With so many terracotta pots on the market, some at rock bottom prices, what’s so special about Cretan terracotta? Well, the answer to that question, is EVERYTHING! The design, the history, the process, the material, the longevity…….. Cretan terracotta is the real deal. Let’s look at the facts:
- Sustainability: Cretan terracotta pots are made from outstanding quality natural Cretan clay, which is a sustainable and eco-friendly material. They are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic materials, making them safe for both plants and the environment.
- Aesthetics: Our pots are 100% handcrafted on a potter’s wheel without the use of moulds and with minimal tools. It’s a far cry from the mass-produced machine-made pots that grace our garden centres and give terracotta a bad name with their poor quality and ease of breakage. Cretan terracotta pots have a distinctive rustic and earthy appeal that adds a touch of elegance and charm to any garden or outdoor space. They can complement different styles of gardens, from traditional to contemporary.
- Durability: Cretan terracotta pots are renowned for their durability. The high-quality clay used in their production and the high temperature firing/cooling process makes them resistant to cracking, fading, and weathering. They can withstand various weather conditions, including sun, rain, and most importantly, frost, without damage. In fact the unique patina each pot develops outdoors as it ages, is key to their charm. See our inspiration pages for some great examples of the Cretan look, with photos taken all over the island.
- Plant Health: The breathability and moisture regulation properties of the porous terracotta used in our Cretan pots creates a healthier environment for plants. The clay walls allow excess moisture to evaporate, preventing waterlogged soil and reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Additionally, the natural insulation properties of Cretan terracotta pots protect plant roots from temperature stress, leading to stronger and more resilient plants.
- Tested through the Ages: There is a reason Cretan pots have been in continuous production for thousands of years – they are simply the best you can buy. The Minoans, Romans, Venetians and Ottomans to name but a few, all recognised quality when they saw it and used these pots for everything from home décor to mass storage of grain, oil and wine. If history could give Trust Pilot reviews, they would all be 5*!