How do you keep planters clean?

If you’ve accumulated a large collection of used flowerpots and planters, you’re probably thinking about reusing them for your next batch of container gardening. This is a great way to be frugal while still keeping up a lush and varied plant collection but reusing containers can be a problem unless you clean them. It’s important to clean any pots that you are reusing in order to rid them of disease spores, salt deposits, and pest eggs. Take those extra few minutes to do it right! Here’s how to quickly clean and disinfect your pots.

How to Clean and Disinfect Plastic and Glazed Ceramic Pots

Both plastic and glazed ceramic pots are non-porous making them relatively easy to clean.  To disinfect the pots, start by using a brush or rag to remove all the loose soil particles. Then wash pots in soapy water (dish detergent works great) and rinse clean. Soak the container in a solution containing one part household bleach to nine parts water for a minimum of 10 minutes and rinse.

Mineral deposits can frequently form around the upper inside rim of the pot near the soil line.   Remove this mineral deposit from plastic or glazed ceramic pots with a scouring pad. Tough-to-remove deposits can be scraped away with a knife. Smooth any rough edges with steel wool. Rinse the pot and it is ready for reuse.

How to Clean Terracotta and Clay Pots

To disinfect the pots, start by using a brush or rag to remove all the loose soil particles.  Then wash pots in soapy water (dish detergent works great) and rinse clean. Soak the container in a solution containing one part household bleach to nine parts water for a minimum of 10 minutes and rinse.

Both terracotta and clay pots are porous and often mineral deposits are located all over the container.  To clean clay pots use steel wool or a wire-bristle brush to remove mineral deposits and other debris. If mineral deposits remain, use a knife to scrape them off. Rinse pots thoroughly and soak them in a bucket of clean water until you are ready to use them. Dry clay pots can wick moisture away from the potting medium dehydrating newly potted plants.

Storing Containers and Pots

When the pots are dry, stack and store them.

Plastic pots can be stored outside, but make sure they are covered and out of direct sunlight. Sunlight degrades the plastic over time, making it brittle and causing colored pots to fade.

Store clay and ceramic pots inside. Since unglazed clay is porous, it can absorb moisture; the freezing and thawing of winter can cause the pots to crack. If stacking ceramic pots, wrap them in newspaper to cushion them and prevent chipping. Even glazed pots can crack if left outside in freezing weather. These pots can be pricey, so it is best to take good care of them! If you cherish yours, bring them inside along with any other types of glass or ceramic yard art.