5 important differences between growing in a pot or in the ground
When we get ready to grow plants, we may wonder if we grow them in a pot or directly in the ground.
Although it seems to us that growth and development will be the same in one place as in another, the reality is that the more space the roots have, the better the plant will grow. But why?
As there are several reasons, below, we will tell you the 5 important differences between growing in a pot or the ground so that you have no doubts when choosing where to plant your plant.
The first difference between growing in a pot or in the ground is the development of the plant. Regardless of whether we water and fertilize it regularly, the potted plant will not reach the size that it would reach in the ground due to its internal mechanism to maintain a balance between its roots and its leaves.
And it is that having small roots absorbs fewer nutrients and, therefore, growth will be less.
Protection against cold and heat
The pots, especially the plastic ones, get cold and warm much faster than the soil, damaging the roots. Therefore, if we choose to grow the plants in containers, we have to protect them, if necessary, from cold and/or heat.
For example: if we have just acquired a plant and it is autumn, the ideal thing would be to protect the pot with a thermal gardening blanket or place it inside the home.
Although it is true that if we grow a plant in a pot of the right size for it, it does not have to have any growth problems.
the truth is that if we plant it directly in the ground, it will “feel more comfortable.” Its roots will grow everything they need without being limited by space, which will serve to strengthen the plant.
Water and nutrient reserves
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The soil can recover the nutrients lost thanks to the regular contribution of compost, but also, its capacity to retain a large amount of water is much greater than that of the potting soil.
Therefore, if we decide to grow the plants in containers, we will have to water and fertilize much more often.
The Last difference between growing in a pot or in the ground is the Loss of nutrients of the plant. The substrate that we put in the pots loses its nutrients with each watering since this is when the roots can absorb them. As time goes by, this soil becomes so worn that it serves the plant only as a support. Therefore, it is essential to fertilize throughout the growing season (spring and summer).
