I am surprised nobody has mentioned the obvious fundamental disadvantage of clay pots - their weight, requiring both robust physique and a robust greenhouse bench if more than a few are used.. I grow everything in plastic pots, and can't see any reason why clay could be better, but plants can be grown both poorly and well in either. Ultimately how a plant thrives is down to the cultivation regime. John Grimshaw Visit John Grimshaw's Garden Diary http://johngrimshawsgardendiary.blogspot.com/ Dr. John M. Grimshaw Sycamore Cottage Colesbourne Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL53 9NP Tel. 01242 870567