Maegan-Leigh JacobsThere’s something timeless about terracotta pots. Their earthy colour, rustic look, and natural feel bring a warm charm to patios, balconies, and garden beds. I’ve always loved them for how beautifully they age and how well they suit almost any plant. But I’ve also learned (the hard way) that they can be a little high-maintenance if you want them to last.
If you’ve had a terracotta pot crack on you before, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are a few easy things you can do to help them stay intact through the seasons. Here’s what I’ve picked up along the way.
Understand what you’re working with
Terracotta is made from clay and fired at high heat, which gives it that signature look and breathable texture. The downside? It soaks up moisture like a sponge. When that water freezes or heats up too fast, the pot can crack. So, a little TLC goes a long way.
Read more: How to easily clean your terracotta pots
Pick the right spot
Yes, terracotta loves the sun, but even it can have too much of a good thing. If you leave your pots baking all day long, they’ll dry out faster than your plants can keep up, which weakens them over time. Find a spot with some afternoon shade and a bit of protection from wind.
Wind can be surprisingly harsh on these pots, too. I’ve had a few tip over during gusty Cape Town days. Tuck them into corners, use a sturdy base, or group a few together to keep them steady.
Pexels
Prep your pots before planting
This is the part I skipped for years—and paid for with cracked pots. Before adding soil or plants, try sealing the inside with a terracotta-safe waterproofing product. It helps reduce how much water the pot absorbs and keeps it from getting soggy.
You can also line the pot with a breathable material like coconut fibre or landscape fabric. It gives the plant roots space to breathe while protecting the pot from soaking up too much water.
Water smartly
Because these pots are porous, they lose moisture quickly. That’s great for plants that hate soggy roots, but not so great when you’re trying to protect the pot. Try to keep your watering consistent—enough to keep your plant happy, but not so much that the pot stays damp for days.
I’ve also found that a layer of mulch makes a big difference. Something natural, like bark chips or straw, helps lock in moisture and soften temperature swings.
Think ahead for winter
If your winters get chilly, terracotta needs a bit of babying. Moisture inside the clay can freeze and expand, causing it to crack. If you can, move your pots somewhere dry and sheltered during cold snaps. No storage space? Wrap them in something like burlap or even bubble wrap to help them stay snug.
And if you’re bringing them outside again, ease them into the change. A sudden temperature shift can shock the pot and cause damage.
Pexels
Handle with care
A simple but important tip: never drag your terracotta pots. Always lift them. Dragging adds stress to the pot and can cause hairline cracks that worsen over time. It’s also worth checking them every now and then. A tiny chip might not seem like much, but it’s easier to deal with early than after the whole thing splits in two.
Terracotta pots might need a little extra attention, but they’re worth it. With a bit of care, they’ll keep your plants happy and your garden looking lovely season after season. And honestly, part of the joy of gardening is learning how to make things last.
ALSO SEE: CREATIVE WAYS TO USE TERRACOTTA
Images: Pexels
