Too Many Plastic Pots!
After years of home gardening we had amassed a large collection of plastic pots. Every plant we ever bought came in plastic and we couldn’t bare the thought of them all going to waste. So we kept them & reused them many times over. We still have them.
When we started this plant nursery, we wanted it to be different. In this age of increasing climate & environmental awareness, we saw no need to add to the existing problems. In fact our dreams for our site are the opposite – regeneration & sustainability.
This lead us on a search for an alternative to the plastic planter bags, pots & punnets that are so commonplace. We needed biodegradable plant pots.
The solution came in the form of a product called Fertilpots.
About Fertilpots
Fertilpots were developed in France in 1959 by a company called Fertil and are comprised primarily from sustainably-harvested Spruce trees from tree thinning operations in the forests surrounding their factory.
There are no binders or glues used in the pots and unlike many biodegradable plant options, they do not require a composting situation in order to break down. They are even approved for use in certified organic situations.
Fertil prides themselves on sustainability, even the power used in their factory comes from zero emission hydroelectric schemes.
The Benefits of Fertilpots
Low Waste
There is no waste when you buy a plant in a fertilpot. The whole lot goes directly into the ground.
Faster Planting
No messing around trying to get plants out of their pots and then disposing of the pots. Or having them blow away!
Fast Establishment
No transplant shock. The roots are not disturbed during planting so the plant establishes easily in it’s new location.
Air Pruning
When roots penetrate the pot, air stops them and encourages growth of a strong secondary root system.
How to Use Fertilpots
Planting a fertilpot is not that different to planting with an ordinary plastic pot. If anything, it’s easier.
- Carry the damp/wet fertilpots to the planting area.
- Plant each Fertilpot carefully below soil level. It is important that the rim of the pot is not showing above the ground. If it is, simply remove that portion of the pot – it should tear easily when wet.
- Water freely. It is important that it does not dry out in the first few days.
Continue caring for your plant as per normal care instructions and watch it flourish!
Want to know more?
Check out the Fertil company website here or the NZ importer website where I get my supplies from here.