Preventing Root Rot in Glazed Ceramic Pots: Expert Care Guide

Understanding Soil Moisture Dynamics in Ceramics

Glazed ceramic pots are beautiful and durable, but because the glaze seals the clay, moisture cannot evaporate through the walls. This means all evaporation must happen at the soil surface or be absorbed by the roots.

Best Practices to Prevent Root Rot

• Use Well-Draining Soil: Don't use standard garden dirt. Mix your potting soil with 30-40% perlite, pumice, or orchid bark to create air pockets.
• Check Before You Water: Never water on a strict schedule. Insert your finger two inches into the soil. If it feels moist, wait a few more days.
• Never Let Them Sit in Water: After watering, empty the saucer or cachepot within 30 minutes. Standing water suffocates roots quickly.

The Nursery Pot Method (Cachepot)

If you fall in love with a ceramic pot without a drainage hole, simply leave your plant in its plastic nursery pot and drop it directly into the ceramic piece. Take the plant out, water it in the sink, let it drain completely, and place it back.