Fall is quickly turning to winter in Minnesota, so it’s time to think about what to do with the beautiful ceramic containers that served you so well over the spring, summer, and fall. Sunnyside Gardens recommends that you DO NOT leave them out over the winter. If you must keep them out because of size, we suggest you try to remove all the soil, and keep them as dry as you can. We’ve seen some home-owners cover them in a large plastic garbage bag to prevent snow and water accumulating in the container.

If you like to keep your ceramic pots out to use for winter decorating, consider emptying them out, lining them with plastic, and then placing plastic drop-in containers full of your tree top arrangements to prevent winter precipitation from accumulating in the clay.

If, despite your best efforts, you do get splits or cracks, fill in the cracks immediately with clear silicone.

How long your ceramic pottery lasts depends on how it’s cared for. By taking some precautions, however, you may be able to keep them beautiful for years.