How to Care for and Clean Your Planters and Pots
Why caring for pots matters
Clean, well-maintained planters don’t just look better — they keep plants healthier by preventing disease, salt build-up, and pests. A little care also helps pots last for years. Here’s how.
Clean pots between plants
Before reusing a pot for a new plant, wash it out to remove old soil, roots, and any disease or pests left behind. A clean pot gives the new plant a healthy, safe start.
Remove white salt build-up
Over time, white crusty deposits (mineral salts from water and fertiliser) appear on pots, especially terracotta. Scrub them off with a brush and water — these salts can harm roots if they build up.
Keep drainage holes clear
Check that drainage holes haven’t become blocked by roots or compacted soil. Clear them so water can always escape — blocked drainage leads to soggy, rotting roots.
Protect pots from cracking
- Keep terracotta and ceramic out of constant harsh sun where possible.
- Move delicate pots to shelter in extreme weather.
- Lift heavy pots properly (or use pot stands/wheels) to avoid drops.
Care by material
Wipe down ceramic and metal pots to keep them looking fresh; rinse plastic pots to prevent algae; let terracotta breathe and dry out between waterings. Each material lasts longer with the right care.
Refresh the soil
Even if you keep the same plant, top up or refresh the potting mix periodically, as nutrients deplete and soil compacts over time. Healthy soil means a healthy plant.
Store spare pots properly
Stack and store unused pots in a dry place, out of harsh sun, so they’re clean and ready (and not cracked) when you next need them.
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