What Do You Put Under Plant Pots?

Plants are an excellent way to bring life and beauty to your home, but they require proper care and attention. One essential factor in ensuring plant health is proper drainage, which is where putting something under your plant pots come in. In this article, we'll talk about what things you can use to put under your plant pots.

1. Saucers

Saucers are specially designed containers that fit under plant pots to catch excess water. They come in various sizes and materials, including plastic, terracotta, metal, and pottery. Saucers help protect your floors and furniture by preventing water from leaking out of the pot and staining surfaces. Additionally, they help regulate the plant's water intake by allowing the plant to drink water from the tray.

2. Gravel or Pebbles

You can use gravel or pebbles, which are widely available and cost-effective. They are an excellent choice for drainage material, and they help keep the soil well-aerated. When used, they create a layer at the bottom of the pot that allows water to drain freely from the plant's roots. This layer also prevents roots from rotting due to excess moisture.

3. Coconut Coir

Coconut coir is made from the husk of coconuts, and it's an excellent substitute for traditional soil. It's airy, moisture-absorbent, and does not break down quickly. Coconut coir is also organic, making it an eco-friendly option for your plant's drainage needs. When used as a drainage layer, it helps prevent soil from becoming waterlogged and allows the plant's roots to breathe.

4. Styrofoam Packing Peanuts

If you have Styrofoam packing peanuts lying around in your garage, they can be used as a great filler for your plant pots. You can use them as a bottom layer to create a pocket of air at the base of the pot. This pocket helps prevent water from becoming trapped in the pot and potentially flooding the plant's roots. Styrofoam packing peanuts also don't add any weight to the pot, making them an ideal choice for large and heavy plants.

5. Sand

Sand is another excellent option to use as a drainage layer because it doesn't retain moisture. It also prevents soil from becoming too compacted, allowing air to flow through the soil and reach the roots. When using sand, it's best to use coarse sand because fine sand can create a layer that's too dense and restricts drainage flow. Sand is a great option for plants that require excellent drainage and can't tolerate waterlogging.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material to put under your plant pot is essential for the overall health and growth of your plant. Saucers, gravel or pebbles, coconut coir, Styrofoam packing peanuts, and sand are all excellent choices to promote proper drainage. By using any of these options, you can prevent your plant from becoming waterlogged and potentially dying. Happy gardening!