It is a common mistake to make.
Mia O’Hare Showbiz Reporter
15:51, 23 Mar 2026
Anyone buying new plant pots has been urged to remember 1 step(Image: Sally Anscombe via Getty Images)
Spring presents a perfect opportunity to venture into the garden and introduce some fresh additions. Numerous gardeners will be visiting their local garden centres or homeware stores to purchase new containers and planters for their outdoor areas.
Introducing a few new containers of flowers or herbs can immediately revitalise a space. Nevertheless, one gardening enthusiast has advised anyone purchasing new plant containers this spring to complete one essential task before adding any flowers.
Sophie, who provides guidance and recommendations online @lookinsidemygarden, stated: “You must do this.”
The gardening specialist explained that anyone selecting new containers must remember to create drainage holes. It’s simple to become enthusiastic when preparing new plant containers and overlook checking whether they possess adequate drainage.
Certain containers arrive with holes in the base already, though many don’t. Consequently, it’s vital to invert your container and inspect it before filling with compost, reports the Express.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
Plants require drainage so moisture can flow through without waterlogging the roots.
Sophie remarked: “Spring sunshine is out and people are buying new pots, and yes, you must add drainage holes to every single pot you are growing in. I always add an upturned plastic pot to the bottom of my pots to stop the holes getting clogged and blocked with compost.”
Sophie showed how to drill holes in her plastic plant containers. She simply created multiple holes in the container’s base by turning it over and using a drill.
The horticulturist created holes in the base of the pot every few inches. This straightforward task will guarantee significantly better flowering displays this spring and summer.
Drainage holes permit surplus water to drain away and stop soil from becoming saturated. When soil stays excessively moist, it can trigger root rot, fungal growth and potentially kill the plant.
Without adequate drainage, roots cannot obtain oxygen from the soil. Should you wish to utilise a plant container lacking drainage openings, it’s advisable to employ a liner pot.
Maintain the plant in a plastic container featuring drainage openings, then place it inside the ornamental pot without holes.
Water will flow through the plastic container, with any surplus collecting at the bottom of the decorative one.
Comments are closed.