This is what goes wrong when you don't have holes in your plant pot

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This is what goes wrong when you don't have holes in your plant pot

This is what goes wrong when you don't have holes in your plant pot

You might recognize this: you're standing in a store with a beautiful pot or container in your hands, but you notice there aren't any holes in the bottom. Is that a problem? Not necessarily, but it can have serious consequences. This is what can go wrong if your planter or container doesn't have holes.

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You can help prevent root rot in houseplants by placing your plant in an indoor pot.
Photo: Jason Ingram.

Whether you have a beautiful houseplant or are transforming your patio or balcony into a potted garden, good drainage is important for all your plants. If excess water remains, the roots can rot, and that's often the end of the story (although there are sometimes ways to save your plant if you've overwatered it ). Drainage holes in pots and containers allow excess water to drain away, while still allowing your plant to absorb water.

Tip!

Read also watering houseplants
Watering houseplants difficult? Here are the basic tips.

Found a container or pot you like, but it doesn't have drainage holes? Don't panic, there are a few things you can do:

Two hands place an anthurium in a plastic inner pot in a larger decorative pot.
Use a potting mix with drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Photo: Jason Ingram.

For houseplants, an indoor pot with drainage holes can be a good solution if your decorative pot doesn't have holes. For example, use the plastic pot you bought the plant in and place it in a decorative pot. This method is less suitable for outdoor plants during heavy rainy seasons, as water can accumulate in decorative pots during heavy downpours. In that case, remove them from their decorative pot or saucer to allow the water to drain.

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Make your own drainage holes if the pot or container you choose doesn't have them. Photo: Sarah Cuttle.

It takes a bit of work, but it's worth it: by making drainage holes in your plant pots yourself, you can be sure excess water can drain properly. Depending on the material, you may need other tools, such as a drill or a hammer and nail (or a pin, as shown in the photo). Be careful with ceramic, as it can crack easily.

Read also gardening in containers - create your dream garden
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watering houseplants
Photo: Jason Ingram

It's not impossible to keep plants in pots without drainage holes. However, it's especially important to keep checking the potting soil and your plant. If there's standing water, it won't be noticeable until the roots are already damaged. Therefore, give your plant a plant MOT every now and then, water in small amounts, and feel the soil for moisture before watering by pressing your fingers a few centimeters into the soil (not just the top layer, as that dries out faster!). If the soil feels dry, your plant needs more water.

Read also You can help prevent root rot in houseplants by placing your plant in an indoor pot.
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Complete guide to houseplants

Houseplants are incredibly popular. But how do you care for them? Where should you put each plant, and can you take cuttings or sow seeds yourself? We've collaborated with top experts to create this special edition of Gardeners' World, so you'll soon have the answers to these and many other questions. Let's create an indoor jungle!

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Complete guide to houseplants
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