A plant grown in a pot, planter, or other container rather than directly in the ground.
Many plants can be grown successfully in containers when provided with adequate space, water, nutrients, and proper drainage.
Because roots are confined to a limited volume of soil, container plants depend more heavily on regular care than plants growing in the ground. Water is used more quickly, nutrients are depleted faster, and roots may eventually fill the container.
Some plants adapt especially well to container growing, including herbs, compact vegetables, flowering plants, and dwarf varieties selected for smaller spaces.
Growing plants in containers makes gardening possible in locations where in-ground planting is impractical or impossible. Understanding the needs of container plants helps prevent common problems such as poor growth, drought stress, and becoming root bound.