Aero pots are containers designed to promote healthier plant growth by encouraging proper root development. They feature a unique design with perforated sides, allowing air to reach the roots of the plant. This helps prevent the roots growing in tight circles around the edges of the pot, which can stunt growth and lead to an unhealthy plant.
The structure of an aero pot typically consists of heavy-duty polyethylene material, with many small holes or slits in the sides and bottom. Besides allowing for optimal drainage, these openings enable air to reach the roots, facilitating root pruning. As the roots encounter air, the tips die back, causing the roots to develop additional branching behind the ‘air-pruned’ tips. This process prevents roots circling the pot and the plant becoming ‘root bound’, and creates denser, more fibrous root growth, with more root tip growth points leading to faster overall growth and the development of a vigorous, healthy plant.
Aero pots are used for growing a wide range of plants, including flowering perennials, orchids, vegetables, trees, water plants (such as water lilies), and are especially beneficial for container gardening. They are also valued for their ability to support healthier transplanting, as plants grown in aero pots typically have a better developed root system and transplant and develop faster, compared to the same plant grown in a traditional pot.
