What is the Difference Between Pot and Planter

The main difference between pot and planter is that pots are small and round and house only one plant whereas planters are irregular in shape and can house more than one plant.

Pots and planter are two types of containers in which we can grow plants. Although there is a distinct difference between pot and planter, we often use these two words interchangeably. All in all, selecting the right container for your plant very important! The planter or pot you choose can affect how well the plant grows, how quickly the soil dries out and how healthy its roots are. Of course, this is all in addition to how well the plant and the container look, inside or outside your home.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Pot
     – Definition, Features 
2. What is a Planter
     – Definition, Features
3. What is the Difference Between Pot and Planter
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Plant, Planter, Pot

What is a Pot

Pots are usually small and round containers designed to house one plant. They can be commonly seen alongside plants since they add a traditional look. They are available in various materials including ceramic, plastic, clay and terracotta. Other materials like glass, wood, crystal, and fibreglass can also add a creative look to your pot and plant. However, ceramic and terracotta are more suitable for placing plants since they are porous. They are also more environmentally friendly than plastic pots.

When you are choosing a pot, you should also pay attention to the size of the pot. Always go for a pot that will give the plant enough space, but at the same time, you must make sure that the pot is not too big so as to make the plant appear very small.  Choose a pot that is at least 1-2” larger than the plant.

Drainage is another important factor to consider before choosing a pot. Always make sure that there are adequate drainage holes in the pot. If excess water is not able to escape from the pot, the plant will drown. Weight is also a factor you have to consider. If you choose a heavy pot, it will be difficult to move it around the room.

What is a Planter

A planter is basically a container for growing plants. They are usually designed for outdoors and have an irregular size. They tend to be long, narrow, and rectangular, but this is not to say that there are no planters with round or square shapes. We also consider hanging baskets and cones as planters, not pots. Planters can house many plants at once, often creating a mini garden of its own.

Most people use the two words planter and pot interchangeably. Even gardening catalogues and gardening supply stores list the same products under both.

Difference Between Pot and Planter

Definition

Pots are usually small and round containers designed to house one plant while planters are containers that are irregular in shape and can house more than one plant.

Shape

While pots are typically small and round, planters tend to be long and narrow, rectangular in shape. 

Plants

We use pots to plant only one plant while we can use pots to plant more than one plant.

Use

Pots can be used both indoors and outdoors while planters are usually used outdoors.

Conclusion

Pots and planter are two types of containers in which we can grow plants. Pots are small and round and house only one plant whereas planters are irregular in shape and can house more than one plant.  Although there is a distinct difference between pot and planter, we often use these two words interchangeably.

Reference:

1. “How-To: Pick a Planter for Your Plant.” The Sill, 21 May 2018, Available here.
2. Popa, Alexandru. “How to Choose a Good Planter or Pot for Your Plants.” Artiplanto, 11 Jan. 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Five green cacti align to each other” (CC0) via Pickpik
2. “Flowers, planters, flower box, garden, container plant, decoration, floral decorations” (CC0) via Pikist