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How to Choose the Right Size Pot for Your Plants

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published February 11, 2025

The size of your pots is a key element in ensuring a healthy plant. Using a pot that is too large is inefficient and can lead to overwatering. A smaller one can inhibit the growth of roots. This guide covers practical tips to help you figure out the correct pot size for your plants.

When Does Your Plant Need a New Pot

Observe your plant regularly for any of the below factors. They are indications that your plant needs to be transferred to a new pot.

1. Slow Growth

One of the obvious signs is that your plant is growing slower than usual. You may also notice that the newer leaves are smaller in size even when fully grown. If your plant is not producing any new leaves in its growing season, it could be due to crowded roots in the pot.

2. Roots Out of Soil

If you notice the roots of the plants poking out of the soil, it could mean that your plant has outgrown the container. You must also check if the roots come from the pot’s drainage holes. Over time, this can lead to poor drainage and damage to the plant.

3. Changed Water Requirements

Keep a check if the soil is too dry or stays wet than usual. If yes, this could be a sign that your plant needs repotting. This often happens due to a lack of space in the container. When the roots take up too much space, there is less room for water absorption. The water can dry out too quickly or pool at the top. Compaction of soil may also cause these issues. Whatever the reason, you must re-pot the plant in a bigger container to maintain it.

How to Know What Pot Size Is Right for Your Plant

You need to consider several factors to know the correct pot size for your plant. Follow the below instructions to make the right decision:

Caution

Refer to the plant’s use and care manual to know the recommended pot materials.

Pot Size Based on Plant Roots

Each type of plant has its own space requirements. How much space a plant needs depends on its root system. You can check the plant’s user manual or search online to find the type of root system.

  • Succulents and cacti have a fine root system, and their roots grow at a slow rate. A pot that is 1 inch larger than the original pot will suffice for such plants.
  • If you need to repot plants with large roots, select a pot at least 2 inches bigger than the previous one. This ensures enough space for the roots and proper water drainage.

Pot Size for A Plant Cutting

You might have a plant cutting with roots that are not already in a pot.  

  • Place the plant cutting on a flat surface.
  • Take a measuring tape and measure the length of the roots. Let’s say the measurement was 1-inch.
  • Now, add 2-inches to this measurement. This is the required diameter of the pot.

Selecting Pot Sizes of Different Shapes

Usually, pots for plants are either measured by their diameter or the quantity of soil they can hold. Some of the most used pot sizes include:

  1. Small plant pots: less than 8 quarts
  2. Medium plant pots: 8 to 25 quarts
  3. Large plant pots: 25 to 65 quarts
  4. Extra-large plant pots: more than 65 quarts

If you want to find the pot size for plants in a specific shape, use this as a guide:

  • Round pots: Measure the roots of the plant along their length with a measuring tape. Add at least 2 inches to it. Select a round pot that is closest to this measurement.
  • Rectangle or square pots: Consider both the length and width of the pot. Measure the length of its roots and add 2 inches to it. This will allow the pot to hold enough soil and prevent root rot. If you are planting multiple plants, leave at least a 2-inch gap between the two plants.