Essential tips for Caring & Maintaining your Pots.
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Good pot care extends lifespan, prevents pests and fungi, and keeps plants healthier: regular cleaning, true drainage, and timely repotting are the foundation. Tailor routines to material (terracotta, ceramic, resin) to avoid damage, stains, and dull finishes.
Cleaning by material
• Terracotta/clay: remove soil, brush, treat white scale with vinegar solution (1:4), rinse, and air‑dry 48 h; avoid metal brushes and thermal shock.
• Glazed ceramic: soft cloth with mild soap or gentle water‑vinegar mix; skip abrasives and high‑pressure washers to protect the glaze.
• Fiberglass/resin: sponge and neutral soap; avoid harsh chemicals and scratchy tools to preserve finish.
Sanitation and prevention
• Between uses or after diseased plants, disinfect: brief 1:9 bleach soak after cleaning, then rinse thoroughly; dry completely before reuse.
• Clear drainage holes with a brush or wire to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Drainage and mix
• Choose pots with holes and empty saucers; standing water promotes root rot.
• Aerated mixes with perlite/pumice/bark improve oxygenation and reduce compaction; match to species (aroids vs. succulents).
• Skip “drainage layers” that raise the perched water table; use a free‑draining substrate from the bottom up.
Low‑stress repotting
• Signs: roots circling or exiting holes, compacted mix, water running straight through.
• Steps: pre‑hydrate 1–2 days before, tease roots, add fresh mix, center at same depth; water thoroughly and avoid direct sun immediately after .
• Cadence: check yearly or bi‑yearly; for slow growers, refresh the top layer instead.
Stains and salts
• White crust from minerals/fertilizer: vinegar soak, gentle scrub, rinse; clean saucers and rims too.
• Algae/mildew on terracotta: baking soda paste after cleaning, plus full sun dry.
Storage and climate
• In winter, cluster containers or move them to sheltered spots; raise outdoor pots with feet/risers for better drainage.
• Fully dry before storage to prevent mold and odors; store clean saucers and lids together to speed seasonal swaps.