How to Keep Potted Plants from Drowning When it Rains

If you’ve ever experienced a heavy rainstorm, you know how quickly potted plants can become waterlogged and drown. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can protect your plants from drowning and ensure they thrive, even during the rainiest of seasons. Here’s how to keep potted plants from drowning when it rains:

Choose the Right Planters

When it comes to preventing plants from drowning, selecting the right planters is crucial. Ideally, you’ll want to choose planters with good drainage holes that allow water to drain freely from the soil. If your planters don't have drainage holes, drill some holes in the bottom using a drill or awl. Also, try to choose planters that are large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and soil without becoming waterlogged. Generally, the larger the planter, the more space there is for the soil to absorb and release water.

Improve Drainage

If your planters already have drainage holes, but you’re still experiencing issues with waterlogging, you may need to improve the drainage of your soil. Consider using a soil mix that’s designed specifically for potted plants, as these generally contain more perlite, sand or vermiculite that improve drainage. You can also add a layer of pebbles or rocks at the bottom of the planter to help improve drainage as well.

Avoid Overwatering

During rainy seasons, it’s essential to be mindful of how often you’re watering your potted plants. You may need to reduce the frequency of your watering sessions and water only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to waterlogging and can prevent the plant from absorbing the necessary oxygen and nutrients it needs to thrive. Additionally, you should ensure that you are not watering the plants during, or right after, a heavy rainfall.

Use Saucers and Trays

Another effective way to keep potted plants from drowning when it rains is to use saucers or trays to catch excess water. Saucers and trays work by capturing the water that drains from the plant’s soil and holds it until the soil can absorb it back. You can also empty the water tray once the rain has stopped to prevent the plant from sitting in water for too long.

Provide Adequate Drainage During Indoor Watering

Adequate drainage during indoor watering is essential to keep plants from drowning. Once again, ensure that the pots have sufficient drainage holes. If large amounts of water end up sitting in the saucer for an extended period, remove any remaining water after thirty minutes to prevent water from being re-absorbed into the soil.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, taking care of potted plants requires some effort and attention. Keeping your plants from drowning during rainy seasons is just one small but essential step in ensuring your plants thrive. By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your potted plants stay healthy and strong even when it rains.