But if you live in a climate with cold winter weather, what do you do with your pots?
Do you let the plants wither away and ignore the pots until next spring?
Here’s what you should probably know about planter storage and whether you leave plant pots outside in winter.
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Can You Leave Pots Outside in the Winter?
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Terracotta Pots
Terracotta potsare some of the most likely to crack.
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When temperatures reach below freezing, the water that is absorbed within the terracotta clay can expand.
That expansion can then lead to cracking.
Think about a water bottle that was put in the freezer and how it bulges once it’s frozen.
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This can help prevent cracking since there is as little water as possible present to expand.
Ceramic Pots
Ceramic pots are similar to terracotta pots in their reaction to freezing temperatures.
They will crack if there is water present within the pot to expand.
That’s why plastic pots are totally fine to leave out throughout the winter.
Moving them could be a bigger risk for cracking and damage.
Resin Pots
Resin pots will behave similarly to plastic pots.
They have enough give in the material to expand even when water freezes.
First, empty the pots out completely and then clean them thoroughly.
Any soil that remains is a chance for moisture to make its way in.
“The best way to keep plants outdoors is to store them in a covered shed.
This offers them extra protection and helps extend their lifespan,” Sons says.
Then, turn the pots upside down or elevate them.
All opportunities for moisture to accumulate should be eliminated.
Turning them upside down prevents water from pooling in the bottom and elevating them lets water drain out.
Tip
Don’t have any choice but to leave your pots and planters outside throughout the winter?
It’s not ideal, but you shouldn’t just give up on them.
Instead, empty them out and prepare them just as you would to store them.
Then turn the pots upside down and cover them with a tarp.
This will prevent moisture from getting in and accumulating on the pots, and it also insulates them slightly.
It’s the best fighting chance it’s possible for you to give them against cracks in freezing temperatures.
