Why Terracotta Pots are a Great Planting Choice During Summer Heatwaves
Mud Mountain Blog
Keeping your garden thriving in extreme summer heat can be challenging, especially when temperatures soar for days at a time. But with the right care and a few simple techniques, you can keep both your plants and terracotta pots in excellent condition through even the hottest weeks of summer.
Choose the right pots for hot weather
Terracotta is naturally breathable and keeps roots cool
One of the best choices for hot weather gardening is a terracotta pot, particularly when it’s handmade using high-quality clay. Mud Mountain’s collection is crafted from Galestro clay, found only in Tuscany. This dense, mineral-rich clay is naturally porous, which means it allows air to flow through and moisture to evaporate gradually.
These qualities help regulate soil temperature and prevent roots from overheating – especially important during a heatwave when synthetic pots can trap heat and damage delicate root systems.
Terracotta’s breathability also helps prevent water from pooling at the bottom of containers, reducing the risk of root rot, even with frequent watering.
Water deeply and consistently
Soil dries faster in extreme heat
During hot spells, container plants lose water quickly, especially when placed in direct sun. Shallow watering won’t be enough. Aim for a deep, slow soak early in the morning or late in the evening. This gives the water time to reach the root zone before it evaporates.
Check moisture levels daily. Push a finger a couple of inches into the soil – if it’s dry, it’s time to water again. Avoid midday watering, as it evaporates too fast to benefit your plants.
Terracotta pots are forgiving in summer heat. Their porous surface allows any excess water to escape, helping maintain a healthy moisture balance inside the container.
Move pots to shadier areas
Protect roots from scorching midday sun
Even the toughest Mediterranean plants can suffer under relentless sun. If your terracotta pots are portable, shift them into partial shade during the hottest part of the day. The shade from a tree, pergola or even a parasol can dramatically reduce stress on both the pot and the plant.
Larger planters like the Cubo Grande are ideal for this approach. Their solid, wide form sits neatly against walls or along paths, giving you flexibility to create shaded areas with minimal disruption to your garden layout.
Mulch to keep moisture in
A layer of mulch helps soil stay cool and moist
Adding a thick layer of organic mulch on top of the soil is a simple but effective way to help your terracotta planters retain moisture. Mulch acts as a barrier, shielding the soil from direct sun and reducing evaporation. It also helps keep the roots insulated from rapid temperature swings.
Bark chips, composted straw, or even dried leaves can all do the job well. Combine this with deep watering and your plants will stay better hydrated for longer.
Water deeply and consistently
Soil dries faster in extreme heat
Small pots heat up faster and dry out quickly in the sun. Extra large terracotta pots with ample planting depth and surface area help maintain more stable soil conditions.
A good example is the Trombo, which offers a wide base and tall profile, making it perfect for larger shrubs or trees like camellia or fig. The extra volume holds more soil, reducing temperature fluctuations and giving roots room to breathe.
Consider grouping your pots together
Clustered pots create shade for one another
Grouping terracotta pots closely together has several benefits during hot weather. It creates pockets of shade, reduces airflow between containers, and helps shield root zones from direct sunlight. It’s also a visually pleasing way to design a courtyard or patio area.
A mix of pot shapes like the Toscano Classico Grande, Due Orli, and Cilindro Liscio adds texture and interest while helping plants protect each other from intense heat.
Don’t forget to care for the pots too
Even clay needs attention in extreme heat
While terracotta is resilient, extreme and prolonged heat can affect its surface. Avoid placing pots directly on hard surfaces like concrete or paving where heat reflects upwards. Use pot feet or risers to improve air circulation underneath.
After the summer, clean your pots with water and a soft brush to remove any mineral buildup from frequent watering. These simple steps will help preserve their appearance and performance season after season.
Plant smart for summer success
Use heat-tolerant plants with room to grow
Pairing the right plant with the right pot makes all the difference in a heatwave. Plants like bay, lavender, olive and rosemary are well-suited to terracotta pots and handle summer heat with ease. Choose a pot size that gives roots enough room and remember that underplanting with herbs or trailing flowers can provide additional shade and reduce moisture loss.
The Vaso Imprunetino, with its wide flared opening, is ideal for this kind of layered planting – a lemon tree in the centre, underplanted with thyme or trailing geraniums, creates a cooling microclimate within the pot.
Keep your garden cool and thrivings to shadier areas
Terracotta pots bring beauty and function together
Caring for your garden during extreme heat allows you to create a space that remains inviting and alive, even in high summer. Breathable, artisan-made terracotta pots help you do exactly that. With a little preparation and the right planting choices, you can enjoy a flourishing outdoor space that holds its charm, no matter how hot it gets.
To explore more summer-suitable pots, take a look at the full Mud Mountain collection.
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