Cultivation in pots is an increasingly widespread solution for those who do not have the possibility of having a vegetable garden on the ground. However, choosing the right container is essential to ensure proper growth of plants, including tomatoes. In this article, we will find out what are the factors to consider in order to select the most suitable pot.
THE CAPACITY OF THE POT
The first factor to consider is the capacity of the pot. In general, the bigger the pot, the better it is for the plants. For the cultivation of tomatoes, for example, it is advisable to opt for a container with a diameter and a height of at least 30 cm, whether you choose a round or square pot. Alternatively, you can use rectangular planters that can hold 2 to 3 plants. If you want to use fruit crates, these must be deep enough and resistant, and lined internally with a perforated plastic on the bottom. Furthermore, if you have wooden boxes, measuring 1 meter by 2 metres, you can plant up to 6 tomatoes in two rows.
THE SHAPE AND MATERIAL OF THE POT
The shape and material of the pot are two important things to consider. On the market there are plastic, terracotta and wooden containers, each with its own characteristics.
Plastic pots are lightweight and waterproof, which means they retain soil moisture for a longer period. Furthermore, they do not present any risk of breaking if they fall in the wind. However, they are not very resistant to UV rays and tend to deform over time. The plastic containers with air pruning of the roots, available on the market, are an excellent choice to ensure optimal results both in terms of root system and plant health and productivity.
Terracotta pots, on the other hand, are very elegant and can be painted as desired, but they are also more fragile and tend to break easily as well as being much heavier. Also, because they absorb water, the soil tends to dry out faster than in a plastic pot.
Finally, wooden pots are the least durable, but offer a natural look to the garden. However, they tend to be more expensive and require more care.
In summary, to choose the ideal pot for growing in pots, it is necessary to consider the capacity, shape and material of the container. If you opt for tomatoes, you will have to choose a container of at least 30 cm in diameter and in height, while for other plants, such as aromatics, you can use smaller pots. In any case, it is important to evaluate the characteristics of the different materials available on the market in order to make an informed choice.
THE ROOTHUS SYSTEM
