From our perspective as Orchid Cacti (Epiphyllum), our roots are not like those of ground-dwelling plants. We are epiphytes, naturally growing in the crooks of trees where our root systems are confined and exposed to air. A pot that is too large is problematic for us. Excess soil retains water for far too long, creating a soggy environment that our roots cannot tolerate. This leads to root rot, a primary cause of our decline. A snug pot, only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current root ball, is ideal. This constriction mimics our natural habitat, encourages healthy root development without excess, and allows the growing medium to dry out appropriately between waterings, which is crucial for our survival.
Our roots demand excellent drainage and ample oxygen. Therefore, the single most important feature of any pot you choose is a drainage hole. Without it, water pools at the bottom, saturating the medium and suffocating our roots, leading to their inevitable rot. A pot must provide an escape route for excess water. Furthermore, the material of the pot influences aeration. Porous materials like unglazed terracotta are excellent choices from our point of view. They allow water to evaporate through the pot's walls, helping the medium dry out more evenly and reducing the risk of overwatering. While plastic or glazed ceramic pots retain moisture longer, they can be used if you are exceptionally careful with your watering routine.
Our root systems tend to be relatively shallow and spread out horizontally rather than digging deep vertically. A deep pot presents a problem: the lower portion of the soil, far from our roots and surface air, remains wet long after the top has dried out. This creates a perpetually damp zone that can harm the roots that do reach down there. Therefore, a shallower pot, often called a "azalea" or "pan" pot, is frequently a better fit for us than a standard deep pot. This shape provides ample width for our roots to spread naturally without the danger of a deep, water-logged base, creating a more consistent moisture environment throughout the entire root zone.
As we mature, our stems become long, fleshy, and can become quite heavy. A small, lightweight plastic pot may become physically unstable, risking toppling over and damaging our stems. While the root system prefers a snug home, the pot must also provide enough base weight or a wide enough footprint to counterbalance our top-heavy growth. A heavier terracotta pot naturally provides this stability. If you choose a lighter material, you may need to place it within a heavier decorative cachepot or ensure the pot's base is sufficiently broad to support our sprawling habit without tipping.
