Do I have to drill holes or put rocks in bottom of planters?

Sue
by Sue
  6 answers
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Mar 29, 2018

    do not use rocks, all containers must have drainage holes

  • Jcraw Jcraw on Mar 29, 2018

    Obviously it’s a lot easier to put some stones in the bottom to avoid drowning your plant. I put a coffee filter on top of the stones to keep the dirt from falling in between them.

    On the other hand, a hole in the bottom, and a “coaster”to contain the runoff is preferred, but cutting that hole can be tricky depending on the size and material the pot is made from.

  • Janet Coryell Smither Janet Coryell Smither on Mar 29, 2018

    Yes, to allow drainage of excess water. I use a hole and a bit of an old sponge instead of rocks.


  • Andra Andra on Mar 29, 2018

    If you're worried about plants getting too much water, I'd suggest adding rocks to the bottom, then the soil. I tend to look for planters with holes already in them. I've broken two planters attempting to drill holes (but have done so successfully on others).

  • Han11807599 Han11807599 on Mar 29, 2018

    Drainage is important. I don't always put rocks in the planters, but I do cover the drainage holes with coffee filters so any excess water can drain out, but the dirt doesn't.

  • Fiddledd224 Fiddledd224 on Mar 29, 2018

    Absolutely! Your plants need to drain after watering. Stagnant water will cause the roots to rot and kill your plant.