So, you’ve got your plants. Maybe some chili seedlings, a pandan starter, or that gorgeous bunga kantan you picked up last weekend. Now comes the million-ringgit question:
“Which pot should I put it in?”
Spoiler alert: Not all pots are created equal. And yes — the wrong pot can actually stunt your plant’s growth, cause root rot, or dry it out faster than your WiFi during a thunderstorm.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the right pot for every type of plant, what to avoid, and how to make your garden look stylish while still being practical.
🌱 Rule #1: Size Matters (But Bigger Isn’t Always Better)
Choosing the right size is crucial.
For Herbs (like basil, mint, or curry leaf seedlings):
- Pot size: 6–8 inches diameter
- Why: Too big = water stays stagnant = root rot
- Bonus: Herbs do great in smaller pots, just prune often
For Veggies (chili, tomato, brinjal):
- Pot size: 12–18 inches diameter & at least 12 inches deep
- Why: Need space for root growth + stable base for stems
- Tip: Go for heavier pots to prevent toppling
For Root Crops (ginger, turmeric, sweet potato):
- Pot size: Wide & deep — at least 16–20 inches across
- Why: These crops grow horizontally more than vertically
- Bonus: Rectangular plastic tubs or grow bags work great!
For Fruit Trees (lime, guava, papaya, bunga kantan):
- Pot size: 24 inches or larger, depending on tree
- Why: Shallow pots = stunted tree
- Tip: Choose a plastic or clay pot with strong base support
🍯 Rule #2: Material Makes a Difference
Different materials affect drainage, heat, and plant health.
🏺 Clay/Terracotta Pots
- Looks great, very breathable
- Best for herbs and flowers
- Downside: Can dry out fast in Malaysia’s heat
🪵 Ceramic Pots
- Pretty & heavy = stable
- Best for decorative plants indoors
- Downside: Often lacks drainage holes
🪣 Plastic Pots
- Cheap, light, holds water well
- Best for most edible plants
- Downside: Can get hot in sun, may crack over time
🛍️ Fabric Grow Bags
- Breathable, prevents root binding
- Best for root veggies & balcony gardens
- Downside: Need saucers or trays underneath
♻️ Upcycled Options (paint pails, buckets, baskets)
- Budget-friendly & creative
- Great for chillies, pandan, or lemongrass
- Downside: Must drill your own drainage holes!
💧 Rule #3: Drainage Is Non-Negotiable
If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes… don’t even bother.
Standing water = soggy soil = fungal disaster 🌧️👎
✅ Always check for at least 3–5 small holes at the bottom
✅ If DIY-ing a pot, drill holes or punch them using a hot metal rod
Want extra drainage? Add small stones or gravel at the base.
🎨 Rule #4: Function Meets Aesthetic
Your pot is not just a container — it’s part of your home’s vibe.
- Want a clean modern look? Go with black/white grow bags or ceramic planters
- Prefer a cottagecore aesthetic? Use terracotta and baskets
- Going for urban jungle? Mix hanging pots, trailing vines & wall-mounted containers
✅ Try grouping different pot sizes together for depth and visual interest
🧠 Rule #5: Think Long-Term Growth
Some plants will outgrow their pots in 3 months. Others take years.
Make sure your pot has room for root expansion — otherwise you’ll get rootbound plants (where roots coil tightly and stop absorbing nutrients).
✅ If unsure, go one size bigger than your current plant size
✅ Repot every 6–12 months for veggies and herbs
🪴 HARVEST RECOMMENDS:
| Plant Type | Recommended Pot Type |
|---|---|
| Mint & Basil | Terracotta pot (8”) |
| Chillies | 12” Plastic or Ceramic |
| Ginger/Turmeric | 20” Fabric Grow Bag |
| Lemongrass | Large Plastic Tub or Reused Pail |
| Pandan | Rectangular Cement Pot (for support) |
| Curry Leaf Tree | Deep Plastic Pot with Drainage |
| Tomatoes | Heavy ceramic to prevent toppling |
📍 Where to Buy Pots in Malaysia?
- Budget Options: Shopee, Mr. DIY, Eco Shop, Kedai RM2
- Premium Looks: IKEA, Kaison, Lazada Mall
- Local Nurseries: Best for cement pots, recycled tubs & advice
✅ Support your local nursery — and don’t forget to ask if they’ll drill drainage holes for you
📸 Show Us Your Perfect Pots!
Did you match your pot perfectly to your plant? Or maybe you repurposed a plastic paint bucket into a chili pot?
📷 Tag us at @projectharvest.my and share your proud pot-pairing moment!
We’ll repost our favourites and give your green space a shoutout! 💚