The earthenware vases are ideal for cultivating your outdoor plants: they help to keep the roots fresh even on the most torrid days. But why does this material difference? And how to use it best?
When we talk about growing healthy and luxuriant plants, the material of the pot is not a secondary detail at all. Indeed, it can make a huge difference, although often underestimated it. The coccio, or terracotta that you want, is one of those materials that continue to say their year after year. Beautiful, of course, but also full of quality that do not immediately jump to the eye. Those who have already tried to use plastic vessels in full sun know well what happens: the soil becomes hot, the water evaporates within a few hours and the roots begin to suffer. After all, it takes little to change the situation: a different vase, a more suitable material, and the plants begin to react immediately better.
And then the question arises: what really is behind the success of the coccio vessels when it comes to fighting the heat? Discovering it can make the difference before choosing the next container.
Because the cocci vessels defend the roots from the heat
The fascinating thing of the terracotta is that it behaves almost like a second skin for plants. It is porous, breathes, lets the excess humidity out and keeps the temperature stable inside. A definitely different behavior from that of plastic, which holds heat like a pot under the lid. The result? Steam cooked roots. The coccio instead absorbs part of the humidity and regulates the microclimate of the soil, as if it had a natural way to take care of the plants. In the height of summer, when the asphalt burns and the water evaporates within an hour, a terracotta vase manages to keep the heat under control, like a sort of thermal shield.
And in addition to the functional side, it must be said that these vases also have their timeless charm. They integrate perfectly between plants, flowers, stones and wood, giving that rustic touch that also transforms a simple balcony into a cover corner.
When it is really convenient to use them (and some limit to consider)
Of course, there is no perfect vase for every occasion. But in some situations, it is clear that terracotta plays a leading role. Its characteristics make it suitable for contexts in which other materials struggle. To think that any vase is enough can be a mistake, especially if you grow more sensitive plants. And then, let’s face it: a cocci vase also has that more something that captures the look. It is really worth understanding when using it.
- Terraces exposed to the sun for most of the day
- Gardens in regions with very hot summers
- Aromatic plants such as rosemary, sage or thyme
- Plants that easily suffer excess humidity
- Natural or organic style crops, which require breathable materials
It must be said, however, that some small flaws has it. The coccio is heavier, therefore not always comfortable to move. And if it falls, well … often it is not saved. In addition, it absorbs a lot of water: this means that, in summer, irrigations must be followed with a little more attention. But after all, if you are looking for the well -being of plants, it is certainly worth considering it.
Do you want healthier and resistant plants? The right vase is the first step
It is often thought that water and sun enough to have happy plants. But that’s not exactly the case. The vase also has its weight, all right. And the earthenware vases, in their silence, do a precious job. They offer stability, perspiration and that microclimate that the roots adore.
After all, the roots are like the hidden engine of each plant. If they are fine, everything else follows. Why then risk with containers who overheat or retain too much humidity? Better to focus on a material that works in tune with nature.
Trying nothing costs: just move a plant to a crock pot and observe how it reacts.
Sometimes, the smaller changes are those that give the most surprising results.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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