Pots, planters and balcony gear
Match the pot to the plant. University of Maryland Extension lists half a gallon of mix as the minimum for leaf lettuce, 2 gallons for a cherry tomato, and 5 for standard tomatoes and peppers. It says every container needs drainage holes, or a self-watering reservoir with an overflow hole (UMD Extension). On a balcony, check the weight and your lease or building rules first.
Self-watering planters, window boxes, railing planters, vertical planters, raised beds and grow bags. Compare size, soil volume, weight when planted and whether you need to drill.
10 of 10 pots, planters and balcony gear match
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Questions people ask
What size pot do herbs need?
University of Maryland Extension says basil, cilantro, thyme, mint, oregano, tarragon and marjoram grow well in 2- to 5-gallon pots. Rosemary, bay, sage, parsley, lavender, dill and fennel need 5 gallons or more (UMD Extension). More in what size pot?
Do pots need drainage holes?
Yes. University of Maryland Extension says all containers need holes or slits to drain extra water. Rocks or gravel at the bottom don't help and can leave the mix waterlogged (UMD Extension). Illinois Extension says the same (Illinois Extension).
How do self-watering planters work?
University of Maryland Extension says the mix sits on a perforated platform above a water reservoir. Roots grow down into the water, and water also wicks up into the mix. An overflow hole on the side lets extra water out (UMD Extension). See self-watering planters.
How heavy is a planter once it's planted?
Heavier than it looks. University of Maryland Extension says a 20-inch pot of moist potting mix and plants can weigh 100 pounds, and suggests a wheeled plant caddy to move heavy pots (UMD Extension). Many makers don't list a filled weight, so we say "Not listed". Check your lease or building rules and your balcony's load limit.
Can I use garden soil in a pot?
No. University of Maryland Extension says soil is too dense for a container, at about 75 pounds per cubic foot, and can drown roots. Potting mix weighs about 10 pounds per cubic foot and drains well (UMD Extension). For herbs it suggests a soilless mix that drains well (UMD Extension).
What about water dripping onto the balcony below?
University of Maryland Extension suggests a saucer under the pot, or a self-watering container with no bottom holes, if you garden above a neighbor's balcony. Empty saucers often so water doesn't rot roots or breed mosquitoes (UMD Extension).