Good insulation and porous, allowing excess water to leach through and roots to use oxygen. Available in several sizes. Expensive and cracks easier than other materials. Plants will dry out more quickly than in plastic containers. Larger terra-cotta containers are heavy.
Plastic is lighter, less expensive and holds water better than terra cotta.
Too much water and fertilizer will cause problems as plastic is nonporous. You may have to drill extra drainage holes to ensure proper drainage. Some fade in direct sunlight. Handsome appearance, good insulation properties and porous so plants can better use oxygen. Wooden containers will rot, especially when not raised off the ground or patio, and are more susceptible to insect damage.