Plant pot sizes chart​ : guide to choose the best pot for your crop

If you’re growing marijuana, you know that choosing the right pot and tray is a key factor in the success of your grow. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is best for you? That’s where a plant pot sizes chart becomes essential — it’s a crucial tool for selecting the perfect size based on the type of plant and its growth stage. In this guide, we’ll help you understand how to choose the ideal pot based on your plant’s size, growth phase, and the type of growing medium you use.

Why is it important to understand pot sizes?

Cannabis has specific needs when it comes to space and growing conditions. Plastic plant pots are among the most common for cannabis cultivation because they’re lightweight, affordable, and easy to handle. However, not all pots are created equal. Understanding plant pot sizes is key to making sure your plants have the room they need to develop a strong root system.

A pot that’s too small can restrict root growth, while one that’s too large may lead to poor drainage and slow development. That’s why it’s crucial to choose pots designed for proper root development that match your cannabis plant’s size and stage of life, ensuring optimal growth.

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Plant pot sizes chart for cannabis: how to choose the right one based on plant size

A plant pot sizes chart is an excellent tool to determine the ideal pot size based on the height and development of your cannabis plants. Below, you’ll find a reference guide to help you pick the perfect pot:

Cannabis Plant Height	Recommended Pot Size
Between 4 in and 12 in (10–30 cm)	1-liter pot (0.26 gallons)
Between 12 in and 20 in (30–50 cm)	3-liter pot (0.8 gallons)
Between 20 in and 31 in (50–80 cm)	7-liter pot (1.8 gallons)
Between 31 in and 39 in (80–100 cm)	11-liter pot (2.9 gallons)
Between 39 in and 51 in (100–130 cm)	18-liter pot (4.8 gallons)
Between 51 in and 63 in (130–160 cm)	25-liter pot (6.6 gallons)
Between 63 in and 79 in (160–200 cm)	50-liter pot (13.2 gallons)

Keep in mind that this is just a general guide. You can always adjust the pot size based on the specific needs of your cannabis grow and the space available.

Guide to choosing the right pot size for cannabis

To determine whether a pot size is suitable for your cannabis plants, you’ll need to consider the plant’s height, the root system size, and the current growth stage:

• If your plant is in the vegetative stage, it will require a larger pot as it grows.
• During the flowering stage, you should choose a pot that’s large enough to let the roots continue growing freely without becoming root-bound.

Also, make sure your pot has a good number of drainage holes. Standing water can suffocate roots and lead to rot, so proper drainage is crucial for a successful cannabis grow.

Key factors to consider when choosing a plant pot

Picking the right pot for growing cannabis isn’t just about size or looks. Elements like material, drainage, and volume all play a crucial role in root health—and by extension, plant growth and yield. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors to consider before choosing the type of pot you need.

Size

Pot size is critical, as it determines how much space the roots have. If your pot is too small, the roots will get tangled and restrict plant development. Too large, and the substrate might retain too much water, leading to drainage problems.

• Seedling stage: Small pots (1 to 3 liters) are ideal since the root system is just beginning to form.
• Vegetative stage: As the plant grows, move it to a medium-sized pot (5–7 liters) to give roots more room to expand.
• Flowering stage: In this stage, a small pot can limit development. Larger pots (10–25 liters) provide enough room for the roots to support flowering efficiently.

Drainage

Drainage is key to avoiding water buildup at the bottom of the pot, which can cause root rot. Pots with multiple drainage holes allow water to flow out easily, helping keep your root zone healthy and well-aerated.

Material

The material of the pot affects drainage, moisture retention, and temperature regulation. Plastic pots tend to hold more moisture than fabric or clay pots. This can be useful in indoor grows but may require closer monitoring to avoid overwatering.

Types of pots for growing cannabis

There are several types of plant pots, each with unique features suited for different grow environments. To make the best choice, it’s essential to check the plant pot sizes chart shared above, since both size and material impact root development. Below are the most common types:

Plastic pots

Plastic cannabis pots are extremely popular among growers. They are lightweight, affordable, and long-lasting. Most importantly, they offer good drainage capacity, which is essential to prevent waterlogging and root diseases. However, make sure the pot you use has enough drainage holes at the bottom to ensure proper water flow.

Within the plastic pot category, you’ll find several subtypes:

Criteria	Subtype	Advantages	Disadvantages	Recommended Use
Color	White Pots	Ideal for hot climates or outdoor grows (prevent root overheating).	Less effective at retaining heat in cold climates.	Outdoors, high sun exposure areas.
	Black Pots	Retain heat; useful in cold environments or to speed up growth indoors.	Risk of overheating roots in warm climates or outdoors.	Indoor grows, cold climates, early vegetative stage.
Shape	Tall Pots	Encourage deep root growth, improve vertical drainage, ideal for taproot plants.	Take up more vertical space; less efficient in compact grow setups.	Large outdoor photoperiod plants.
	Square Pots	Maximize space (fit better in SOG/SCROG setups), higher plant density per m².	Less depth for long roots (depending on model).	Indoor grows, small spaces, SOG techniques.

Fabric pots (smart pots)

Fabric pots are extremely popular among cannabis growers, especially for indoor setups. These pots offer excellent drainage and promote a healthier root system by preventing root binding and enhancing oxygen flow. Fabric plant pots are also ideal for small grow spaces and are reusable, making them a sustainable option.

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Grid pots (Air pots)

Air Pots, or grid pots, are highly effective for growing cannabis because they offer superior root aeration. These containers help the roots grow outward instead of circling, promoting healthier development. They’re especially useful for indoor cannabis grows by improving drainage and preventing root overgrowth.

Clay or ceramic pots

Clay or ceramic pots are excellent for growing cannabis due to their natural ability to regulate soil temperature, keeping roots cool. However, these pots are typically heavier and more fragile, making them less ideal for small indoor setups. They’re better suited for outdoor cannabis cultivation where temperature and drainage control are key.

When to transplant into a bigger pot?

Knowing when to transplant your marijuana plants into a larger pot is crucial to avoid root binding or stagnation. Here are some signs that it’s time to upsize:

• Roots coming out of the drainage holes.
• Stunted or slow growth even with proper care.
• Soil dries out too quickly, indicating roots have filled the pot and there’s no space for water retention.

Pot tips for hydroponic cannabis grows

If you’re growing cannabis in a hydroponic system, pots serve less as soil containers and more as a support structure for the plant and roots. The pots need to be large enough for root expansion while staying lightweight and offering optimal water flow. Plastic pots with plenty of drainage holes are commonly used in hydro systems.

Pot maintenance tips

To ensure your pots last longer and continue to function properly:

• Cleaning: Always clean your pots after each grow cycle to avoid salt buildup, fungi, and bacteria.
• Replace damaged pots: If your plastic or clay pot cracks or breaks, replace it immediately to maintain proper drainage and stability.

Choosing the right pot is essential for a successful cannabis grow. Whether you use plastic, fabric, clay, or Air Pots, make sure it fits your grow style and conditions. Use the plant pot sizes chart to guide your decision. With the right pot, your plants will grow stronger and your harvest will be more abundant.