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The Best Pots for Indoor Plants: A Comprehensive Look

There’s more to a planting pot than just the appearance.

And finding the right pot is somewhat of a sweet science. Luckily we’ve compiled all the information into one easy-to-read guide to save you some time and buyer’s remorse!

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

  1. How to Choose Your Pot
  2. Best Overall Indoor Pots
  3. Best Pots for Succulents
  4. Best Hanging Indoor Pots
  5. Best Large Indoor Pots
  6. Best Small Indoor Pots
  7. Best Indoor Pot Sets

How to Choose the Best Pot for Your Indoor Plant

Before we get into choosing the correct size for your plant, it should be clarified that the size listed refers to the diameter of the pot’s opening. Your standard pot will be as deep as it is wide and is often specified if that’s not the case.

The main exceptions to this rule are Azalea pots and bulb pans which are designed for plants with genetically shorter root systems. Azalea pots are only ¾ as deep as the diameter and bulb pans are ½ as deep as the diameter.

Size:

  • An ideal planting pot is approximately 10 percent larger than the width of the plant. This will allow it some room to grow. For example, a 5-inch plant would need a 5.5 to 6-inch pot.
  • If your plant has outgrown its pot, you will need a pot that is approximately 1-2 inches larger to achieve a healthy soil to root ratio. If the current pot is over 10 inches in diameter, you want a pot that is 2-4 inches bigger.

Materials:

Unglazed Ceramic Pots: Most commonly made from terra-cotta clay, these pots are porous which allows moisture and air to reach the roots more easily.

Here are the benefits of unglazed ceramic pots:

  • Clay pots remove the excess moisture from the soil. This makes them much more forgiving to overwatering, one of the most common mistakes made by new gardeners.
  • Your soil will dry out faster which is great for plants that prefer dry climates such as succulents, bromeliads, and cacti. This also means you have to water more often for plants not accustomed to drier environments.
  • Clay is the heaviest material that ensures larger plants don’t tip over.  
  • Chemical fertilizers are known to leave excess water-soluble salts in the soil which can cause damage to the roots and can ultimately kill the plant. The pores in the pot absorb these unwanted salts which will make for a healthier root system. 

Over time, the absorption of these salts results in an unattractive white residue on the outside of the pot. Luckily there is a quick fix to this problem. 

Plastic Pots: Unlike clay pots, plastic pots are not porous which keeps moisture in the soil much longer.

Here are the benefits of plastic pots:

  • Great for moisture retainment, which means less watering!
  • Lightweight, affordable, and easy to match with your decor.
  • Easy to clean. No need to worry about that unsightly white crust that comes with clay. 

Glazed Ceramic Pots: Glazed ceramics are essentially the perfect balance between their plastic and unglazed ceramic counterparts. They are not porous like plastic but are considerably heavier. 

Here are the benefits of unglazed ceramic pots:

  • They DO NOT absorb water from the soil, unlike unglazed ceramic pots. If you are forgetful, or even just lazy when it comes to watering your plants this is the best choice for you.
  • Similar to plastic pots, they come in a variety of shapes and colors and are a breeze to clean and sterilize. 
  • These pots are heavy which prevents larger plants from tipping over

Drainage:

If you get anything from this article, it is that your pots should have drainage! 

DO NOT try to use rocks or other coarse materials for drainage.

Dr. Chalker-Scott, a horticulturist and professor, wrote here that “the coarser the underlying material, the more difficult it is for water to move across the interface.” 

The only way to properly drain your soil of water and provide aeration to the roots is through drainage holes. Obviously, you’ll need something to catch the water; look for a pot that also comes with a saucer. If you can, buy pots with detachable saucers because they are much easier to use.

Best Overall Indoor Pots

1. Set of 3 Small to Medium Sized Round White Ceramic Pots

mygift 3 round pots for indoor plants

These white ceramic pots from MyGift are simple but elegant and great for the beginning gardener!

Here’s what makes these pots great:

  • This set of 3 comes in 3 different sizes to fit a variety of different plants: Large- 6.7 inches in diameter x 5.3 inches in depth; Medium- 5.2 inches x 4.3 inches; Small- 3.8 inches x 3.2 inches. 
  • They all come with drainage holes and a saucer! My only complaint is the saucers are attached. 
  • The unassuming, contemporary design of these pots allows your plants to be the focal point of your indoor garden. 

