Plant + Pot Pairings: How to Choose the Right Pot for Your Houseplant
Understanding how to choose the right pot for your houseplant can make a big difference in both plant health and overall style. The right pairing supports proper growth, prevents common care issues, and helps your plant feel like a natural part of your space.
Whether you’re repotting a longtime favorite or styling a new plant, this guide breaks down the essentials from pot size to materials with modern, thoughtful options in mind.
Why the Right Pot Matters
A pot isn’t just decorative. It plays a key role in how your plant grows and thrives.
The right planter:
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Encourages healthy root development
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Prevents overwatering and root rot
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Completes the look of your plant and space
Start with the Right Pot Size
One of the most common mistakes is choosing a pot that’s too large.
General rule:
Choose a pot that’s 1–2 inches wider than your plant’s current nursery pot.
Too much extra space can cause soil to stay wet for too long, stressing the roots.
Drainage Is Non-Negotiable
Drainage holes allow excess water to escape, protecting roots from sitting in moisture.
If you love a decorative pot without drainage, use it as a cache pot by keeping the plant in its nursery pot inside.
Kanso Pots with Drainage
Kanso planters are designed with both function and aesthetics in mind, making them ideal for everyday houseplants.
Match Pot Material to Plant Needs
Different materials affect moisture and airflow.
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Ceramic & stone: Hold moisture longer; great for plants that like consistent watering
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Lightweight composite pots: Easy to move and modern in feel
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Upcycled or sustainable materials: Ideal for eco-conscious plant parents
Pair Plants & Pots by Style
A thoughtful plant + pot pairing enhances both.
Minimal Plants, Minimal Pots
Clean-lined plants like snake plants or ZZ plants pair beautifully with neutral, modern planters.
Lush Plants, Grounded Pots
Full, leafy plants benefit from slightly heavier planters that visually anchor them.
When to Repot Your Houseplant
Signs your plant may need a new pot:
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Roots growing out of drainage holes
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Water running straight through
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Growth slowing despite good care
Spring is ideal for repotting, but a stressed or root-bound plant may need attention sooner.
Thoughtful Pairings Make All the Difference
Knowing how to choose the right pot for your houseplant allows you to care for your plants with confidence — and style them beautifully. With functional, modern planters like Kanso pots, your plants get the support they need while your space stays calm and cohesive.
Explore Urbane Eight’s curated selection of plants and pots to create pairings that grow with you.
FAQ: Plant & Pot Pairings
How do I know what size pot my houseplant needs?
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger than the current container to allow healthy root growth without overwatering.
Do all houseplants need drainage holes?
Yes, drainage is essential. If a pot doesn’t have holes, use it as a cache pot.
Are Kanso pots good for houseplants?
Kanso pots are designed with drainage and durable materials, making them ideal for everyday houseplant care.
Can I repot a plant any time of year?
Spring is best, but repotting is fine year-round if the plant is root-bound or stressed.