Information About PottedCattails. Cattails will spread rapidly in the correct situation, which is why you see them spread out in a sea of leaves and cone-like catkins. Growingcattailsinpots will prevent them from invading other areas of the pond or garden. Container cattail care is easy in most zones and produces a memorable display for almost the entire year. Learn more about growingcattailsinpots in this article so you can enjoy these plants. In a pot, however, cattail spreading is minimized, so a 12- to 19-inch pot should be adequate for the growth of a single cattail. Dwarf cattails only spread to a maximum distance of 2 feet, so can grow in correspondingly smaller pots, around 6 inches. Growingcattailsin a pot is another method to consider when deciding on how to control your cattails. This is particularly suitable for a small natural pond or an artificial (plastic or rubber-lined) one. Growingcattailsinpots eliminates root spread, keeping your plants in a confined space. GrowingCattailsin a Pot. Planting cattailsinpots is a practical way to prevent them from spreading uncontrollably, especially in small natural or artificial ponds. This method keeps their roots contained while allowing you to enjoy their beauty. The “Listronotus” grub grows larger. Cattails have a surprising function and history. The spread of cattailsin a body of water is an important part of the process of open water being converted to marsh then dry land. They are native to both North America and Europe. The smaller, dwarf cattailsgrow in water 3 to 6 inches deep. When growingcattailsinpots for container water gardens, the edge of the pots should sit just below water level. Discover garden plants that grow better inpots, from boxwood and lavender to roses and hydrangeas. Smart container choices create bold outdoor style. Alternatively, you can growcattailsinpots, especially dwarf varieties. Here’s how: Choosing the right pot: Use a sturdy 1-gallon container with loamy clay soil. Water level: Keep the water level up to the rim of the pot to provide adequate moisture for optimal growth. Cattail seeds require exposure to light for germination, so surface-sow them or cover only with a very fine layer of sand. Use a growing medium of equal parts seed-starting compost and coarse sand in shallow containers or pots. Not to be confused with Tall Cattail. Cattails are plants that generate in Swamplands, Patchy Islands, and Coarse Islands biomes. They can also be sprouted from Swamp Grass using Ground Dried Swamp Reed, and can be grown from Root Pods. Pottedcattails will do best submerged in water, as it will allow their roots to freely grow. Potted plants also may have a tendency to produce more dead leaves, which should be cut off frequently, as should the flower heads to prevent seed germination. Growing conditions: Cattailsgrow well in up to 12 inches of water or moist soil. Plant the cattailsinpots to prevent their aggressive rhizomes from spreading. They can tolerate partial shade but prefer full sunlight. Cattail Care Tips. Provided it's planted in the proper location and under the proper soil conditions, cattail plants will thrive with little intervention, often multiplying in a matter of mere years. Below, you'll find information on the specific type of care this popular aquatic plant requires.