# containers

Clean containers between uses with hot soapy water. A good soak will help remove salt deposits that have accumulated around the rims.

# size

Pots should generally be about one third wide as the plant is tall. This of course varies with the type of the plant. Because we are growing plants indoors with limited space, another good rule is to choose the smallest container that the plant can healthily live in. Small containers will keep the contained plant small as well. Containers with too much soil to root is also prone to fungus. If potting a large plant, make sure the pot is heavy enough to not topple over.

Pot shape will also depend on the root structure of the plants contained. We can get away with lower depth containers for plants that have shallow, horizontal roots like succulents. Plants with deep taproots may survive better in long thing containers.

# drainage

Containers for pots should have drainage holes on the bottom for excess water to escape. You can put a thin layer of pebbles in the bottom of the pot to improve drainage and prevent soil from escaping with the excess water.

Cache pots are pots without drainage holes. These are usually ornamental and meant to hold a thinner (usually plastic) liner pot that has drainage holes that actually contains the plant. Line the bottom of cache pots with some loose pebbles. This helps prevent overwatering by giving excess water somewhere to escape to.

# materials

# Terra-Cotta Clay Pots

The classic clay pot's earth tone pairs well with plants. It provides a cohesive look when clustered together. The material dries quickly, and should be used for plants that like a spot of dryness between watering. Clay also breathes well and provides good weight for a solid base. When these pots are broken, smash the larger pieces into small pieces to use as bottom liners.

# Plastic Pots

These come in many more shapes, colors, and varieties. Plastic retains moisture well, and is suited for plants that struggle with water loss.

# repotting

# when to repot

repotting needs to happen eventually, even bonsai gets a refresh every once in a while. Repotting shocks the plant, and while the plant is in full swing it may not be the best time to repot. There are a few ways you can tell if a repot is needed.

• roots are poking out of the bottom
• roots are circling the top
• water runs through pot too quickly
• plant has been in the same pot for 3-4 years
• plant simply looks too big for its pot
• top is too heavy for pot to keep upright

# instructions

1. New pot should ideally be 1 and not more than 2 sizes larger than old one (each size is usually 2 inches larger). Place rocks or pottery shards in the bottom for drainage before adding new soil.
2. Remove plant from old pot, soil and root ball should conform to pot, if not then there is probably room left for the plant to grow in the current pot.
3. Wash roots and prune dead and damaged roots
4. Break root ball and remove old soil
5. Lower plant into new pot and fill until pot is within half an inch of the rim.
6. Leave repotted plant away from hard direct light for about 3 days without watering to adjustment.

# top dressing: changing soil for large plants

1. Scrape away about 2 inches of top soil
2. Add new soil until about .5 inch of the pot rim
3. Pat firm, water, and feed the plant.