How to Provide Drainage in an Indoor Planter
If you rely on wilting as a sign that your plants need watering, you may be surprised to learn that over watering plants is just as likely to cause wilting as under watering them. Without good drainage, sitting water chokes out oxygen to the roots causing the plant to wilt. Soggy soil also promotes root rot, a condition where roots turn to mush and the plant dies. Providing adequate drainage promotes healthy growth and reduces the risk of disease. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Check the drainage holes in your plant pots and planters before filling the pot with soil. This is especially important for planters that have been used outside, as the holes can get clogged with soil and garden debris. Holes should be free of residue to allow good drainage.
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Drill holes in the bottom of the pot, if it does not have drainage holes. Small 6-inch pots or planters need two to four holes, whereas, larger planters may require six or more.
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Cover the drainage holes with a section of screen. This allows water to drain through the holes, but prevents the loss of soil as you water your plants.
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Add a layer of pebbles, rocks or broken shards of old pots. This creates a space for water to drain and holds the roots of the plant above any standing water.
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Fill the planter three-fourths full with potting medium designed for the type of plant you are growing. Formulas range from all-purpose soils to special mixes for cacti or succulents. Browse the plant supply aisle in your hardware store and select the mixture appropriate for your plants.
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Add plants to the planter and fill in around the roots with soil. Firm the soil down around the roots to secure the plant.
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Place the planter in a saucer, if it does not have a catch tray for water. Water thoroughly until water runs free from the bottom of the pot.
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Follow the instructions for watering your specific plants. Needs vary depending on the species. As a rule, houseplants prefer soil that dries slightly between watering, but some prefer moist soil while others prefer dry soil. Check the plant identification tag for details on watering.
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Tips & Warnings
Water plants until water runs free from the bottom of the pot to prevent the buildup of salts in the soil.
Empty the saucer or catch basin under the pot after one or two minutes. The University of Connecticut Extension office explains that allowing water to remain in the saucer will keep soil moist and may cause root rot.
The Michigan State University recommends watering your plants with tepid water and warns that repeatedly watering the plant at the crown may cause root rot. Pour water directly onto the soil to prevent damage to the crown.
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- Photo Credit Watering can and young plants in a flower pot image by yusia from Fotolia.com
