When it comes to planting containers, proper drainage is essential for the health of your plants.
Pots and planters with drainage holes allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot and other problems.
However, those drainage holes can also allow soil to escape, creating a mess in your home or garden. That’s why it’s important to cover the drainage holes in your pots and planters.
In this article, we’ll explore the best options for covering drainage holes to keep soil in and water flowing freely.
There are several good options to cover drainage holes in pots and planters:
1. Coffee Filters
Coffee filters are inexpensive and work well to cover drainage holes. They are also porous enough to allow water to pass through.
2. Mesh Screens
Mesh screens are durable and can be found at most home improvement stores. They work well to keep soil from escaping through the drainage holes while allowing water to pass through.
3. Gravel or Pebbles
Placing a layer of gravel or pebbles over the drainage holes can also work well to prevent soil from escaping while allowing water to drain.
4. Landscape Fabric
Landscape fabric is a permeable material that can be cut to size and placed over drainage holes. It is durable and can be reused multiple times.
5. Pottery Shards
Broken pieces of pottery can be placed over drainage holes to prevent soil from escaping. This option is especially useful if you have broken pottery lying around.
6. Plastic Mesh
Plastic mesh is another durable option that can be cut to size and placed over drainage holes. It is lightweight and easy to work with.
7. Sponges
Sponges can be cut to size and used to cover drainage holes. They are porous enough to allow water to pass through while preventing soil from escaping.
8. Corks
Cork is a natural material that can be used to cover drainage holes. It is durable and water-resistant, making it a good option for outdoor planters.
9. Pantyhose
Old pantyhose can be repurposed as a cover for drainage holes. They are stretchy enough to fit over the holes and can prevent soil from escaping.
10. Plastic Bottles for Larger Pots
Plastic bottle can be collected and repurposed to cover drainage holes in larger pots. They are lightweight, and easy to work with.
- Plastic or Rubber Grommets – plastic or rubber grommets are small rings that can be inserted into the drainage holes to prevent soil from escaping.
- Bamboo Skewers – bamboo skewers can be cut to size and used to cover drainage holes. They’re a natural and sustainable option.
- Coconut Coir – coconut coir is a natural material that can be used to cover drainage holes. It’s sustainable, biodegradable, and provides good drainage.
- Plastic Bottle Caps – plastic bottle caps can be collected and repurposed to cover drainage holes. They are small, lightweight, and easy to work with.
- Cheese Cloth – cheesecloth is a lightweight, breathable fabric that can be used to cover drainage holes. It is inexpensive and can be found at most craft stores.
Ultimately, the best option for covering drainage holes will depend on the type of plants you are growing, the size of the pot or planter, and your personal preference.
