There is great joy in potting up a plant and watching it thrive the way you had intended. Unfortunately, all too often we are left scratching our heads as we watch another plant wither away in a beautiful pot. Avoid the common mistakes when potting up plants and follow these simple steps to give your plant the best chance in their new homes.
What you need:
- Pot
- Plant
- Good quality potting mix
- Sheet of drainage mesh.
- Pot Feet
Step 1. SELECT YOUR POT
Selecting the right pot for the right space requires careful consideration. Measure the space to ensure your pot fits well into its new home. Our size chart will ensure you fit the perfect pot into your space. Consider existing colour schemes and shapes when selecting your pot shape and colour.
Step 2. DRAINAGE
Place 4 pot feet underneath the pot to elevate slightly off the ground. This allows excess water to drain freely and prevent root rot and waterlogging. Air circulating underneath your pot will keep your plant happy and healthy. Next place a single sheet of mesh over the drainage hole. Use a non corrosive mesh with similar density to fly screen. Nylon and fibreglass mesh are recommended. Avoid using any fabrics as it may clog with silt and soil.
Adding layers of drainage material at the bottom of your pot will not help drainage. Read here for the science of it all.
Step 3. POTTING MIX
Now your pot is ready to fill. Add a premium potting mix to the level of the base of the plant, compacting gently as you fill. Consider the plants you are using when selecting a potting mix. There are specialised potting mixes available for certain plant types e.g. Succulents, orchids and natives.
Step 4. PLANTING
Selecting a plant can be both fun and confusing at times. There is much to consider including aspect, mature size, light and water requirements. Our plant selection guide can help you make this choice. Now that the winning plant has been chosen, carefully remove the plant from its grow container and place into the pot. Fill in around the root ball with potting mix and gently compact. Fill soil to the top of the root ball of the plant and water in. Top up any soil that may have sunk from watering.
