When not recycled or reused, plastics are a major contributor to landfills accounting for up to 25%. Conventional petro-based products use up precious resources, contaminate the environment and interrupt natural processes. In the past, this has posed an eco-dilemna for gardeners who rely on planters for starting plants and growing seedlings. Today, biodegradable pots offer earth friendly options.

The Home Depot has made headlines recently with the introduction of its “Eco Option” line of products. Among low-VOC paints, organic fertilizers and energy efficient appliances are vegetables in biodegradable pots. These big box stores are catching on to the sustainable technologies that smaller companies have diligently developed.

Biodegradable pots and planters use dextrose from natural sources like corn and bamboo rather than petroleum. As production of plastics requires over 200,000 barrels of oil per day, the technology is a welcome relief on strained resources.

Based on natural compounds means these “plastics” can be composted. The break down rate for many biodegradable pots can be as little as a few months. When they decompose, they release water and carbon dioxide without leaching harmful chemicals into the air or soil.

The benefits are significant. Biodegradable pots offer the needed container functions, are easily returned to natural cycles but also surpass regular plastics in the manufacturing process. Dextrose based plastics require less than half the energy to produce than their petroleum counterparts. Comparatively, they also produce a third of the greenhouse gases.

These reductions in manufacturing costs translate into a more efficient and less expensive product. In fact, the world’s biggest bottom line watcher, Wal-Mart, uses an alternative, petrol-free plastic made of a resin called polylactic acid or PLA. As do some other well known, more eco-friendly organizations like Wild Oats Natural Food Stores and Newman’s Own Organics.

The environmental benefits of biodegradable pots are considerable. They’re the optimal choice for gardeners, especially those who are already composting organic materials to enrich their soil. Because biodegradable pots can be planted there’s no need to remove seedlings from pots. Many manufacturers specify “corner bottom” holes at the pot base to encourage root growth while the pot decomposes.

One drawback to these kinds of “plastics” is that some industrial compost facilities will have to adjust their processes. The break down of biodegradable pots can introduce excessive moisture and increase acid levels in an industrial hot compost. In large doses, this can decrease oxygen within the pile and slow decomposition. The good news is that facilities nationwide are anticipating more biodegradable plastics and some plan to convert to anaerobic compost processes.

In smaller compost piles, biodegradable pots can help bulk up the mix and introduce more oxygen which keeps the compost process going. The break down? Biodegradable pots are great for gardeners, and the environment.

*Note: The information in this article is general advice and not meant as a substitute for personal guidance from a financial advisor, real estate professional, general contractor or legal counsel. Although the author is a licensed realtor, the advice given in this article does not constitute any client contract or agreement between the author and the user. The author is not responsible for any losses, damages or claims that may result from your decisions.