Can I repaint this terracotta pot?

[Littlemiss74]

I have had this pot for years but not used it. It’s looking a bit worn and I wondered if I could paint it back to its original terracotta colour. What would be the best paint to achieve this? Also any suggestions as to what to plant in it? It is quite tall so I was thinking of something like a little bay tree - would that work? I am a gardening novice so have no clue!

Its not a good idea to paint terracotta as its porous, water can get under the paint and freeze in winter and crack the pot . I'd just put a tree in it like you suggest and enjoy its rustic appeal

Thank you, would it be ok to give it a good clean or is it not a good idea to use cleaning substances either?

I'd be concerned about it cracking too but is it possible to paint it if you apply a decent sealant (couple of coats) to the pot first?

I would give it a good soak (if you can find a container large enough!) in hot water with a bit of washing up liquid in it, then scrub with a sturdy brush. I think terracotta looks much nicer in its original state than painted, and paint would probably flake off in time anyway.

I spray painted an old terracotta pot this week, along with some old tatty plastic ones and it looks fab.

I used some spray paint off amazon, it was called Kobra

Just wash it out on a warm sunny day and let dry in the sun. I use scrub brush and water with sand on mine. You dont want to use anything like bleach or harsh chemicals because residues will be embedded in the pot and then leach into the plant soil, potentially poisoning the plant.
You do not want to paint a terracotta pot because they are designed to breath which is better for the plants.

Ok thanks everyone, I will start by giving it a good wash when we get next sunny day!

I’ve painted loads over the years with no problems. I use Matt emulsion.

You could try giving it a really good scrub, and then rubbing in a little olive oil. That brings the colour back, but test it in a inconspicuous place first. I've done it with indoor ones, but not outdoor.

Funny thing is, I much prefer terracotta pots to look old and weathered.