Antique Your Terracotta Plant Pots For A Stylized Upgrade

Prized for their beauty and affordability, terracotta pots are a gardening staple for a reason. Made from a porous clay that is often left unglazed, they offer good air circulation and drainage that can relieve your plants of excess moisture and help prevent root rot. They can also be used both indoors and outdoors. While most newly fired terracotta pots start out with a bright orange hue, they become even more beautiful as they age. The buildup of mineral deposits causes them to develop a lovely, whitewashed look. And, if left in a shaded area for long enough, they also tend to develop a mossy green from algae. If you love the antique vibe of weathered terracotta pots and you don't want to wait years for it to develop, you can easily create a faux patina effect.

There are a handful of easy DIY methods you can use that will instantly create the look of an aged terracotta pot. Even better, you likely already have most if not all of the supplies you'll need at home. The method you use will depend on whether you want to create a strictly whitewashed look or if you're going for a more weathered, earthy look. Whichever technique you choose, the hack will transform your new-looking terracotta plant pots into stunning vintage beauties that will add both charm and character to your home or garden.

If you're aiming for a lighter, whitewashed look, the easiest method is to dilute a tablespoon of white paint with a few tablespoons of water and apply several coats to the pots. You can use either acrylic, latex, or chalk paint for this and apply it with either a paintbrush or sponge. Wipe off any excess paint with a damp paper towel or rag. The more coats you apply, the whiter the pot will be. Another whitewashing method involves watering down some Mod Podge and brushing it onto the pot. You then sprinkle flour onto the pot and rub it in. Once it dries, the flour mimics the appearance of white mineral deposits quite convincingly.

Prefer an earthier patina? Combine garden lime with a bit of water until you get a paintable consistency. Brush the mixture onto the pots and allow it to dry. If you'd like to distress the finish, lightly sand various spots with 150-grit sandpaper. Don't have any garden lime handy? You could also use soil right from your own yard. Mix it with a bit of water to create a muddy texture and apply it all over the pot. Once it dries, you can sand it in various areas. Whichever method you opt to use, just be sure to seal your aged pots with a clear topcoat before potting your favorite plants.