A: For years, experts told gardeners to put a layer of gravel, pebbles, sand or broken pieces of pot in the bottom of the pot before potting up houseplants or outdoor plants. The idea was to improve drainage. But research shows that this advice is wrong. Water doesn’t travel well from one medium to another.
One may also ask, what do you put in the bottom of a planter?
Lightweight Filler for Pots
- Recycle Plastics. Plastic Water/Soda Bottles. …
- Reuse Packing Materials. …
- Unused Plastic Pots Turned Upside Down.
- Recycled Crushed Cans.
- Natural Materials. …
- Recycled Cardboard, Newspaper (Also for short term use only.)
Similarly one may ask, do you put rocks in the bottom of a self watering planter?
From this combination of education and experience I can tell you definitely that, Not only do self-watering planters not need rocks in the bottom, but rocks will interfere with the self-watering function of these planters. Do not line the bottom of this type of planter with gravel.
How much rocks should I put in a planter?
One rock to cover the drainage hole is enough – just enough so that the soil doesn’t leach out of the bottom but water can flow freely through the pot. Putting rocks in plant pots doesn’t aid drainage or improve air circulation.
Should I put pebbles on top of soil?
Laying pebbles over soil makes sure the soil doesn’t get eroded by rain or damaged from over-exposure to sunlight. This makes sure your plants live longer and don’t get damaged by unideal conditions. … Gardening pebbles also last longer than grass and they are easier to manage.
What do you put at the bottom of a planter for drainage?
A drainage layer is created by adding a medium such as pebbles, stones or pumace to the bottom of a pot before adding soil. Soil particles are very small and tightly packed together, which means that water moves through them quite slowly.
What do you put in the bottom of a planter without drainage holes?
Some experts suggest using a layer of pebbles as a sort of drainage layer in those pots without drainage holes. This technique allows excess water to flow into the space with the pebbles, away from the the soil and therefore the roots of your plant.
How do you make drainage in a large planter?
Planter Filler: Empty Water Bottles or Milk Jugs
To keep larger planters (24 inches or more) easy to move, try filling them with lightweight, bulky items like capped empty water bottles or milk jugs. They take up space without adding weight.
Do planters need drainage?
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.
