Drainage Holes Matter (Skip the Bricks)
I’ve seen it all… pebbles, rocks, broken terracotta, even bricks at the bottom of pots.
And I want to say this first… I don’t judge. At all.
Most of us learned this from someone we love. Maybe a parent, maybe a grandparent. It’s one of those plant care tips that has been passed down for years, and honestly, it comes from a good place. We’re just trying to take care of our plants the best way we know how.
But over time, I’ve learned something important…
Adding rocks or pebbles to the bottom of your pot does not actually improve drainage.
So what’s really happening?
When we add a layer of rocks at the bottom of a pot, we think we’re helping water “drain better.”
But in reality, water doesn’t move that way.
Instead, water tends to sit above that layer, creating what’s called a perched water table. That means moisture stays closer to the roots longer than we expect.
So what does that lead to?
Less space for roots to grow
Water sitting where the roots are
Confusion when watering (are we overwatering or underwatering?)
And the hardest part… we usually don’t notice the issue until the plant starts declining.
What actually helps your plant thrive?
Drainage holes. Always.
This is the one thing that truly allows excess water to escape and gives your roots the balance they need between moisture and airflow.
Healthy roots need both.
But what about decorative pots?
I know… most of the beautiful pots don’t come with drainage (I wish they did).
Here’s what I recommend to my clients:
Keep your plant in a nursery pot (the plastic pot it comes in) and place it inside your decorative pot.
When you water:
Let the water fully drain out
Don’t let your plant sit in water for too long
Dump any excess water from the decorative pot
If your pot does have drainage holes, even better. Just add a tray underneath to catch the water.
My Final Thoughts
This is one of those small changes that makes a big difference.
Once you skip the rocks and focus on proper drainage, watering becomes easier, your confidence grows, and your plants have a much better chance of thriving.
And that’s always the goal.
If you’ve been adding pebbles to your pots, you’re not alone. Now you know better… and your plants are going to love you for it.
Have plant questions? Leave them below, I’m here to help 🌿