Can You Leave Ceramic Pots Outside During Winter?
Ceramic pots can be beautiful additions to any garden, but what happens if you leave them outside during the winter? Can you still use them in the spring and summer?
It’s not a good idea to keep ceramic pots outside in the winter, similar to clay pots. The coating on ceramic pots helps to keep the moisture out. However, some moisture will still get in if there are any small chips or cracks.
How to Store Ceramic Pots During Winter
Ceramic pots are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor plants. They’re durable, attractive, and come in various sizes and shapes. But what do you do with them when winter comes?
Here are a few tips for storing your ceramic pots during the winter months:
Find a sheltered spot – A garage, shed, or even an enclosed porch can work well. Just make sure the area is dry and out of direct sunlight.
Wrap them in bubble wrap – This will help protect against freezing temperatures and prevent chips or cracks if they bump into something.
Stack them on top of each other – This will help save space and prevent them from toppling over.
Label them clearly – This will help you remember where you put them and what plants were in each pot.
Will Ceramic Pots Break in Winter?
You may have seen those beautiful blue and white ceramic pots and wondered if you could use them in your garden. Maybe you’ve even bought a set of these pots, only to discover that they’re not meant for outdoor use.
Ceramic pots are vulnerable to cold weather and may break during winter, especially if you store them outside. If you live in an area with cold winters, keeping your ceramic pots indoors until spring arrives is best.
When the temperatures rise, you can bring your pots back outside and enjoy their beauty all summer long. Just be sure to bring them back inside before the first frost hits!
If you’re set on using ceramic pots in your garden, you can do a few things to help protect them from the cold.
- First, try to find pots that are made from stoneware or porcelain. These materials are more durable and less likely to break in freezing temperatures.
- You can also try coating your ceramic pots with a layer of clear sealant. This will create a barrier between the pot and the cold air, helping prevent the pot from cracking.
- Additionally, ensure you store your pots in a sheltered spot during winter. A garage or shed is a good option, as long as it doesn’t get too cold inside.
With a little care, you can use ceramic pots in your garden all year round! Just be sure to bring them inside when the weather turns cold.
ALSO READ: How to Make Ceramic Mugs by Hand
What Temperature Does Ceramic Crack?

Ceramic can start to crack at temperatures below freezing (32°F/0°C). So if the temperature in your area is going to dip below freezing, it’s best to bring your ceramic pots inside.
However, some people do leave their ceramic pots outside during winter. If you decide to do this, you can do a few things to help protect your pots.
- First, ensure the pot is clean and dry before bringing it inside.
- Then, apply a layer of petroleum jelly or Vaseline to the pot’s surface. This will create a barrier between the elements and the pot, helping to prevent cracking.
- Finally, place the pot in a sheltered spot where it won’t be exposed to direct sunlight or heavy winds.
Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of your ceramic pots cracking during winter weather.
Do You Need to Cover Ceramic Pots in Winter?
Yes, you must wrap ceramic pots in burlap, bubble wrap, old blankets, or geotextile blankets. You don’t need to cover the whole plant because the roots require protection. These heat-trapping covers will assist in retaining heat at the root zone by trapping it.
The Bottom Line
While you can technically leave ceramic pots outside during winter, it’s not advised. The freezing temperatures can cause the ceramic to crack, allowing water to seep in and potentially ruin your plant. If you’re set on using a ceramic pot for your outdoor plants, bring it inside or at least cover it when the temperatures drop.