22 Jul, 2015 · · DIY · 10 comments Show 22 Jul, 2015 · By Pistils Nursery· DIY · 10 comments Some pots have drainage; others do not. It’s a pretty straightforward distinction, and yet that little hole at the bottom of your pot means a world of difference in terms of potting, plant care and maintenance. We field a lot of questions about how to plant in pots without drainage holes. Some people say not to do it at all, arguing that drainage holes are crucial to plant health. Is it possible to keep your plant in a pot without drainage holes? Our answer is yes, but with caution. What is the purpose of a drainage hole? All plants need water to survive. And yet, over-watering is the most common (and perhaps quickest) way to kill an indoor plant. Drainage holes allow excess water to seep out of pots after watering, ensuring that water does not pool at the base of a pot, protecting sensitive roots from rot, fungus and bacteria. Here are a few things to remember about keeping plants in pots without drainage. Rules for Planting: Pots Without Drainage HolesA little bit of water goes a long way Use Soil Amendments When soil without amendments dries up, it often repels water and makes houseplant care more difficult. The little bits of porous rock and bark help give water more passageways to hydrate your plant's roots. Use activated charcoal Another issue that arises from over-watering is fungal and bacterial disease. Activated charcoal has natural microbial properties, and can help deter those harmful bugs. An added bonus! Think you over-watered? Tip it over. Don’t get rained on If all else fails, repot Pro-tip: Make it a cachepot Have any advice to share about potting plants with or without drainage holes? Share with us in the comments. Happy planting! Previous post Back to blog Next postDo you need a drainage hole for indoor plants?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.
What if my plants don't have drainage holes?How to Use Pots with No 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 soil and, therefore, the roots of your plant.
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