How to Plant Succulents in Pots that Don't Drain

Succulents are beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are perfect for indoor and outdoor gardens. However, planting succulents in pots that don't drain can be tricky. Without proper drainage, water can accumulate in the soil and cause root rot, which can eventually kill the plant. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to plant succulents in pots that don't drain so that you can enjoy these lovely plants without any worries.

Step 1: Choose the right pot

The first step in planting succulents in pots that don't drain is to choose the right pot. Plastic or ceramic pots are good choices because they are lightweight and easy to handle. The pot should have at least one drainage hole, but if it doesn't, you can drill one or two holes in the bottom of the pot yourself. Alternatively, you can choose a pot that fits inside a larger decorative pot with drainage, and lift the inner pot when watering to allow excess water to drain away.

Step 2: Prepare the soil

The next step is to prepare the soil. Use a well-draining soil mix made specifically for cacti and succulents or create your own by combining regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or pumice. Mix the soil ingredients thoroughly to ensure the right consistency. This will provide good drainage while retaining essential moisture for the roots.

Step 3: Create a drainage layer

Since your pot doesn't have a drainage hole, you need to create a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot to prevent water from accumulating in the soil. This can be done by adding a layer of pebbles, stones, or broken pottery to the bottom. Make sure that the drainage layer covers at least one-third of the pot's depth.

Step 4: Plant the succulents

Once the drainage layer is in place, it's time to plant the succulents. Gently remove the plants from their current pots and shake off any excess soil. If you're planting multiple succulents in one pot, make sure to leave enough space between them so they can grow and spread. Place the succulents on top of the drainage layer, and fill the pot with soil until it reaches about 1 inch below the rim. Firmly press the soil around the plants to anchor them in place.

Step 5: Water the succulents

After planting, it's important to water the succulents properly. Since the pot doesn't have a drainage hole, you need to be careful not to overwater. Use a watering can with a long spout or a spray bottle to water the plants lightly, making sure the soil is moist but not soaked. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not water the succulents again until the soil is completely dry.

Step 6: Place the pot in the right spot

The final step is to place the pot in the right spot. Succulents require plenty of sunlight, so choose a sunny location where they can receive at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day. If you're planting succulents indoors, place the pot near a bright window or under a grow light. Avoid placing the pot near drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or heaters.

With these simple steps, you can successfully plant succulents in pots that don't drain. Just remember to choose the right pot, prepare the soil correctly, create a drainage layer, plant the succulents carefully, water them properly, and place the pot in a sunny, draft-free location. With proper care, your succulents will thrive and add beauty to your surroundings for years to come.