Are you in search of houseplants that thrive in shallow pots? Look no further! In this article, we’ll introduce you to a variety of plants with shallow roots that are perfect for shallow containers.
Shallow pots have become increasingly popular among gardeners and homeowners. They are easy to handle and offer stylish options to enhance any space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a home decorator, we’ve got you covered with recommendations for herbs, flowers, and houseplants that will thrive in shallow pots.
Best Houseplants for Shallow Pots
Shallow plant pots not only add visual appeal to any space, but they also provide the perfect environment for certain types of plants that prefer less soil depth. Let’s explore some of our favorite varieties of plants for shallow planters and share some tips on how to care for them.
1. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
At the top of the list of plants that thrive in shallow pots are snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata). Even larger varieties of snake plants do well with less depth compared to other plants of the same size.
Snake plants have shallow root systems and prefer snug fits. They grow wide rather than deep, making them suitable for shallow but wide pots. The size of the pot determines the growth of the plant, with larger pots resulting in larger plants. For taller varieties, wider pots provide stability.
If size is a limiting factor, snake plants will slow their growth to fit the pot. For stability, choose a stable pot such as a square or cylindrical shape.
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos plants are tropical vines with heart-shaped and variegated leaves. They are easy to care for and have shallow root systems. Pothos prefer shallow containers for lateral support, allowing them to grow outward and weigh on other objects without damaging their stems.
Regardless of the size of the root ball, it’s important to provide a little more room in the pot to prevent the plant from becoming thin and long. Watering should be done once every seven to ten days, and they prefer bright but indirect light.
3. String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus)
String of Pearls is a unique succulent with small pea-sized orbs that grow on trailing vines. These orbs are actually the plant’s leaves. They are perfect for hanging in deep pots within your home.
String of Pearls prefers bright but indirect light and should be given a well-soaking every one or two weeks. If the orbs begin to shrivel, they need more water. The plant’s shallow roots make it a perfect fit for a shallow container with drainage holes.
4. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
Baby rubber plants are small, bushy plants with rubbery leaves. They are perfect for shallow pots and can fit anywhere in your home. These shallow-rooted houseplants always stay small and take on a bushy shape.
Baby rubber plants prefer bright but indirect light and should be watered every two to three weeks. They thrive in temperatures ranging from 65-75°F and enjoy high humidity.
5. Nerve Plant (Fittonia albivenis)
Nerve plants have elaborative variegation, with light shades branching out along the veins of their dark green leaves. These plants grow near the ground and have shallow roots, making them ideal for shallow containers. They work well for bathroom placements or terrarium arrangements with other plants.
Nerve plants prefer bright but indirect lighting and should be watered once the soil starts to dry. They enjoy high humidity, so it’s important to keep their environment moist. Fertilize them every week using a balanced and diluted mixture, and prune them by pinching off any flower or leaf buds growing farther from the central stem.
6. Pinstripe Plant (Calathea ornata)
Calathea, also known as the Pinstripe Plant, gets its name from its leaf variegation patterns. It has shallow roots, making it perfect for small pots. Pots that are too deep can collect moisture at the base, which the shallow-rooted plant won’t reach.
Pinstripe plants prefer bright but indirect light and should be watered every seven days in summer and every other week in winter. They enjoy high humidity, so misting them regularly can help create the right environment. Pruning involves cutting off damaged or yellow leaves to keep the plant healthy.
These are just a few examples of the many plants that thrive in shallow pots. Remember to research the specific needs of each plant before choosing the perfect pot for them. Whether you opt for houseplants, flowers, or herbs, there’s a wide variety of plants that will flourish in shallow containers.
So go ahead and add some greenery to your home with these easy-to-care-for plants that will thrive in shallow pots!
