If you have a preference for terracotta planters, it’s important to know how to take care of these versatile planters. While they are designed to last for a long time, the proper care ensures they last for as long as possible and continue to possess the beauty they were designed with. The following tips can help you take good care of your planters.
Presoak
Many people are used to simply using their planters straight off the store shelves. However, when you choose terracotta planters for your planting, it’s best to presoak them before use. This should also be done when you plant something new in your pot. In order to keep the terracotta material from absorbing the water from the soil, soak it in clean water for 24 hours. This will ensure the pores of the planter are full and your plant gets the water it needs.
Winterize
Once the planting season is over, it’s critical to safely store your terracotta planters through the winter so they are ready to use again in the spring. Empty all of the dirt and carefully brush out any remaining soil from inside. You should then clean the pot fully using a water and bleach solution made of one part bleach and 10 parts water. White vinegar is another excellent option. Once the pots have fully dried, store them in your shed or garage. Place them upside down without stacking them. If you must stack them due to space constraints, use an old towel in between each one to keep them from sticking together.
Prevent Cracks
Once your terracotta planters crack, there’s nothing you can do to fix them. This is why it’s important to learn how to prevent cracking. The most obvious solution is to avoid dropping or jostling them too much. You can also prevent cracks by not overfilling the pot and selecting one large enough for your plant’s root system as it grows. Proper storage in the winter also protects against cracking.