10 Plastic Pots for Growing Plants

Plastic pots are a versatile and affordable option for planting both indoors and outdoors When choosing the right plastic pots for your plants, there are a few key factors to consider including size, drainage, material, and more. In this article, we will look at 10 great plastic pot options for growing a variety of plants and outline what to look for when selecting plastic planters

1. Viagrow 10 Gallon Nursery Pots

For large plants or deep-rooted shrubs and trees, the Viagrow 10 Gallon Nursery Pot is a perfect choice. These sizable round pots have a 10 gallon capacity, measuring 14.5 inches tall with a 17 inch diameter The raised rim design allows for easy lifting, moving and stacking With 9 drainage holes in the base, excess water can flow out to prevent soggy soil. The durable injection molded HDPE plastic is reusable, BPA-free and can withstand sun exposure. Get this 2-pack for a cost-effective way to grow small trees, large shrubs or multiple veggie plants.

2. Lechuza Cube Color 14″ Planters

Add a pop of color and sleek style to your patio or porch with Lechuza Cube Color Planters. These geometric plastic pots come in exciting hues like magenta, plum and mandarin. A 14-inch size works nicely for patio tomatoes, ornamental grasses or small shrubs. The cube shape allows plants to be lined up neatly along edges. With porous sub-irrigation slots, plants get watered gradually from the included reservoir base. An integrated handle makes lifting easy while the pon design prevents staining.

3. Gardeners 11″ Azalea Pots

Azaleas, gardenias and other acid-loving plants thrive when planted in azalea pots like these from Gardeners Supply Company The 11-inch size accommodates mature shrubs Made from durable polyethylene plastic, these pots are lightweight yet sturdy. Large drainage slits and ridges along the base promote airflow to roots while allowing excess water to drain. The terra cotta color looks attractive for front steps, patios and other visible locations. The rims interlock for moving or displaying multiple pots together.

4. Novelty Ceramic-Looking Plastic Planters

For a classic garden look without the weight and cost of real ceramic, choose plastic pots modeled after decorative glazed planters. The Pennington Athens Pot has an antique blue and white ceramic appearance but is made from shatter-proof plastic. The 8″ size suits flowers and herbs. Or choose the vibrant Mayfield collection featuring hand-painted detailing on plastic pots shaped like ceramic urns and vases. Use lightweight novely pots like these to elevate gardens with eye-catching colors.

5. Fedco Gallon Nursery Pots

For growing plenty of annuals and vegetables from seed, Gallon Nursery Pots from Fedco Seeds get the job done affordably. These thin 1 gallon plastic growing pots are flexible but durable. Drainage slits prevent overwatering. Use them to start any number of flowers and veggies indoors under lights before transplanting outside after the last frost. Or plant directly into the ground by punching holes in the bottom and digging to fit the pots into soil. Scrunch them to fit bulbs and tubers too.

6. Grower’s Solution Square Pots

The unique square shape of these Grower’s Solution Plastic Pots allows you to efficiently arrange plants side-by-side. Available in larger 5 and 7-gallon capacities, these sturdy square plastic planters can contain substantial shrubs, multi-stem trees or large perennials. The tapered shape promotes deep root growth. Large drainage holes prevent waterlogging. Made in the USA from industrial grade plastic, these square pots will provide seasons of use. They come equipped with rope handles for moving.

7. Behrens Round Galvanized Pails

For a farmhouse, cottage or rustic aesthetic, galvanized steel pails outfitted for planting add vintage flair to gardens. Behrens Round Planter Pails have a 12-quart capacity perfect for medium shrubs or tomato plants. Outfitted with drainage holes and a removable perforated base insert, these pails allow for excellent drainage and airflow. The cylindrical shape and sturdy wire handles make these planters easy to move around. Give your porch, patio or yard a country feel with round galvanized pails.

8. Mr. Stacky Self-Watering Plant Pots

Self-watering planters take the guesswork out of watering by ensuring plants get just the right amount of moisture. Mr. Stacky Self-Watering Pots are a smart pick for reduced maintenance. Fill the base reservoir and plants are watered from the bottom up via a wicking system. Stackable for space savings, these 5″ plastic pots suit herbs, greens and flowers. Use them in sunny windowsills to grow a continuous crop of salad greens or basil that waters itself!

9. Window Boxes from Emsco

Accent windows, railings, patios and entryways with convenient and affordable plastic window boxes from Emsco. Available in versatile white, these window planters have built-in brackets that attach securely to mounts. Sizes range from 22 to 72 inches long, with several widths to choose from. Box-shaped sides keep potting mix contained. Drainage holes prevent waterlogging. Once installed, these plastic window boxes are easy to water and tend. Fill them with colorful annuals or trailing vines.

10. Bushel Basket-Style Planters

For a laidback, country vibe, use plastic pots shaped like traditional bushel baskets. The Pennington Bushel Basket planter sports woven-texture sides and rope handles. A 13-inch diameter allows ample space for small shrubs or tomatoes. Or choose edible strawberry planters like the County Box that let you grow berries right inside the container. The built-in reservoir ensures the plants stay watered. Displaying pretty petunias or bountiful veggies, bushel planters add casual charm.

When selecting plastic pots for indoor or outdoor use, be sure to choose an adequate size, sturdy and stable material, drainage holes and a shape suited to your needs. With the array of stylish plastic planters available today, you can find just the right ones to raise beautiful, thriving container gardens.

What to Look for When Buying Plastic Pots

There are a few important considerations when selecting plastic planters to ensure you choose the right pots for your plants to thrive:

Size – Pick pots that allow adequate room for root development but also match the eventual mature size of the plant. For outdoor pots, larger is typically better.

Drainage – Be sure pots have sufficient drainage holes so soil doesn’t stay soggy. Elevated ribs on the base increase drainage.

Material – Plastic pots range from thin and flexible to thick and sturdy. Match durability to needs. Resins that withstand sun and frost are ideal for outdoor use.

Stability – Choose wide, stable bases for top-heavy plants like trees or large perennials to prevent tipping over.

Shape – Consider the shape and depth best suited to the plant’s needs, like tapered pots for roots or low-spreading pots for vining plants.

Extras – Some plastic pots feature handy extras like attached saucers, self-watering reservoirs and handles or ridges for easy lifting.

Knowing what to look for will help you select the ideal plastic pots for your gardening needs!

Plastic Pot Tips and Ideas

Here are some additional tips for making the most of plastic pots when gardening:

• For proper drainage, place pots up on “feet” or pebbles to prevent sitting directly on surfaces.

• Add pot feet, casters or a rolling plant caddy base to make large pots portable.

• Insert plastic nursery pots inside decorative containers for easier watering and drainage.

• Use square pots to maximize space when arranging multiple pots.

• Interlock or nest plastic pots while starting seeds to conserve space under lights.

• Cluster pots of different heights, shapes and colors for visual interest.

• Elevate tall narrow pots on plant stands for proper visibility and access.

• Fill large plastic grow bags with soil mix for in-ground planting flexibility.

• Use hanging or wall-mounted plastic pots to utilize vertical space.

• Select plastic pots that complement your garden style, whether natural, classic or contemporary.

With the right practices, plastic pots can keep indoor plants and outdoor gardens looking great all season!