Should indoor planters have drainage holes?
Whether your potted plants are indoors or outdoors, proper drainage is an essential element to ensure they stay healthy. This process keeps water from pooling at the base of the pot, which can cause bacteria, fungus and root rot. Proper drainage is essential for keeping your plants healthy and vibrant when they are kept in planters. One easy way to make sure this happens is by adding drainage holes. These prevent excess water from causing root rot and other issues.One of the best things to put at the bottom of a planter for drainage is broken pieces of pot. You can use any unwanted plant pots or chipped crockery for this – simply smash them up into small to medium-sized pieces. Adding a layer of broken pieces of pot like this will prevent compost loss out of the drainage holes.The key? Using empty soda cans! Placing cans at the bottom of a planter not only helps with drainage, but also cuts down on the amount of potting soil you’ll need to fill the pot.
What are the three types of planters?
Here’s a broad overview of the types of planters available: Terracotta or ceramic planters. Plastic planters. Wooden planters. While outdoor pots come in a wide range of materials, indoor pots tend to be plastic or ceramic. The former is great for the absent-minded plant parent who may forget a watering here or there, as they retain moisture longer than ceramic pots. Plus, they’re typically more budget-friendly and easier to clean.Choosing between ceramic and plastic depends on plant needs, environment, and personal preferences. Ceramic pots are ideal for plants requiring more breathability and stable temperatures, while plastic pots suit moisture-loving plants and are more versatile for various locations due to their lightweight.Materials and Features That Matter Think about weight, drainage, and durability: Plastic pots are affordable, retain moisture, and are easy to move. Ceramic planters offer natural textures and suit both indoor and outdoor use. Metal planters are stylish and modern, ideal for accent pieces.
How to choose an indoor planter?
Our advice is to go porous. Porous ceramics like terracotta will dry more evenly than plastic pots, and any wood planter will dry even faster than terracotta. Ceramic planters also are great choices. And if you’re worried about weight, fiberglass planters are ideal for plants 8 or larger in diameter. Since gaining popularity in recent decades, fiberglass planters have built a reputation for being both lightweight and low-maintenance. Wood planters, on the other hand, are harder to move and require more ongoing care to maintain their appearance and structural integrity.Fiberglass Planters: Known for their durability, versatility, and style, fiberglass planters are an excellent choice for various settings. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a long-lasting investment for your outdoor spaces.Our advice is to go porous. Porous ceramics like terracotta will dry more evenly than plastic pots, and any wood planter will dry even faster than terracotta. Ceramic planters also are great choices. And if you’re worried about weight, fiberglass planters are ideal for plants 8 or larger in diameter.
What can I use cheaply for planters?
Pros: Crushed aluminum cans (crushed so they don’t collect water) are another lightweight option that can help with drainage, and one of the cheapest way to fill planters. Using crushed aluminum cans also keeps them out of landfills. If you have recycled plastic lying around, such as water or soda bottles, grocery bags, or milk and juice jugs, use them to fill the bottom of your large planter. The plastic is of more use in the base of your tall planter than in a landfill.Preparing your planter Add a layer of gravel, broken pots, or large stones to the planter’s base for drainage. Then fill it with soil or compost suitable for the type of plants or vegetables you want to grow. Now it’s ready for planting!An effective and affordable way of reducing the soil you need when filling large planters is by using lightweight pot fillers and lightening materials. These materials consist of foam peanuts, plastic bottles, and even crushed cans.
Do indoor planters need special soil?
Indoor plants are often tropical plants. In order to thrive, they need well-draining, moisture-retentive potting soil. Good quality potting mix will have a loose, crumbly texture. Soils that hold on to too much water will cause roots to rot and give mold a chance to grow. Why should you use quality potting mix for your indoor plants? Indoor plant potting mix isn’t just a bag of dirt. Quality indoor plant potting mix is the result of extensive research, product development and precise manufacturing to ensure that your indoor plants are getting the nutrients that they need.