What to Put in Bottom of Plant Pot

Choosing the right container for your plants is only half the battle. To ensure that your plants thrive, you need to properly prepare the container before placing the plant inside. One important step is deciding what to put in the bottom of the plant pot. This article will discuss different options for filling the bottom of your pot to help your plants grow.

Gravel

Gravel or pebbles are a popular choice for filling the bottom of plant pots. The idea is to create a layer of drainage to prevent water from sitting in the soil, which can lead to root rot. To use gravel properly, place a layer of about 1-2 inches at the bottom of the pot before adding soil.

It's important to note that using gravel alone is not enough to provide adequate drainage, so it's important to use proper soil in conjunction with the gravel.

Perlite

Perlite is a mineral that is often used as a soil amendment to improve drainage. It is lightweight, porous, and can help with aeration. Most potting soils contain perlite, but you can also add a layer of it to the bottom of the pot to provide additional drainage.

Perlite is especially useful for plants that require good drainage, such as cacti and succulents.

Coconut Coir

Coconut coir, which is made from the fibrous material found between the shell and outer husk of a coconut, is another option for the bottom of plant pots. It is lightweight, holds moisture well, and improves drainage.

To use coconut coir, place a layer of it at the bottom of the pot before adding soil. Coconut coir is a great alternative to peat moss, which is harvested from bogs and has environmental concerns associated with it.

Pebbles or Rocks

If you don't have access to gravel or perlite, you can use pebbles or small rocks to create a layer of drainage in the bottom of your pot. However, keep in mind that larger rocks can take up too much space in the pot and may not provide adequate drainage.

A layer of small rocks or pebbles should be about 1-2 inches deep, then add a layer of soil on top. Be sure to choose rocks that are smooth and won't damage the roots of your plants.

Sand

Sand is another option for creating a drainage layer at the bottom of plant pots. It is inexpensive and easy to find, but keep in mind that sand does not provide much aeration for the roots.

If using sand, make sure to choose coarse sand, and avoid using fine sand that can compact easily, which can lead to poor drainage.

In Conclusion

Choosing what to put in the bottom of your plant pot is an important step to ensure the healthy growth of your plants. Consider using gravel, perlite, coconut coir, pebbles or rocks, or sand to create a layer of drainage at the bottom of your pot. Remember to also use good quality soil for the best results.