Plant pot guide: sizes, repotting steps and care tips

When you order a plant from Plant in a Box, it will arrive in a standard nursery pot. This practical pot is made of plastic, has drainage holes at the bottom, and is usually terracotta-orange in colour. Many plant lovers place the grower’s pot directly onto a saucer or plate to catch excess water, while others prefer to add a decorative pot for extra style. But how do you choose the right size and what should you keep in mind?

How big should the decorative pot be?

The general rule is simple: always choose a pot that is 2–3 cm wider than the nursery pot the plant comes in. For example, if your Monstera arrives in a 17 cm grower’s pot, then a 19–20 cm decorative pot will fit perfectly. This extra space ensures the grower’s pot fits neatly inside while leaving enough room for air circulation and drainage.

Plants that need extra space

Some plants are known for developing strong root systems and may need more room sooner rather than later. Examples include:

• Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig) – famous for fast growth and thick roots.
• Strelitzia nicolai (Bird of Paradise) – loves space to stretch out.
• Areca palm – develops dense root clusters that quickly fill the pot.
• Sansevieria (Snake Plant) – although tough, its rhizomes spread wide beneath the soil.

If you own one of these, consider upsizing the decorative pot a little more generously from the start.

When to repot your plant

Over time, most plants will outgrow their original pot. Signs that it’s time to repot include roots growing out of the drainage holes, soil drying out very quickly after watering, or slowed growth. As a rule of thumb, many plants benefit from repotting every 1–2 years.

How to repot correctly

Repotting may sound tricky, but with a few careful steps your plant will settle happily into its new home:

1. Choose the right pot size – 2–5 cm larger than the current grower’s pot, with drainage holes.
2. Prepare fresh potting mix – always use new soil for optimal nutrients and aeration.
3. Gently remove the plant – tip the pot sideways, support the stem, and ease the roots out.
4. Loosen the roots – gently tease apart circling roots to encourage outward growth.
5. Plant at the same depth – place the plant so the soil line sits at the same level as before.
6. Water well – after potting, give the plant a good drink to help the roots settle.

Final tips

• Always keep the nursery pot inside the decorative pot if you want to swap looks easily.
• Never let water stand at the bottom for too long – most plants dislike wet feet.
• Remember: each plant is different. Fast growers like Monstera or Strelitzia may need frequent repotting, while slower species such as Zamioculcas or Sansevieria can stay put for years.

By choosing the right pot size and repotting at the right time, you’ll give your plants the best conditions to thrive and keep them looking beautiful in your home.