How to Pot Up Your Plants Like a Pro
You’ve selected the perfect pots—now it’s time to bring your plants to life! Potting up plants is simple when you have the right essentials: pots, plants, quality potting compost, and proper drainage materials. Follow these straightforward steps to help your potted plants thrive.
What You’ll Need:
- Pots
- Plants
- High-quality potting compost
- Drainage screen (or similar material)
- Pot feet (optional but recommended)
- Fertiliser
- Gardening tools (hand trowel, watering can, etc.)
Step 1: Proper Drainage is Key
Place a drainage screen over the pot’s drainage holes. This helps prevent larger particles from clogging the holes, allowing water to escape freely and ensuring healthy roots. Good drainage is crucial for avoiding root rot. Be sure to avoid materials such as geo fabric, silt mesh, or weed mat, which can trap too much moisture and cause drainage problems.
Step 2: Elevate for Optimal Drainage
Position your pots on pot feet to help water drain properly from the base. Pot feet also prevent water stains from forming on your surfaces by lifting the pot slightly, promoting air circulation and better drainage.
Step 3: Use Quality Potting Compost
Fill the pot with premium potting compost, packing it lightly as you go to create a solid foundation for your plants. There’s no need for gravel or other drainage layers at the bottom—high-quality compost provides the right balance for drainage and root growth. Avoid garden soil, which can hold too much water and lead to waterlogging or plant failure.
Step 4: Planting with Care
Gently remove your plant from its nursery pot. When planting, ensure the compost in your pot sits at the same level as the plant’s existing soil. Keep the stem or crown exposed, as covering it could cause problems. Water the pot immediately after planting to help the compost settle. You may need to add more compost later as the soil settles.
Step 5: Feed for Continued Growth
To give your plants a strong start, apply a diluted liquid plant feed. This will provide essential nutrients for strong, healthy growth. For a low-maintenance option, you can use a slow-release fertiliser, which will steadily nourish your plants over time.