Adding a handwoven basket to a potted plant is one of the easiest ways to bring warmth, texture and natural beauty into your home. But choosing the right size basket can be tricky—especially when you are shopping online.
Too small, and the plant pot will not fit. Too large, and the pot may look lost inside the basket. This simple guide will help you find the best Basketly basket for your plant.
Step 1: Measure the Widest Part of Your Plant Pot
Using a tape measure, measure straight across the widest part of your existing plant pot. Be sure to measure the outside of the pot, including any rim or lip around the top.
Do not rely only on the size printed on the nursery pot. A pot labeled as 10 inches may actually be slightly wider at the rim.
For a comfortable fit, choose a basket with an inside diameter approximately 1 to 2 inches wider than the widest part of your pot.
For example:
- A pot measuring 10 inches wide will usually need a basket at least 11 to 12 inches wide.
- A pot measuring 12 inches wide will usually need a basket at least 13 to 14 inches wide.
- A pot measuring 14 inches wide will usually need a basket at least 15 to 16 inches wide.
A little extra room makes it easier to place the pot inside the basket and remove it when needed.
Step 2: Measure the Height of the Pot
Next, measure from the base of the plant pot to its top edge.
Ideally, the basket should be approximately the same height as the pot—or slightly taller—so the plastic or ceramic container is hidden. If you love a more relaxed, layered look, allowing the top inch of the pot to show can also work beautifully.
Avoid choosing a basket that is significantly shorter than the pot unless you intentionally want the container to remain visible.
Step 3: Pay Attention to the Shape
Many plant pots are wider at the top and narrower at the bottom. Baskets can also be round, tapered or more structured in shape.
Always compare the widest measurement of your pot with the basket’s opening. A basket may appear wide enough through the middle but still have an opening that is too narrow for the pot to pass through.
If your pot has a wide rim or an unusual shape, allow a little more space.
Step 4: Decide How You Want the Plant to Sit
The perfect fit depends partly on the look you prefer.
For a Neat, Tailored Look
Choose a basket that is only 1 to 2 inches wider than the plant pot. This keeps the pot secure and creates a clean, fitted appearance.
For a Relaxed, Collected Look
Choose a basket with a little more room around the pot. You can fill the empty space with crumpled paper, a folded towel or another lightweight material to keep the pot centered.
To Add Height
If the basket is taller than the plant pot, place a sturdy, water-resistant riser in the bottom. This will lift the plant so its foliage sits naturally above the edge of the basket.
Do You Plant Directly Into the Basket?
We recommend keeping your plant inside its original nursery pot or another waterproof container rather than planting directly into the basket.
Natural rattan and other woven fibers should not remain wet. Keeping the plant in a separate pot makes watering easier and helps protect your basket.
Many of our Basketly planter baskets include a plastic liner for added protection. However, we still recommend removing the plant for heavy watering or placing a waterproof saucer beneath the pot. Always allow excess water to drain completely before returning the plant to its basket.
What If Your Basket Is Slightly Too Large?
A basket does not have to fit tightly around the plant pot. If it is slightly too large, use lightweight filler around the base to keep the plant upright and centered.
A larger basket can also give a plant room to grow if you expect to repot it in the future.
Remember That Every Basket Is Handmade
Basketly baskets are woven by hand using natural materials. Slight variations in size, color and shape are part of their character and beauty.
Because of these natural variations, it is best to allow a little extra room rather than selecting a basket with measurements exactly the same as your pot.
Our Simple Basket-Sizing Formula
Before ordering, remember:
Plant pot width + 1 to 2 inches = recommended minimum basket width
Then compare the height of your pot with the height of the basket to make sure the container will be covered as much as you would like.
Still Unsure Which Size to Choose?
Send us the width and height of your plant pot—or a photo of the plant with its measurements—and we will be happy to help you choose the best Basketly basket.
Explore our collection of handwoven rattan baskets and find a beautiful new home for your favorite plants.
