Why is the bottom part of my clay planter (flower pot) discolored?

Question

I have a potted plant that is in one of those typical clay pots that you can buy everywhere. Anyway, the bottom inch or so of the pot has turned a strange color. I water my plant once a week (the recommended amount for this kind of plant), and it has a tray that extra water drains into. What am I doing wrong? I'm pretty clueless about plants, so would really appreciate any feedback. Thanks!

Answer 1

It isn't a problem, just minerals coming out of the water and soil and fertilizer.  Sometimes near the bottom you might grow a little mossiness.  Just part of the character of terracotta pots.  

Answer 2

Clay or terracotta pots arent bad for your plants - its just the water (and minerals) leech out quite quickly.  Hence the discolouration of the pot.  There is a answer though.  You can buy "pot sealer" which you spray into the pot first... or the cheaper alternative (the one I use) is to paint the inside of the pot.  Doesnt matter what colour it is or what type.  Use something that you have in the shed.  This provides a barrier for the plant, it want leech out so quickly and also your plant will be happier too.  :)

Goodluck

Answer 3

it is probably calcium carbonate. if you use plastic pots it wont happen and you wont have to water as much. If it really bothers you seek therapy for OCD and being anal.

Answer 4

There is no need to worry at all. My clay pots do this often, and eventually they get really icky with white crustiness on them. It's merely a side effect of the clay soaking in the calcium and other minerals in the water and/or soil. So, if I have a plant in a clay pot, I scrub the build up off once a year when I repot my plants. (You'll have to use an sos pad to do it because it's tough to get off).

Lately, I have been purchasing clay pots that have been glazed as this won't happen. I also use plastic, but prefer the naturalness of clay. I was told that regular clay pots are actually bad for the plant because they draw away the vitamins and minerals from the water and absorb it... just a consideration.