How to Measure Pots and Saucers for Indoor Plants

When it comes to purchasing pots and saucers for indoor plants, it’s important to measure them properly to ensure the right fit. Measuring may seem like a simple task, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could result in an ill-fitting pot or saucer. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to measure pots and saucers for indoor plants.

Measuring Pots

Before measuring your pots, be sure to empty the soil and any plant matter from it. Start by measuring the diameter of the pot at the top rim. This is the widest point of the pot, and it’s crucial to ensure that the saucer is larger than this measurement to catch any water that may overflow from watering. If the pot has a taper, measure both the top and bottom diameters to ensure you choose the right-sized saucer.

The next step is to measure the height of the pot, which will help you determine the depth of the saucer needed. Measure from the base of the pot to the top rim, and then add an inch or two to this measurement to ensure the plant pot fits comfortably in the saucer. This will also provide enough room for any water that is drained from the pot.

Measuring Saucers

When measuring a saucer, you’ll want to be sure to select one that’s slightly larger than the pot to ensure it can catch any runoff water. Start by measuring the diameter of the saucer. This measurement should be taken from the widest point of the saucer. If the saucer is not circular in shape, measure the widest points, which could be the length and width for rectangular saucers, for example.

The next step is to measure the depth of the saucer. This will depend on the height of the pot. As mentioned earlier, add an inch or two to the height of the pot to get the depth of the saucer needed. This will ensure that the pot fits comfortably in the saucer, and it will be deep enough to catch any excess water from the pot.

Other Considerations

While measuring the pots and saucers is essential, there are other factors to consider when selecting the right pot and saucer combination. It’s important to choose the right type of pot material for your plant’s needs. For example, terracotta pots are breathable and better suited for plants that need a drier environment. On the other hand, plastic pots offer more drainage options, making them ideal for plants that need more water.

You should also consider the weight of the pot and saucer. Keep in mind that as the plant grows and the pot gets heavier, it becomes more challenging to move it around. So, if you plan on moving the pot around, you may wish to choose a lighter material like plastic.

Conclusion

Measuring the pots and saucers for your indoor plants is an essential step in promoting healthy plant growth. Be sure to accurately measure the diameter and height of both the pot and saucer and consider other factors like pot material and weight when making your purchase. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to having beautiful, healthy indoor plants in the right-sized pots and saucers.