There are signs all around us that spring is here. The songbirds have returned, buds are appearing on the trees, and the sales ads at all the garden centers and home improvement stores are filled with pictures of lush, healthy plants in pots and planters.

Normand Junior green cement pot. $15. Williamsburg Pottery.

But don't be tempted to run out and start stocking up just yet. Those pots and planters may look great, but before you buy, make sure you know what they're made of and whether they'll work well for you. Plant containers are made from all sorts of materials, from inexpensive plastic to ceramic and fiberglass resin.

Because they are the most readily available and least expensive, plastic and clay are the two most popular options. Drainage is very important for all plants to prevent root rot, so make sure that whatever container you purchase, there is a drain hole in the bottom of the pot or a way to drill a hole.

Plastic — Plastic is by far the most popular material used in plant containers. It can easily be molded into all shapes and sizes, and it comes in colors as varied as the rainbow.

Terra cotta — Classic terra cotta, or clay, pots are another popular option. You'll find them in all shapes and designs at your local gardening store. They're usually orange but can be painted. Be sure to check for cold resistance because terra cotta can crumble if left out in cold temperatures.

Foam — Containers made of foam are lightweight, which makes them easy to handle. The drawback, however, is that they're not very durable. If knocked around, they can crack and break easily.

Fiberglass — Fiberglass containers are lightweight, exceptionally durable, and resistant to water and extreme weather damage. They come in lots of colors and designs but can cost as much or more than ceramic pots.

Glazed ceramic comes in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and styles. You can find something to match just about every decor. The glazing on the outside makes them durable, but over time, you may have problems with chipping of the glaze by water seeping through the clay from the inside of the pot. To prevent this, spray the inside with a sealant like Spray 'N Seal Pottery Sealer before adding soil.

Wooden barrels and planter boxes — They come as the traditional half whisky barrel or the redwood or cedar wooden barrel and planter box made to be planters. They add the rustic look of wood to your garden. They are heavy and the bottoms rot out after a few years. Thus, you should consider placing them on a low plant stand to increase air circulation.