Containers for Gardens

8 Main Types of Container Pots

Depending on what qualities you are looking for will help determine what type would work best for you and your plant(s).

1) Clay or Terracotta 

These can look very nice and classy.  They aren't too heavy which makes them moving inside to protect from harsh weather easier.  Because they are porous, they are fragile and acceptable to cracking from extreme weather and unable to take sudden impact.  This type does have the widest range of size starting from 2 inch diameter to however large you can need.  The color range goes from warm reds to browns.  These tend to be an affordable option.

2) Cement or Stone

They are treated to look beautiful by glazing and/or hand painted.  These are heavy and not practical to move around.  Works well for outside and able to withstand the weather.  These pots are able to protect the roots from large temperature changes.  

3) Ceramic

Start off as a light color clay and then they are glazed.  These are less porous than clay but are still susceptible for cracking in the cold winter.  They are heavy and expensive.

4) Plastic

Tend to be thin and flexible.  This material can be manipulated to imitate other materials but it does look fake.  However, with the thinner walls, it has less insulation to protect the roots from temperature change.  Nice and light to move around.  Can be made of any color or design.  The color does tend to fade and chip away over time.  A very popular choice because the price range is very affordable yet less durable.

5) Fiberglass, Resin

Fiberglass is a blend of resin and glass fiber.  Can also mimic other materials but is more sturdier than the plastic version.  This type is lightweight and does well with a range of weather conditions.  The price is rather affordable.

6) Coir

A biodegradable choice.  Mostly known as made with coconut husk but can also be made with other grain husks with binding agents.  These have benefits of paper pods only much sturdier.  The size goes up to about a foot in diameter. This is an inexpensive option.

7) Wood

The shape of the pots tend to be square or rectangle.  Nice and durable for the weather.  Less likely to crack or dry out.  However, because of the material being of a natural resource like wood is, it does have a tendency to rot.  So be sure to line the inside with a plastic or glaze it.

8) Metal 

Aluminum is light and able to get dings, whereas iron is much heavier and will hold it's shape without fail.  There are also other types such as copper coated, stainless steal, zinc, and lead to name a few.