Let’s rewind to 2018. I bought my first succulent—a cute little echeveria—and plopped it into a vintage teacup I found at a thrift store. “How hard could it be?” I thought. Fast-forward two weeks: my succulent was a mushy, overwatered mess. Turns out, that adorable teacup was a death sentence.
Since then, I’ve killed more succulents than I’d like to admit (RIP, Fred), but I’ve also learned that the right pot is just as important as the right plant. Whether you’re a succulent newbie or a seasoned plant parent, these 6 tips will help you avoid my mistakes and keep your plants thriving.
1. Drainage Holes Are Non-Negotiable
Repeat after me: No drainage, no succulents. Those Pinterest-worthy pots without holes? They’re like forcing your plant to live in a bathtub with no drain. Succulents hate wet feet, and without drainage, water pools at the bottom, leading to root rot. Trust me, Fred’s teacup taught me this the hard way.
What to Do:
- Use pots with drainage holes (terracotta pots are my go-to).
- No holes? DIY it: Drill one yourself or nest a nursery pot inside a decorative container.
- Layer the bottom with gravel or lava rocks for extra insurance.
Pro Tip: I’ve repurposed old coffee mugs by drilling holes in them—just go slow and use a ceramic drill bit!
2. Size Matters: Go Small & Shallow
Succulents have tiny root systems, so a giant pot is like renting a mansion for a hamster. Too much soil holds onto moisture, which drowns the roots. My haworthia thrived when I moved it from a deep pot to a shallow bonsai dish.
The Goldilocks Rule:
- Width: Choose a pot 1-2 inches wider than the plant’s rosette.
- Depth: Opt for pots 3-4 inches deep for most succulents.
- Exceptions: Tall succulents like snake plants need deeper pots.
Fun Fact: I once planted a 2-inch sempervivum in a cereal bowl. It’s still alive three years later!
3. Material Matters: Terracotta vs. Ceramic vs. Glazed
Not all pots are created equal. Terracotta is the MVP for beginners, while glazed ceramic is like the high-maintenance friend who needs extra attention.
Breakdown:
- Terracotta:
- Pros: Breathable, prevents overwatering, affordable.
- Cons: Dries out faster (great for overwaterers like me!).
- Ceramic/Glazed:
- Pros: Stylish, retains moisture longer.
- Cons: Risk of overwatering—pair with gritty soil.
- Concrete/Metal:
- Pros: Trendy and durable.
- Cons: Heavy and can get too hot in direct sun.
My Hack: Use terracotta for fussy succulents and save ceramic pots for drought-tolerant cacti.
4. Match the Pot to Your Plant’s Personality
Succulents come in all shapes and styles, so their pots should too! A spiky aloe in a sleek geometric pot? Chef’s kiss. A trailing string of pearls in a hanging planter? Yes, please.
Style Guide:
- Minimalist: White ceramic or concrete pots for modern vibes.
- Boho: Macramé hangers or painted terracotta.
- Whimsical: Animal-shaped pots or quirky thrift finds (just add drainage!).
Story Time: I planted a chubby “Hobbit” jade plant in a Lord of the Rings-themed mug. Nerdiest (and coolest) pot ever.
5. Consider Your Climate
Living in humid Florida? Your pot needs will differ from someone in dry Arizona.
Climate Tips:
- Humid Areas: Use porous terracotta to wick away moisture.
- Dry Climates: Glazed pots help retain water longer.
- Indoors vs. Outdoors: Outdoor pots need weather-resistant materials (no cheap plastic!).
My Mistake: I left a ceramic pot outside during a freeze—it cracked faster than my patience on a Monday morning.
6. Don’t Forget the Fun Factor
Your pot should make you smile every time you see it. I have a taco-shaped pot for my “Burro’s Tail” and a vintage Star Wars lunchbox for a mini cactus collection.
Ideas to Spark Joy:
- Thrift Store Treasures: Teapots, colanders, or retro tins (add drainage!).
- DIY Pots: Paint plain pots with acrylics or decoupage.
- Themed Collections: Group succulents in matching pots for a cohesive look.
Confession: I’ve bought pots solely because they matched my couch. No regrets.
Final Thoughts: Happy Pots = Happy Plants
Choosing the right pot isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about giving your succulents a home where they can thrive. Start with drainage and size, then let your personality shine with fun designs. And if you mess up? Welcome to the club. My “graveyard” of dead plants taught me more than any guide ever could.
Now it’s your turn! Tag me on Instagram with your quirkiest succulent pot—I’m always hunting for new ideas.
