What’s the best thing to put in the bottom of a planter?
It’s best to add drainage material such as broken old terracotta or pebbles / stones in the base of the pot . You can also use gravel and then compost . Then you can plant the pot up with your chosen plant . If you have a large pot you can lighten the load with polystyrene or vermiculite added in the compost . We love the guys at Soil Ninja for great potting mixes. Create a Drainage Layer: Add a layer of coarse material at the bottom of the pot, such as gravel or broken pieces of terracotta pots. This layer helps prevent water from saturating the soil and promotes better drainage.
Can plants survive in pots without drainage holes?
While proper drainage is typically crucial for plant health, it’s still possible to successfully plant and care for your green companions in pots without drainage. Always choose a pot with drainage holes and a tray to catch excess water to keep them looking their best. These pots can also come in handy if you’re new to houseplants and have a tendency to overwater.
Is it okay to have a planter without drainage holes?
If you find that your favorite pot doesn’t have a hole in the bottom for drainage, we have good news: almost any container can become a happy home for a plant! Any water that pools at the bottom of a planter can allow bacteria and fungus to form and cause root rot, which can be deadly. Though every plant owner should know their individual plant’s care and watering needs, drainage holes in a planter allow any extra water to seep out.Some ceramic pots are sold with no drainage holes, implying the roots will be kept in highly damp conditions. If this is the case we highly recommend adding 2-3 inches at the bottom before potting your plant to prevent roots from rotting. Otherwise, you should pick a plant that can withstand excess water.Adding rocks can actually trap water, harm your plants’ roots, and even damage your container over time. So, what really belongs in the bottom of your planter? High-quality potting soil—nothing else.Any water that pools at the bottom of a planter can allow bacteria and fungus to form and cause root rot, which can be deadly. Though every plant owner should know their individual plant’s care and watering needs, drainage holes in a planter allow any extra water to seep out.
Do indoor plant pots need a hole in the bottom?
Pots absolutely must have drainage holes. This is non-negotiable. Your roots will rot and drown. If you want to keep this planter absolutely drill some holes in there. The first thing you need to make sure of is that your planter box has enough drainage at the base. If it doesn’t, then you will need to drill a few holes in to allow for proper liquid drainage. Secondly, be sure to use a potting mix that has adequate drainage and is lightweight.