Plant Pot Size Guide

Please note: This guide is for illustration purposes only. Pot sizes are not shown to scale or in proportion.

We list pot sizes by their capacity in litres. Most pots are black plastic, though we are increasingly using taupe-coloured alternatives, which are accepted in roadside recycling collections.


9cm (P9 Pots)

Our P9 pots are typically square and used for growing young stock. Common varieties include Ilex aquifolium, herbs, and a range of herbaceous lines. These pots are ideal for early-stage plant development before potting on.


2 Litre

Our 2L pots are widely used for growing amenity plants over a one-year period. They’re the standard choice for our herbaceous and shrub ranges. Plants in this size are compact enough to establish quickly but substantial enough to create immediate visual impact.


3 Litre

Slightly larger than the 2L, our 3L pots are most commonly used for garden centre lines and select amenity plants. They offer a little extra space for root development and plant growth.


5 Litre

The 5L pot is ideal for larger shrubs requiring a greater root volume. You’ll find these across the nursery, particularly in our garden centre-ready collections.


10 Litre

This is our most common size for specimen plants, typically grown on for two or more years. The larger volume supports healthy root systems and robust plant structure.


20 Litre

Our 20L pots are used for mature specimens such as Rhododendron, conifers, and smaller trees. These provide ample space for well-established root systems and are often used in landscape and feature planting.


Sustainability Note

To support recycling efforts, we are transitioning from traditional black plastic to taupe-coloured pots. These are compatible with kerbside recycling and help reduce environmental impact.


Why are the same plants sold in different pot sizes?

Plants are sold at different growth stages to suit varying budgets and planting needs.

  • Smaller pots are cheaper and easier to plant but take longer to mature.
  • Larger pots offer instant visual impact, ideal for commercial projects or feature areas.

Which Pot Sizes Offer the Best Value?

It’s not just about soil volume. Healthy roots and proper care during growing matter more.

  • Fast-growing species may perform well in smaller pots.
  • Slower growers might need a larger starting size to thrive.
  • Quality of irrigation, fertilisation, and root development are key value factors.

 


Choosing the Right Pot Size for Your Project

When selecting pot sizes, consider:

  • Budget – Larger pots cost more to purchase and transport
  • Timeline – Smaller pots need more time to mature
  • Impact – Larger pots deliver faster aesthetic results
  • Location – Save budget in background or spacious areas; invest in key visual spots


Need Assistance?

If you’re unsure which pot size is right for your project, we’re happy to help. Call us on 01423 330234 – our team will be delighted to assist you.

Pot Size Guide - Please note: the pot sizes listed below may vary due to the different pot manufactures we use

Pot SizePot DiameterPot Diameter (Base)Pot Height
CMINCHESCMINCHESCMINCHES
9cm9cm3.5"6cm2.5"8.53"
1 Litre13cm5"10cm4"11cm4"
2 Litre17cm6.5"12cm4.5"13cm5"
3 Litre19cm7.5"13cm5"15.0cm6"
4 Litre20cm8"15.5cm6"16.5cm6.5"
5 Litre22.5cm9"16.5cm6.5"18cm7"
7 Litre25cm10"19cm7.5"20cm8"
10 Litre28cm11"24cm9.5"11.5cm9"
15 Litre33cm13"25.5cm10"30cm12"
20 Litre35.5cm14"27.5cm11"32.5cm13"
25 Litre38.5cm15"30cm12"35cm14"
30 Litre41cm 16"33cm13"36cm14"
40 Litre50cm20"35.5cm14"45cm18"