Pots

Pots and planters on this page range from decorative ceramic and resin planters to simple growing pots for seedlings. The first decision is whether the pot is for display or for growing, because decorative planters often lack drainage holes, while growing pots prioritise drainage over looks.

Drainage is the next question. Most plants need drainage holes to avoid waterlogged roots; if a decorative pot has none, use it as a cover pot with a plastic nursery pot inside.

Material and size come next. Terracotta breathes and dries out quickly, glazed ceramic holds moisture longer, and resin is light and frost resistant. Large pots are heavy when full of soil, so plan where they will sit before filling them.

Weather matters outdoors. Some ceramic pots crack in frost, so check whether a pot is rated for freezing weather.

Before buying, check the size, drainage, material, frost resistance and whether a saucer is included. Use a potting mix suited to the plant rather than garden soil. Self watering planters with a reservoir suit busy gardeners and hot balconies, and lightweight fibreglass planters are easy to move. For balconies, check the weight limit when filling large pots with wet soil, and use pot feet to raise planters off the floor so water drains and does not stain decking. Seedling pots in peat or fibre can be planted straight into the ground. Drill drainage holes in plastic pots if needed.

How we list products: every listing here has a recorded price, a minimum customer rating and enough ratings or monthly sales. Generic and unbranded listings are left out; every real brand stays, including brands sold only on Amazon. Products are ordered by the same ProductDome score on every page.Editorial policy