Today we will be talking about Fabric Grow Pots & Containers, Why they are the Right way of Growing Plants, & why, if your plants are going to be in a Pot it must be a fabric one!
What is a Fabric Pot or Container -
Fabric Pots or Containers are designed to air prunes your roots for stronger, healthier plants. These are perfect for those who want the best for their plants. Air root pruning forces your roots to branch out, resulting in more fibrous feeder roots that are better at taking up water and nutrients. This results in stronger, healthier plants that are more resilient and better able to withstand stress and pests. These Pots are made from high-quality BPA free breathable materials, usually double layer polypropylene. This material is a soft felt like texture similar to a landscaping fabric and its designed to last, so you can enjoy healthy plants for years to come.
Advantages Using Fabric Pots or Containers Rather than normal plastic Pots -
Fabric Pots or Containers enable air root pruning, which helps the roots reach the edge of the container and naturally self-prune, how this works is the roots slowing make their way to the edge of the container, then sticking through the fibre container they are exposed to air, due to the fact they cannot survive in air alone, they self prune, which causes the root systems to divide over and over again which cause a more healthy lateral branching fibrous feeder Root system, which are more productive in the uptake of water and nutrients. The fibres allow air to pass through aerating the whole pot, Ultimately, this leads to healthier plants that utilize the entire root zone for optimal growth. Where as plastic containers don’t allow enough aeration & oxygen, & once the main tap root reaches the edge of the container, it has no where else to go so it just wraps around the edge of the container & becomes root bound, with no chance to branch & create more feeder roots. Plastic containers do have holes in the bottom, but they are only for drainage & don’t allow much aeration, and often these holes just causes the soil to wash through whilst watering.
Is watering required more regularly than with plastic pots -
Yes, watering will be required slightly more regularly than plastic pots due to airflow & drainage, but with that another key benefit would be a less chance of root rot due to the aeration & drainage.
Indoor Gardening -
Looking to get into indoor gardening or you already are, then Fabric Pots are a must! These are perfect for use in ebb-and-flow Hydroponic systems, as they allow oxygenation to the roots and help to minimise clogging. Plus, they make a great addition to any hydro system, ensuring that your plants always have access to the water and nutrients they need.
Drainage Advantages -
When it comes to healthy plants, proper drainage is key. Clay and plastic planters are prone to poor drainage which could lead to rot setting in, plants drowning or dying, mold growth, diseases, or pest infestations. Fabric Pots ensure that your plants will get the drainage they need to stay healthy and thrive. Due to these pots being made from lightweight materials that allow excess water to drain away, while also preventing soil from being washed away. The fabric wicks moisture from the sides and bottom of the pot, keeping the soil perfectly moist, never wet.
Keeping The temperature Right -
Plants need to regulate heat, otherwise their roots become vulnerable to heat stress. Heat stress occurs when roots are exposed to heat buildup and poor drainage. Soil temperature rises during the hot summer months, and as it does, the plant roots heat up. If plants are potted and the planter material is not allowing heat to escape, roots can "cook" from the inside out. That's where temperature comes in, Fabric Pots help to regulate soil temperature so that your plants can thrive no matter how hot it gets outside. Don't let the summer heat ruin your plants.
Storing Fabric Pots when not in use -
once your plant has been removed from your Fabric Pot or container, dry the pot out, then gently brush off any left over soil & roots, rub the sides of the pot together to clean the interior. When dry & clean, the pot can be folded up & stored in a dry place like a garden shed until needed for the next growing cycle.
How to set up a fabric pot -
When setting up your Fabric pot always keep in mind how big you are expecting your plant to be & choose your pot size carefully to suit, Another advantage of Fabric Pots is they are easy to move around as your Plants grow in size & are also easy to upgrade to a larger pot if needed. As for Potting your Plants, it is crucial to select the Correct growing medium, always select what is best for your plant & climate in which you will be growing in, whether it may be a premium potting soil, Vermiculite, coco etc.
Now for the fun stuff!
We will now show you the best fabric Pots on the market & explain everything there is to know about them.
Geopot -
Geopot launched their business in Sonoma County, California in 2009 with a mission to provide a durable, reliable fabric pot for growers. The original design was so popular that they expanded their product line to include a variety of solutions to meet the needs of the customers. All of the products are hand-sewn with the highest quality materials, so you can be confident that your plants will thrive. Whether you're looking for a pot to help with drainage, aeration, or even root training, you'll find a geopot to suit your pants needs have just what you need.
What are Geopots Made out of -
Geopots are made from UV-treated polypropylene geotextile fabric, marine grade stitching for added durability. All materials are chemically stable and inert, making them safe for organic gardening. Plus, they are BPA and heavy metal-free, so you can be confident that your plants are getting the best possible care. By using a GeoPot, you can trust that your plants will thrive.
What is the lifespan on my Geopot -
The Lifespan of the Geopot is generally around 5 or 6 grow cycles, when looked after & cleaned when not being used.
Styles of Geopots -
Geopot -
These pots are made with a signature fabric and novel construction that promotes water and nutrient uptake, resulting in rapid yield and plant development. Perfect for use during each growth cycle, Geopots are an essential tool for any serious gardener or farmer.
G-Lite -
This pot is constructed of a slightly thinner fabric than our standard GeoPot, making it more budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or durability. The seams are double-stitched for strength, and the pot features optional handles to make it easy to move your plants around. The square bottom ensures efficient use of space in your grow area.
Geoplanter -
This fabric planter is framed with PVC to give you a sturdy structure that will last. The breathable fabric construction allows for air root pruning, which encourages roots to branch out with more fibrous feeder roots. This leads to improved yields and healthier plants. The GeoPlanter’s fabric is UV stabilized for years of use in direct sunlight and requires no tools for assembly. With its many benefits, It can be used outside or in greenhouses with a flood tray and rolling bench systems, allowing for full utilization of the growing space.
Geopot Transplanter -
A Pot Designed for safely Transplanting your plants -
Geopot has designed the perfect solution for transplanting your plants with ease! Most Growers out there would know that transplanting your plants from one pot to another can affect & shock even the healthiest of Plants. Geopot has designed this Product to try & illuminate some of the stress from the plant. This is called the Transplanter pot, it has a Velcro seam that runs the whole way down the pot, by opening this it allows you to remove the plant without digging down through the root system too much. If you have intentions of starting the plants in smaller pots, then transplanting them to bigger pots later, we highly recommend the Transplanter pots!
Summary -
So if you looking to get the absolute most out of your plants and wanting to assure they are kept stress free throughout their growing cycle, then you cannot look past Fabric Pots & Containers. Whether your a beginner or experienced grower then these pots are suitable for you, not to mention their affordable cost. Now get growing & enjoy!