2. Potey Ceramic Planter Flower Plant Pot – 5.1” with Drain Hole Saucer

poety ceramic pot for indoor plants

This ceramic pot from Potey is an absolute eye-catcher. You don’t have to be an interior designer to see how this pot could liven up any living space. 

Why this Poter Ceramic Pot is one of the best:

  • The pot has a drainage hole and a saucer to catch the excess water. I can’t emphasize just how valuable this is to grow healthy plants.
  • A modern, artistic design makes this pot a great addition to any office, room, or windowsill. 
  • These pots are baked at a high temperature to harden the ceramic which increases durability.   

3. Fox & Fern 8″ Plant Pot

fox & fern pot for indoor plants

Our next choice has become a sensation in the gardening world. The Fox & Fern is made of fiberstone which is consists of a fiberglass skeleton surrounded by a stone exterior. 

Here’s what the Fox & Fern has to offer:

  • A fiberglass skeleton which makes this pot much lighter than traditional stone planters.
  • A pre-drilled, pluggable drainage hole. Without a saucer to catch the water, this isn’t much help unless you plan to use it outdoors.
  • It can fit into almost any similar-sized plant stand. Fox & Fern actually manufactures their own custom-fit stands.

Best Indoor Pots for Succulents

1. Terra Cotta Pots with Saucer- 9-Pack Clay Flower Pots with Saucers

terra cotta clay pots for succulent

An unglazed terra cotta clay pot is a succulent’s dream home! This set of 9 pots is perfect for small/mini-sized plants that thrive in drier climates. 

Here’s why you need these pots if you own succulents:

  • The porous nature of the clay allows the pot to absorb moisture from the soil very quickly. This makes a great environment for succulents which can be overwatered very easily.
  • They are only 3 inches in diameter. This will provide the perfect soil-to-root ratio inside the pot to encourage healthy root systems and ultimately a happy, healthy succulent. 
  • All come with detachable saucers! As I’ve said several times, attached saucers are such a pain in the butt. Detachable saucers make draining water easy and effective. 

2. One Goods Ceramic White Mini Textured Succulent Plant Pot/Cactus Plant Pot with Bamboo Arched Tray

ceramic pots for indoor plants with bamboo tray

This set of 4 pots and included bamboo tray is the perfect start to bringing some life into any room. All you need are some succulents of your choice and you are well on your way to brightening up your home or office!

Here’s what this 4-piece ceramic set has to offer:

  • Each pot comes with a drainage hole. Unfortunately, they do not come with saucers so you’ll have to buy them separately or make your own. 
  • All the pots are baked at high-temperatures to improve durability.
  • Dimensions: Pot- 3.5 x 3.5 x 2.7 inch (L x W x H) / Stand- 14.2 x 4.3 x 3.7 inch(L x W x H).

3. Kralix Succulent Planter Pots

hexagonal pots for succulents

This set of 3 pots is a breath of fresh air! The shape and black colorway is something you just don’t see a lot when searching for indoor pots.

The highlights of the Kralix Succulent Planter Pots:

  • Drainage hole and detachable saucers.
  • A complimentary tray is included with the pots which can be extremely helpful when moving these little guys around. You can also fill the tray with decorative rocks for an even better look!

Best Hanging Indoor Pots

1. QEESTARS 2-piece Round Plastic Resin Chain Basket Hanging Planter

plastic hanging pot

This two-piece set from Qeestars is affordable, attractive, and can be used in a variety of ways. They are lightweight and perfect for hanging plants. 

Here’s why you should choose the QEESTARS hanging planters:

  • Great for indoor and outdoor use. They can either be used as hanging plants or as regular pots.
  • The plastic construction is leak-free and rust-free. Each pot comes with an open/close drainage hole. 
  • With a respectable size of 8.2 inches in diameter and a height of 5.1 inches, this planter can fit multiple mid sized plants.

2. Mkono Ceramic Hanging Planter

Mkono ceramic hanging pot

This hanging planter from Mkono is another great choice if you want an elevated gardening experience. It is available by itself or in a 2-piece set and is a cozy fit for small plants. 

  • These specific pots are hung using cotton rope instead of thin metal hanging chains. Rope will last you much longer, especially if you decide to use it outdoors as it won’t rust. 
  • Dimensions: Diameter 5″ x Height 3 1/4″. Great size for small flowers, herbs, ivies and of course succulents. 
  • Ideal for those that don’t want their kids or pets playing/messing with the plants.

