How to Cut Plastic Plant Pots

Plant pots enhance the beauty of our homes since they add a touch of natural splendor. The color and variety of plants in the pot give your home the charm it needs. To ensure your plants thrive and remain healthy, you may need to repot them occasionally. Plastic pots are a favorite of many gardeners due to their durability, cost-effectiveness, and availability. However, you will need to cut them to improve the drainage or make room for the plant's growing root system. In this article, we will guide you through the procedure of cutting plastic plant pots.

Tools you will need

To cut a plastic plant pot, you will require the following tools:

A pair of scissors

A utility knife

A marker pen

A ruler

Ensure the scissors and knife are sharp for an easy and accurate cut.

Steps to follow

Clean the pot: Before cutting the pot, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris, which may mess the cut. Cleaning ensures the pot is well-prepared for the process.

Mark the cutting line: Using a marker pen and ruler, mark a straight line on the pot's surface, where you intend to cut. Ensure the line is consistently parallel to the pot's surface.

Cut along the line: Hold the pot firmly and use the utility knife or scissors to cut through the pot following the marked line. Use as much force as needed, but be cautious not to injure yourself with the utility knife.

Sand the edges: Once you have cut the pot, the edges are likely to be rough or sharp. Use sandpaper to smoothen the edges and avoid injuring yourself. Ensure you hold the pot firmly and sand towards the opposite direction of the cut's angle.

Clean the pot after cutting: After cutting and sanding the pot, clean it again to remove any debris and sanitize it before placing the plant inside.

Things to avoid when cutting plastic plant pots

When cutting plastic plant pots, avoid the following:

Avoid using an electric saw or any other sharp tool to cut the pot. These tools are likely to damage the pot or cause injury to yourself.

Avoid using excessive force since it can damage the pot or cause injuries to you.

Avoid cutting the pot on an uneven or unstable surface since it can make the pot wobble, causing the cut to be uneven.

Conclusion

Cutting plastic plant pots is not rocket science, but it requires adequate preparation and a few tools. Always ensure the pot is clean and marked correctly before cutting it. Using the right tools is crucial, and avoid using the wrong ones or applying excessive force. Once cut, sand the pot's edges and clean it again before placing the plant inside. With these simple steps, you can improve the drainage or create more space for your plant's growing root system.