Containers and Growing Medium

Question 1

Clay / Terracotta Pots
Advantages and disadvantages

Answer 1

Advantages
- Looks attractive
- suits plants that prefer a drier environment
e.g. succulents and alpines

Disadvantages
- may be expensive
- media dries out quicker than plastic
- prone to cracking in frost so needs lifting off ground / putting on feet

Question 2

Plastic Pots
Advantages and disadvantages

Answer 2

Advantages
- Lighter than clay / terracotta
- cheap
- wide range available
- media won’t dry out as quick as clay / terracotta
- can be used to line large ornamental pots

Disadvantages
- not as aesthetically pleasing
- not as stable for larger plants or exposed conditions

Question 3

Metal Pots / Containers
Advantages and disadvantages

Answer 3

Advantages
- modern look
- media won’t dry out as quick as clay / terracotta
- frost proof

Disadvantages
- heat up and cool down quickly
- corrosion / rust

Question 4

Wood Containers
Advantages and disadvantages

Answer 4

Advantages
- aesthetically pleasing
- popular for fruit trees

Disadvantages
- prone to rot

Question 5

keeping pots healthy

Answer 5

• more prone to frost and cold
• limited resources and space
• need regular watering and good drainage to prevent water logging
• need feeding or compost replenishing
• pot on as plant grows