How to Prevent Houseplants From Damaging the Carpet

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Houseplants soften the decor inside a home, giving it a lived-in look. However, large plants sitting directly on the floor can cause significant damage to carpets due to condensation or leakage. Here is a simple remedy to prevent that from happening in your home.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Clear Plastic Sheeting
Saucer Feet
Scissors
Lumber
Saws

Step1

Place indoor plants in a saucer to collect run-off water. Saucers can be made of clay or plastic.

Step2

Lift the saucer a few inches off the floor by placing blocks of 2 x 4" wood between the saucer and the carpet. Condensation forms when there is no air circulation between the carpet and the saucer creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to form.

Step3

Insulate the plant even further by cutting a round piece of plastic sheeting to fit between the saucer and the wood blocks.

Step4

Remove any standing water from the saucer 1/2 hour after watering the plant to prevent spilling.

Tips & Warnings

Saucer feet are available from nurseries and garden centers. They are made of clay and fit between the saucer and the floor. More decorative than the wood blocks, they perform the same function.

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Comments

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Plants such as Split-leaf Philodendron (Monstera deliciosa) with aerial roots will attempt to burrow into your carpet. If this happens, it is safe to cut off the offending root.

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