Plastic pots are much more difficult to avoid if you buy in plants from garden centers or plant nurseries, most of which will not have made the move away from plastic pots.

Plastic, foam and concrete ones are much more freeze-tolerant. Many shrubs and evergreens will overwinter outside in pots, but ceramic ones are highly prone to breaking.

If you have loads of old plastic pots or seed starter trays you’re not using, you may also be able to return some to your local greenhouse. “This plastic costs money for those nurseries, many of which ...

So, remember this (and tell five friends): When it comes to plastic items, recycle only plastic containers, 5 gallons in size or smaller, in your bin or cart at home. That’s it. No other plastics.

Alternatives to plastic pots include plantable ones made from rice hulls, peat, cow manure, wood pulp, and coconut coir. They will break down in the soil and allow the roots to grow through the walls.