Best pot size for autoflowers?

You might consider the type or size of the container you use for growing cannabis as an afterthought. But, cannabis pot size and especially autoflower pot sizes play a crucial role in healthy optimal growth. Even the material of the pot can have a significant effect on your plant’s root health, and overall stability as it grows to full maturity. So here, we set out to answer the question – what size pot for autoflower cannabis plants is best, for ultimate success.

Why Pot Size Matters

Many growers choose to cultivate autoflowers for their small, stealthy size especially in comparison to regular photoperiod species. But, did you know – the autoflower pot size you use will affect the end-height and health of your plant? Because the roots are contained in your pot, the wrong size can affect your plant’s most important base. If you want to avoid restricted root growth, and stressing and stunting your plant, larger size pots are the way to go. Since autoflowers are also more susceptible to stress, it’s also key to choose your final size pot from the start to avoid repotting during its shorter than normal life cycle.

Best Pot  Sizes To Use

So, now that you know how cannabis pot sizes can affect overall growth – what size pot for autoflowers is best for you? Depending on your grow space, or personal desires for growth – you may choose a smaller autoflower pot size, or bigger, to begin with. We’ll breakdown the differences in both, below.

Smaller Pots – 6.5L – 8.5L (or 1.5 – 2 gallon)

If you have limited ceiling space, smaller pot sizes will restrict the height of your plant overall. Smaller pots also allow growers to fit more plants into smaller grow spaces, for maximized yields in a minimized space. Pots smaller in size can also be ideal for implementing the Sea of Green method.

Larger Pots – 10L – 15L (or 2.5 – 3 gallon)

If you’re not worried about plant heights, then bigger pots are ideal for optimal health and growth. Autoflower pot sizes of 10 – 15 L are ideal for allowing your crops to reach its maximum heights. When growing to the fullest, plants produce more branches which of course, equals bigger yields. However, don’t get caught thinking – the bigger the better. Pots any bigger than 15 L won’t produce any better of a crop, and you’ll just waste money on unused mediums.

Different Types of Pots

Gone are the days, where there’s only one type of pot to choose from, too. Beyond selecting a cannabis pot size, you’ll also need to decide what material or type of pot is best for you. Here’s the varied types to choose from, and a brief overview of their pro’s and con’s.

Plastic Pots

Plastic pots are the most widely available containers, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Being durable, and waterproof are pro’s of plastic pots as is their cost-effective prices. However, they can be less than ideal for durability, and struggle to provide airflow to the roots depending on the medium. 

Fabric Pots

Fabric pots are quickly gaining popularity across the growing scene for a variety of benefits. Most notably, the material allows higher flow of oxygen to the roots and allows for ‘air-pruning’ which helps avoid bound roots. On the ‘con’ side, fabric pots do dry out more quickly than others so a bigger autoflower pot size in fabric is recommended.

Air Pots

It’s no surprise that air pots also allow ample oxygen to the roots, for optimal growth. Air pots are also plastic, but have openings on the side unlike normal plastic pots. Their unique design supports air-pruning too, for the avoidance of root bound plants. Another advantage of air pots is their tall, and slender size. This allows more pots per space plus an ideal distribution of water and feed to the roots.

Clay Pots (Terracotta)

Terracotta or clay pots are the heaviest most durable pot of the bunch. One advantage of clay pots is their ability to absorb and store excess moisture, which helps with cooling the roots. While their heavy weight is an advantage for anchoring sturdy plants, it can cause moving plants to be quite the task. Their material also provides less than optimal drainage, and can be hard to drill holes into.

Wooden Pots

Wooden pots may look and seem cool, but are not ideal for growing cannabis plants. The containers are not only expensive, but provide poor drainage and are hard/heavy to move.

Other Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Pot 

You’ll want to ensure you also think of the following characteristics that can also have an effect on overall growth.

Drainage – Do not overlook how important drainage is to the health of your autoflower plants. Choose a container or pot that provides optimal drainage, or one that you can easily drill your own holes into. Proper drainage is vital for water to run-off and to allow ample oxygen into the grow medium. It also helps avoid issues that can come from overwatering. No matter the size, or type you use, adding clay pebbles to the base of your pot can help improve drainage, too.

Shape – While round or circular pots are most popular, square or rectangular shaped pots are increasing in use. The pots square shape can be easier to stick plants close together, and keep even, in a small growing area.

Colour – Because certain colours can absorb and trap heat, it’s another factor you’ll want to consider especially if you’re growing outdoors. White pots, or lighter shades are better than black or darker shades, since they store less heat.

Pots for Pot

With the information you’ve gained today, you can better choose which autoflower pot size and type is best for you. The choice you make will depend on your specific grow room, needs or desires, and what you expect from your final yields. Before you invest in the type of pot you’ll use, make sure you take all the factors into account for the biggest bang for your buck.