Best Planters & Pots — Terracotta (2026)

Terracotta literally translates to ‘baked earth’ in Italian. It's a naturally occurring clay that's fired at high temperatures, resulting in a durable and porous material with a distinctive reddish-brown colour. The porosity is key to terracotta’s benefits for plant roots.

Terracotta pots are generally excellent for most plants, but they're particularly well-suited for moisture-loving plants like ferns and orchids, as the porous nature helps prevent overwatering. However, plants that thrive in very dry conditions might prefer a different pot material.

Terracotta naturally develops a patina over time through exposure to water and sunlight, which is considered a desirable feature. You don't typically need to seal it; however, if you’re concerned about staining or rapid colour change, a thin coat of beeswax-based sealant can be applied sparingly.

Terracotta requires minimal maintenance. Regularly wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth will remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. To prevent cracking in freezing temperatures, you can wrap the pot with bubble wrap or burlap.

Yes, terracotta pots can be painted! However, it's best to use a primer designed for porous materials to ensure proper adhesion. Consider using specialist ceramic paints and allow adequate drying time between coats.

Terracotta’s porosity allows the soil to breathe, which helps prevent overwatering and excessive moisture buildup. However, it doesn't retain moisture in the same way as glazed ceramic pots; you'll need to check the soil regularly to ensure it isn’t drying out.

The best way is to stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Alternatively, you can lift the pot – a lighter pot indicates drier soil than a heavier one.

The key difference is porosity. Terracotta pots are porous, allowing air and moisture to pass through, while glazed ceramic pots have a waterproof surface that prevents this. This affects watering frequency and root health.

Terracotta can be susceptible to cracking in freezing temperatures if the water inside expands when it freezes. Wrapping the pot with bubble wrap or burlap offers protection against frost damage.

Most terracotta planters come with standard 20mm drainage holes, which are generally sufficient for most plants. However, larger plants may benefit from slightly larger holes to ensure efficient water drainage and prevent root rot.