Spring is here and the plants or flowers will be able to go outside again! For this, terracotta pots are ideal because they allow good regulation of water and air. They are also very pretty, even if they are a little heavier and more expensive than plastic pots. Finally, the choice of material for your flower pots is unique to each person. If you have decided to buy terracotta pots, then you will need to maintain them. Whether they are new or used, they must be taken care of to ensure they have a long lifespan. This includes good regular cleaning.
How to dust your terracotta flower pots?
Terracotta pots need to be cleaned, but before that, they need to be dusted and all dirt removed. Once you have completely emptied your pot, you will need a stiff-bristled brush. You can first soak your pot in lukewarm water or not, it’s your choice. Then gently scrub all parts of your pot until it is clean, inside and out. This is when you will really see the state of your pot. Is there limescale? Are there any stains? Is it damaged? If you plan to put new plants in it, you will definitely have to clean it even if it seems clean.
How to disinfect a terracotta pot?
It is recommended to disinfect terracotta pots to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and parasites between two plantings. For that, Jardiland And Truffaut, two specialty garden stores, recommend using bleach. Do not use pure bleach, but make a mixture with hot water and a small amount of bleach, then scrub your pot. Be careful, wear gloves. “If you want to disinfect small pots you can also put the mixture in a basin and immerse your pots in it for around 24 hours. Then rinse them thoroughly with clean water.“, specifies Jardiland.
How to clean and remove traces of limescale from a terracotta pot?
Once your pot is well disinfected and rinsed, you will need to remove any traces of limescale. For this, the ideal is to use white vinegar because it cleans, removes limescale and is safe for plants. To apply it, you can soak a sponge with white vinegar then rub on the stains until they disappear. All you have to do is rinse your pots. It is best to use demineralized water or rainwater. Finally, you must let your pot dry completely before using it again.