How to Use Plant Pots Without Drainage

If you're a plant lover but don't have access to outdoor space, you may have to resort to growing plants indoors. However, most indoor plants come in pots without drainage holes, and this can be a bit perplexing for new plant owners. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to use plant pots without drainage:

Choose the Right Soil

The right soil can be the difference between your plant flourishing or dying. When using pots without drainage holes, opt for a well-draining soil mix to avoid water accumulation at the bottom of the pot. You can choose to make your soil mix or buy it from your local plant store. When making your soil mix, ensure that it contains perlite, coarse sand or gravel to aid drainage.

Water Sparingly

When using pots without drainage holes, it's crucial to water your plants sparingly to avoid water accumulation. Overwatering your plant can lead to root rot, which can cause your plant to die. You can insert a chopstick or a moisture meter in the soil to check if it's dry before watering again. Ensure that the top inch of soil is dry before watering.

Use a Prefabricated Container

If you're using a pot without drainage holes, you can opt to use a prefabricated container that can fit inside your pot. This container has drainage holes that allow water to flow through it while preventing the soil from being washed through the bottom of the pot. It's a great option if you don't want to drill holes in your pot or if you want to change pots frequently without transferring the plants.

Drill Holes in Your Pot

If you're okay with altering your pot, you can drill holes in it to allow for drainage. You can use a power drill with a diamond drill bit for ceramic pots and a regular drill bit for plastic pots. Mark the spots where you want the holes and drill them at the bottom of the pot. Ensure that the holes are as large as a quarter or half-inch wide to allow for adequate drainage.

Add a Layer of Rocks and Sand

If you don't want to drill holes in your pot or use a prefabricated container, you can still use pots without drainage holes by adding a layer of rocks and sand at the bottom of the pot. This layer can help absorb excess water, allowing the plant to grow. Ensure that the rocks and sand don't occupy more than a quarter of the pot's base, as the remaining space can be filled with soil.

Conclusion

Using plant pots without drainage holes can be tricky, but with the right soil, watering routine, and additional materials like rock or prefabricated containers, your plants can still thrive. While it's okay to experiment with various techniques, ensure that you monitor your plants' growth and adjust accordingly.