Taking Care of Quality Italian Terracotta Planters

by | May 20, 2019 | Pottery Store

The absolute best high-quality Italian terracotta planters are made in Italy by accomplished artisans. For this reason, each piece is considered more of an investment that can increase in value over time. They are just as valuable as they are beautiful. For these reasons, it’s important to take proper care of them.

Basic Care Guide

Good drainage is one of the most essential factors for Italian terracotta planters. The pots need to be elevated about an inch off the ground. You may purchase pot feet or wedges, but you don’t have to. You can also place pieces of bricks or wood underneath the pot to get the bottom off the ground. Drainage holes should always be kept open. One trick to ensuring the hole is open is to place a shard from another pot over the hole before filling the pot. Leave soil in the containers rather than leaving them empty. Also, make certain the soil isn’t packed too tightly inside. Water should be able to run out easily.

Frost and Terracotta

As long as you follow a few guidelines, Italian terracotta planters are frost proof down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • During the wintertime, don’t leave the planter empty.
  • During the winter, don’t use saucers to catch drainage. Water can freeze in the saucer and block the drainage holes.
  • To keep plants from becoming pot-bound and clog the drainage holes, remove the plant from the Italian Terracotta planters. Trim the roots and rotate the plant for replacing it in the pot.