I’m looking to upsize some of my larger indoor plants and I’m considering switching to coir pots. Currently, I have a few medium-sized houseplants that are outgrowing their plastic pots, and I want to give them more room to thrive. My experience has mostly been with standard plastic pots, so this is my first foray into coir. I’ve seen different sizes and types of coir pots available, but I’m unsure about what size would best accommodate the root systems of larger plants like my rubber tree and fiddle leaf fig. Can anyone share their experiences with sizing? What do you think is the ideal pot size for these types of plants in coir?
Hello there! I’m thrilled to hear about your decision to upsize your larger indoor plants and switch to coir pots. As someone deeply committed to sustainable practices and organic gardening, I can assure you that coir pots are an excellent choice for both plant health and environmental benefits.
When it comes to determining the right size of coir pots for your rubber tree (Ficus elastica) and fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata), it’s essential to consider their growth habits and root systems. Generally, larger indoor plants require a pot that can accommodate their roots while providing ample room for growth.
### Ideal Pot Size
For your rubber tree, which can grow quite large and has a robust root system, I recommend starting with a pot that is at least **12 to 14 inches in diameter**. If your plant is significantly root-bound in its current pot, you might even consider going up to **16 inches**. This will give the roots the space they need to spread out and enable the plant to thrive.
For your fiddle leaf fig, which is known for its broad leaves and can also grow tall, a pot size of **12 to 14 inches** is also ideal. If your plant is larger than average or has a dense root system, a **16-inch pot** would be more suitable.
### Pot Depth and Considerations
In addition to diameter, depth is equally important. Both of these plants benefit from deeper pots since they develop a significant root system. Coir pots generally provide adequate depth, typically around 12 inches or more, which should suffice.
### Benefits of Coir Pots
Coir pots are biodegradable, which means that over time, they will decompose and add organic matter to the soil, contributing to a healthier growing environment. They also allow for excellent air circulation and drainage, reducing the risk of root rot, which is particularly important for plants like fiddle leaf figs that can be prone to this issue if overwatered.
### Transitioning Tips
As you transfer your plants to their new coir pots, here are a few practical tips:
1. **Watering**: Coir retains moisture well, so be attentive to your watering schedule. Ensure you allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again.
2. **Soil Mixture**: Consider using a well-draining potting mix combined with coir. Adding perlite will enhance aeration and drainage, which is beneficial for both plants.
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