How to Treat an Evergreen in a Clay Pot

Clay pots are made from natural materials and are quite porous. The advantage is that plants are not easily waterlogged. However, they can quickly become dry. Keep this in mind, especially when evergreens are planted in them. Most evergreens need extra water during the winter months and do not tolerate drought well. When growing evergreens in pots, follow the growing conditions for the plant species, such as location, soil type and fertilizer requirements. Making a few amendments keeps them strong in their containers.

Mulch
Straw
Pot
Potting soil

Instructions

- 1
  Mulch the soil thoroughly with an organic mulch of wood chips or bark. Use 1 to 2 inches of mulch on each pot to retain moisture and keep the soil warm. Replenish the mulch as needed, as it decays with time.
- 2
  Water the evergreen more often than you would if it were in the ground. Clay pots are porous and dry out more quickly, so frequent watering is necessary. Water the plants thoroughly and more frequently before the winter months so they don't become dry while dormant.
- 3
  Move the potted evergreen into one sheltered location before the winter starts. Surround the area with a thick bed of straw for insulation. The potted plant's roots of are more susceptible to frost than those in the ground are, so they need extra protection.
- 4
  Repot the evergreens as needed. Watch for roots coming out the top of the pot or through the drain holes in the bottom. Use the best soil available for the type of evergreen you are planting and choose a pot that is at least 2 inches larger than the current one.

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