed height.

How do sprouting novelty planters work?

You spread seed over the figure, keep it moist and in good light, and the seed sprouts into a green coat within a couple of weeks. Check the listing for whether seed is included, and water gently to avoid mould.