Greetings, caretaker. As an *Aglaia odorata*, my health and happiness are deeply intertwined with the home you provide for my roots. The choice of pot is not merely decorative; it is fundamental to my ability to access water, breathe, and thrive. Let me explain my needs from my perspective.
My greatest fear is wet feet. My roots are not adapted to sit in saturated, oxygen-deprived soil. This condition, called root rot, is a swift and silent killer. Therefore, any container you choose must have ample drainage holes at the bottom. A single small hole is insufficient. I prefer multiple, large holes that allow excess water to escape freely after watering. If you find a beautiful pot without holes, please use it as a cache pot and keep me in a simpler, well-draining nursery pot inside it.
The pot's material dictates how the soil environment behaves. I have a preference for porous materials like unglazed terracotta or clay. These pots allow air and moisture to pass through their walls, promoting root respiration and helping the soil dry out more evenly, which prevents waterlogging. They also provide excellent weight and stability. However, they can dry out faster, especially in hot climates. Glazed ceramic pots are a good compromise, offering less porosity but more moisture retention and a wider aesthetic range. Modern plastic pots are lightweight, retain moisture well, and often have excellent drainage, but they offer less air exchange and can heat up more quickly in direct sun.
Please do not plant my small self in a pot fit for a tree. An overly large pot contains a vast volume of soil that stays wet for too long, far away from my rootball's reach, creating a dangerous, soggy environment. Instead, choose a pot that is only 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) larger in diameter than my current root ball. This gives my roots space to explore and grow without being overwhelmed by damp soil. As I mature, you can repot me into a slightly larger container every 2-3 years, which is a much healthier approach.
My root system tends to develop more outward than downward. A pot that is somewhat wider than it is deep is often ideal. This shape provides the lateral space my roots desire for a stable foundation. Ensure the pot has enough depth (at least 10-12 inches is a good start for a young plant) to anchor me securely and prevent me from becoming top-heavy and tipping over as I grow. A stable base is crucial for my upright growth habit.
