A flower pot (or plant pot) is a container such as a pot in which flowers and other plants are cultivated. Historically, and still to a significant extent today, they are made from terracotta. Flower pots are now often made from plastic, wood, stone, or sometimes biodegradable material. An example of biodegradable pots are the so-called "Jiffy" pots. Often there are holes in the bottom, to allow excess water to flow out, sometimes to a saucer that is placed under the flower pot. The plant can use this water with its roots, as needed. Recently, some flower pots have been made with an automatic watering system, using a reservoir.
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Flower pots have a number of uses, from transporting plants to new locations, starting seeds, patio and indoor cultivation of plants, and the growing of tender plants in colder regions indoors.[1] Through the centuries, the use of flower pots has influenced the horticultural use of plants, and the Egyptians were among the first to use pots to move plants from one location to another. The Romans brought potted plants inside during cold weather. In the 18th century, pots were used to ship breadfruit seedlings from Tahiti to the West Indies. Also Orchids, African violets and Pelargonium geraniums were shipped in pots from other parts of the world, including Africa, to North America and Europe.[2]
In the 18th century, Josiah Wedgwood's flower pots were as popular as his famous dinner-ware, they were often highly decorative and used as table centrepieces.[3]
In Athens, earthenware flower pots were thrown into the sea during the festival of the Gardens of Adonis. Theophrastus, c. 371 – c. 287 BC, mentions that a plant called southern-wood was raised and propagated in pots because it was difficult to grow.[4]
The top of the flower pot underneath the rim is commonly known as the shoulder or collar and can aid handling.
The archaeology of the flowerpot in England and Wales c. 1650-1950 C.K. Currie; Garden History 21.2, 227-46 (1993)