Frequently asked questions

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about my handmade nesting pots, insect pots, and other garden ceramics. My mission is simple: stylishly support biodiversity in your garden or on your balcony.

Bird Nesting Pots

Why choose a ceramic nesting pot instead of a wooden birdhouse?

My nesting pots are handmade from ceramic and fired at high temperatures. Ceramic is durable and lasts for years. It is breathable, ensuring a stable internal climate. It requires little maintenance and is a stylish addition to your garden or facade. A ceramic nesting pot is therefore not only functional but also beautiful.

Which birds are the nesting pots suitable for?

Ceramics for Nature makes nesting pots for common Dutch garden birds, such as:

  • Tit

  • Sparrow

  • Starling

  • Nuthatch

  • Treecreeper
  • Robin
  • Wren
  • Swallow

What is the difference between cavity nesters and semi-cavity nesters? Cavity nesters breed in enclosed spaces with a round entrance hole. For these species, the diameter of the opening is essential. In nature, they use tree cavities. Examples:
  • Great Tit
  • Blue Tit
  • House Sparrow
  • Starling
  • Nuthatch
Semi-cavity nesters prefer to breed in semi-open spaces or sheltered spots in greenery. They do not need a small round opening but rather a semi-open front or bowl shape. Examples:
  • Robin
  • Wren
  • Spotted Flycatcher
  • Barn Swallow
  • House Martin

What should be the size of the entrance hole per bird species?

The correct opening increases the chance of habitation and prevents larger birds from taking over the nest.

Cavity nesters (round opening):
  • Blue Tit → ± 28 mm
  • Great Tit → ± 32 mm
  • House Sparrow → ± 38 mm
  • Nuthatch → ± 32 mm (can narrow the opening themselves with mud)
  • Starling → ± 45 mm
Semi-cavity nesters:
  • Robin → semi-open front
  • Wren → small semi-open opening
  • Barn and House Swallow → semi-open cup under the eaves
Special shape:
  • Treecreeper → narrow vertical slit against a tree trunk

When can I hang a nesting pot?

All year round. Many birds also use nesting sites outside the breeding season.

  • Spring (March – July): breeding season
  • Autumn and winter: shelter from cold and wind

Where is the best place to hang a nesting pot?

General guidelines:

  • In a quiet spot
  • Not in full sun or heavy rain
  • At least 1.5 – 2 meters high (depending on species)
  • With a clear flight path
Specific:
  • Swallows → under eaves or overhang
  • Treecreeper → against a tree trunk
  • Robin and wren → low and sheltered in bushes
  • Tits, sparrows, and starlings → against a facade or tree

Do I need to clean a nesting pot?

Yes, once a year in autumn. This prepares the pot for a new breeding season.

  • Remove old nesting material
  • Rinse clean with hot water
  • Do not use cleaning agents

Insect Pots

Does an insect pot really work?

Yes. Bumblebees, ladybugs, and butterflies look for safe places to nest or overwinter. Due to urbanization, natural shelters are disappearing. A ceramic insect pot offers:

  • Protection from rain
  • A stable microclimate
  • A safe place to overwinter
Combine this with flowering, native plants for the best result.

Why are insects important for biodiversity?

A garden with insects is a living garden.

  • Bumblebees provide pollination
  • Ladybugs eat aphids
  • Butterflies contribute to a healthy ecosystem

Where do I place an insect pot?

  • In a sunny, dry place
  • Out of the wind
  • Near flowers
  • Not directly facing north
You can also support biodiversity on a balcony.

Sustainability and Craftsmanship

Are the products handmade in the Netherlands?

Yes. Each pot is handmade in my studio in the Netherlands. No mass production, but craftsmanship. This makes each pot unique.

Are the products suitable for all seasons?

Yes. The products are fired at high temperatures (± 1200 degrees), so they do not absorb moisture. This makes them weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor use.

Is this a sustainable gift?

Yes, very much so. My handmade garden ceramics are a sustainable gift for garden lovers, nature lovers, and anyone who values biodiversity.

Ordering and Delivery

What is the delivery time?

If a product is in stock, it will be shipped as soon as possible, often within 1 or 2 business days. If the products are out of stock or only partially in stock, they will be made to order, and the delivery time will be slightly longer. The average delivery time for products that need to be made is between 2 to 4 weeks. Each product is carefully packaged in recyclable packaging material that has (sometimes) been used before. The package may not look as pretty, but the contents are well protected, and it is better for the environment.