3. Mkono Ceramic Hanging Planter 3 Tier Indoor Wall Plant Holder

Mkono multi-tier hanging planter

Yet another appearance from the good folks at Mkono! Except for this time they’ve designed a modern, multi-tiered planter that comes with 3 white ceramic pots. 

Why you should choose the Mkono 3-Tier Plant Holder:

  • Multi-tier design is aesthetic and compact! If you don’t have room for multiple pots this can be a lifesaver!
  • The pots are made of quality white ceramic held by cotton hanging rope. Each pot comes with a pluggable drainage hole as well. 
  • Holder dimensions: 28 1/2″ Height x 6 1/4″ Length x 3 1/4″ Width. 
  • Pot size: 6-1/2″ Length x 3-1/4″ Width x 2-1/2″ Height. These are long enough to fit multiple small plants in each pot but be careful not to overcrowd them! 

Best Large Indoor Pots

1. Honeysuckle Planter, Patio Pot, 15″ Tequila Sunrise

honeysuckle large pot for indoor plants

I like big…pots and I cannot lie! This planter from Classic Home and Garden is great for not only indoor but outdoor use as well.

Here’s why the Honeysuckle Planter is an all-time favorite:

  • Despite its appearance, this pot is not made of metal/ceramic and is surprisingly lightweight.
  • This particular pot is available in 10 different, unique colorways. From “bamboo” to “ocean”, to “tequila sunrise”, the color choices are exciting and can match any home decor. 
  • The fact there are no drainage holes may be concerning, but don’t fear, YouTube is here! This tutorial shows you how easy it is to drill your own drainage holes in a pot! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-YqA4a-HNE

2. Bloem Freesia Planter w/Saucer, 16″

Bloem freesia large pot fo indoor plants

Larger pots can be a task to move and that’s even before it’s filled with soil! Save your back and some money with this lightweight pot from Bloem.

The highlights of the Bloem Freesia Planter:

  • With a respectable size of 16 inches in diameter, this model is one of the few large pots that come with a drainage hole and an attached saucer
  • Because it is made of polypropylene plastic, this pot is easy to move and the colors won’t fade from prolonged exposure to sunlight. 
  • Dimensions: Top Width=17 inches x Base Width=11 inches x Height=15 inches.   

3. Rivet Mid-Century Ceramic Planter with Stand

mid century indoor planter with stand

This pot and stand combination from Rivet is durable, stylish, and has a very high-quality appearance and feel to it. 

Here are the best aspects of the Rivet Mid-Century:

  • This is the only selection that comes with a sturdy iron stand included. This can be great for keeping your plants out of the reach of children or curious pets. 
  • It is very heavy, so there is no chance of your plant tipping over
  • Another great part about this pot is it is available in 8 equally elegant colorways. 

Best Small Indoor Pots

1. Chive – Set of 3 Liberte, Small 3 Inch Succulent Pot with Saucer and Drainage

chive round ceramic pots for indoor plants

Despite the name, these are more than ideal for small flowers and other small plants besides just succulents. If you don’t want just a plain white pot, check these out.

The highlights of the Chive 3-piece set:

  • Each of these pots is 3.25″ in diameter and height; great for small plants such as mini cactus, mini orchids, and a wide array of succulents.
  • Their bright and colorful design is the perfect fit for the more eccentric gardener!
  • Not only do they have drainage holes but they also come with detachable drainage saucers!

Best Indoor Pot Sets

1. DeElf 10 Set Plastic Flower Pots: 6-inch Planters with Drainage and Saucers for Indoor Plants

DeElf plastic pot set for indoor plants

Highlights of the DeElf 10-piece plastic set:

  • Each pot comes with a drainage hole and detachable saucer to help aerate your soil and your plant’s roots.
  • I personally think this is the best deal on the market with the math working out to less than $2 per pot. 
  • Thanks to the durable plastic exterior, this flower pot set is considerably less likely to break from a fall; I can’t say the same about ceramic or clay pots!

2. 4-Pack of Indoor Round Planter Pots with Saucer

decorative ceramic pots for indoor plants

This 4-pack of ceramic pots is made from sturdy ceramic and is surprisingly lightweight.

Here are some highlights:

  • Each pot comes with a different carved design.
  • Each pot is available with a drainage system and an attached saucer.