Unique plants. Unique planters. Is the determination to be so unique worth it?

Yes.

And no.

Having unique planters: 10/10

Nothing makes your jungle or single plant sparkle quite like a unique planter. They’re fun to collect! You can go random or stick to a style or theme. I’ve noticed stores display their best planters and pots mid-February to late October.

Buying unique planters: 4/10

They can get EXPENSIVE! In discount stores like Burlington, Ross, and TJ Maxx, the minimum you’ll pay is $6. (Terracottas of the same size cost $1-$5.)

And if you’re like me, who loves to compare prices and styles, you can spend DAYS searching for the cutest pots and best deals. It’s stressful and time-consuming.

Hint: TJ Maxx and Marshals are basically the same stores, but the stuff in Marshals is about a dollar cheaper. Supply stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s have the most expensive pots I’ve seen: $10+ but they’re better for outdoors and for larger plants like trees.

Using unique planters: 7/10

They can be short, tall, round, and thin. Or in crazy shapes such as animals, heads, and hangers. Each one comes with their own special rules and custom planting method depending on the plant, drainage, and shape.

Unique shapes are best for cactus and succulents, as they do not require much water. If you’re going to use potting soil, cover the bottom 1-2″ (2.5-5cm) of your planter with rocks so the excess water has a safe space to sit. Here’s the mix I use and love, and it’s super easy to find at a garden center or online.

All planters need good drainage. I’ve bought a few that let the water sit a while and even then, just dribble out the bottom. If your planter doesn’t have a drainage hole, flip a cheapo terracotta pot over and set it at the bottom so the roots can rest on it. It also depends greatly on how well your plant’s roots can tolerate being damp or dry.

Hint: At the bottom of your pot, stack river rocks about 1-2″ (2.5-5cm) high, but add more depending on the size of your container. I find these drain quicker than those tiny pebbles and are great for pots with poor drainage.

In total, I rate unique planters 7/10

It’s definitely a learning process so don’t start off with expensive plants. Get cheap pothos, peace lily, or a cute umbrella tree. All can be found for less than $5.

The joy of matching your favorite planter with the perfect plant far out weights the trail of death you’ll probably leave behind. Just be sure to pace yourself and keep within a budget. It’s too easy to become “the crazy plant lady” with an empty checking account.