Can You Put Stones on Top of Plant Pots?

Adding stones on top of plant pots has become a popular trend in gardening these days. Some people add them for aesthetics, while others swear that it improves the health of their plants. However, there are still some individuals who question whether adding stones to the top of their plant pots is a good idea or not. In this article, we will explore this topic and provide you with information to help you decide if adding stones on top of your plant pots is right for you.

What are the Benefits of Adding Stones to the Top of Plant Pots?

Many gardeners believe that adding stones on top of their plant pots can provide a variety of benefits. Some of these benefits include:

Preventing soil erosion

Improving drainage

Enhancing aesthetics

When it comes to preventing soil erosion, adding stones on top of your plant pot can help keep the soil in place, especially during heavy rainfall. Additionally, adding stones can help improve drainage by allowing water to drain more easily from the soil. This can be particularly important for plants that require well-draining soil to thrive.

Finally, adding stones can help enhance the aesthetics of your plant pot. Adding stones can help create contrast and add texture to your garden, making it more visually appealing.

What are the Drawbacks of Adding Stones to the Top of Plant Pots?

While there are many benefits to adding stones to the top of your plant pots, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Some of these drawbacks include:

Increased weight

Increased evaporation

Potential for root rot

One of the main drawbacks of adding stones to the top of plant pots is increased weight. This can make moving the plant pot more challenging, especially for larger plants. Additionally, adding stones on top can increase evaporation, causing the soil to dry out faster, which can be detrimental to your plants.

Another potential issue with adding stones to the top of your plant pots is the risk of root rot. If water becomes trapped between the stones and the soil, this can create an environment that is ideal for root rot to develop, which can ultimately harm the health of your plants.

When Should You Consider Adding Stones to the Top of Your Plant Pots?

If you are considering adding stones on top of your plant pot, there are a few situations where it may be a good idea:

You live in an area with heavy rainfall

Your plants require well-draining soil

You want to add texture and contrast to your garden

If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or your plants require well-draining soil, adding stones on top of your plant pot can help prevent soil erosion and improve drainage. Additionally, if you want to add texture and contrast to your garden, adding stones on top of your plant pot can be a great way to do so.

Final Thoughts

Adding stones to the top of plant pots can provide many benefits, including preventing soil erosion, improving drainage, and enhancing aesthetics. However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider, including increased weight, increased evaporation, and the potential for root rot. Ultimately, whether you decide to add stones to the top of your plant pot will depend on your specific situation and what you hope to achieve with your garden.