The Household Garden Blog

Concrete pots, explained: the honest guide to read before you buy

Everything a careful buyer wants to know about hand-cast concrete pots before spending on one: cracking, weight, drainage, size, finishes, care and what to plant.

Large garden pots: how to choose, fill, move and plant a big pot

A practical guide to choosing, placing, filling, planting, watering and moving a large garden pot, with frost and cracking advice for South African conditions.

Concrete vs plastic vs fibreglass vs terracotta pots: which lasts in South Africa?

A frank comparison of terracotta, plastic, fibreglass and concrete pots in South African sun, wind and frost, with a clear recommendation for each situation.

How to plant a concrete pot so it drains well and lasts

How to plant a concrete pot so it drains well and never sits in water, with the evidence on drainage layers, pot feet and the right potting mix.