Care for New Clay Pots

Prepare new clay pots for planting.

Clay pots are a standard garden supply, coming in a wide range of sizes from tiny to mammoth. Because clay is a natural and porous material, you must maintain and store them carefully to prevent breakage. New clay pots are inexpensive and you can find them easily in any store with a gardening department. Care for new clay pots before you use them for planting to ensure the pots stay intact and your plants stay healthy.

Things You'll Need

• Large tub or sink
• Stones or window screen

Instructions

1. Check the clay pot to ensure it is structurally sound. Clay pots can develop tiny cracks because of bumps. You may not see these cracks at first until they grow larger and eventually cause the pot to break. Tap the rim of the pot with your fingernail. If you hear a ringing tone, the pot is intact. If your tap sounds dull, the pot may have an unseen crack--do not buy it.

2. Fill the tub or sink with cool water.

3. Place the new, uncracked pots into the water and push them under the surface to soak. Leave the pots soaking for about 10 minutes to remove dirt and prepare them for planting.

4. Remove the pots and shake off the excess water. Place a few stones or a small piece of window screen in the bottom of the pot over the drainage hole to prevent soil from escaping when you water.

5. Fill the pots with potting soil and place plants in them.

Tips & Warnings

• Empty pots at the end of the growing season if you live where it freezes. Store empty pots where they will not freeze.

References

• Ohio State University Extension: Gardening in Containers