It's important to choose the right type of pottery, depending on how the recipient plans to use it. “Some ceramics that are fired at a low-temperature aren't capable of retaining water well," Collins explains. “This means it's not food-safe or great for plants.” Some pottery is meant to be entirely decorative—that's ok too! Attention green thumbs! Collins warns against using low-temperature fired pottery with glazes for plants. "If there's lead or other chemicals in the glaze, the plant will absorb the chemicals and eventually die once the pot becomes saturated with water."