I love a good treasure hunt, especially when it leads me to unique garden finds. Recently, I stumbled upon a quirky, old potato pot at a local thrift store. It’s a sturdy ceramic pot, designed with ventilation holes and a convenient door at the bottom – perfect for harvesting potatoes. But as I admired my find, a question popped into my head: what else could this interesting pot be used for?
These types of pots, often called seeders or even Victorian-style potato planters, are fascinating. Their design isn’t just for potatoes; it’s about encouraging healthy root systems and providing easy access for tending and harvesting. The ventilation helps prevent waterlogging, a common issue for many plants, and the access door can be a handy feature.
So, what houseplant or succulent would thrive in such a unique vessel? Let’s explore some creative potting ideas.
Succulents and Cacti: Many succulents and cacti appreciate excellent drainage and airflow, which this potato pot provides. Small, trailing varieties like String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) or String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii) would look stunning spilling over the sides. You could also create a miniature desert landscape with a few different types of Echeverias or Haworthias. The pot’s depth can accommodate their root systems, and the drainage will keep them happy.
Herbs: Imagine a mini herb garden right on your windowsill or patio. A potato pot is ideal for planting a few of your favorite herbs. Consider basil, mint, chives, or thyme. Mint, in particular, can get a bit aggressive, so planting it in a contained pot like this is a great idea. The ventilation will help keep the soil from becoming too wet, which herbs generally dislike.
Air Plants (Tillandsia): While air plants don’t need soil, they do need good air circulation and occasional watering. You could fill the bottom of the potato pot with some decorative gravel or moss, place your air plants on top, and let them breathe. The open design of the pot would be perfect for this.
Small Ferns or Tropicals: Some smaller ferns or low-light tropical plants could also do well, provided you ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged. The ventilation holes will help prevent fungal issues. A small Boston Fern or a Pothos variety could add a touch of lush greenery.
A Living Arrangement: Why not create a mixed planting? You could pair a trailing succulent with a small, architectural cactus, or perhaps a low-growing herb with a trailing ground cover. The key is to choose plants with similar light and water needs.
When planting, remember to use a well-draining potting mix suitable for your chosen plants. For succulents and cacti, a cactus or succulent mix is best. For herbs, a good quality potting soil with some added perlite for drainage will work wonders. Make sure the access door is secured after planting, perhaps with a small pebble or decorative stone.
This old potato pot, once destined for humble spuds, is now ready to become a stylish home for a new green friend. It’s a wonderful reminder that with a little creativity, even the most ordinary objects can be transformed into something special for our homes and gardens. What unique planters have you discovered, and what are you growing in them?