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Why Self-Watering Pots Could Kill Your Indoor Plants
Self-watering pots might sound like a dream come true for busy plant owners, and many are attracted to the idea of not having to regularly water or check in on their plants. But could it be too good to be true? Read on to learn about why self-watering planters could be detrimental--and discover a better solution for potting your plants.
Problems with Self-Watering Containers
The primary risk of self-watering pots is the lack of proper drainage and airflow. Roots can easily extend through the pot's drainage holes into the reservoir, leaving them submerged and stagnant in water, eventually leading to rot. Unfortunately, most self-watering pots don’t provide a mechanism to remove excess water, exacerbating this problem.
Other issues that may arise with self-watering pots are mold, fungus gnats, or other pests.
Why Staging is the Superior Choice
At Léon & George, we've found that the best method to ensure plant health is a technique called staging. Rather than planting directly into decorative pots (self-watering or not), staging involves keeping the plant in its original plastic nursery pot--which always have excellent drainage holes--and simply placing it into a decorative container.
This straightforward method provides numerous advantages:
- Excellent Drainage: Water moves freely through the nursery pot, significantly reducing the risk of root rot.
- Easy Maintenance: Need to give your plant a thorough watering or a quick rinse? Simply lift the nursery pot out and shower your plant in the sink or bathtub. Your plants will love you for it!
- Simple Repotting: Checking if your plant is ready for a larger pot is easy—roots visible through the nursery pot drainage holes are a clear sign that your plant is thriving and ready to move up!
- Mess-Free Plant Care: Staging keeps things neat and tidy, making plant care simpler and stress-free.
Elevating Your Plant Care
For those who tend to overwater, we recommend slightly elevating the nursery pot inside the decorative pot using a wood plank, styrofoam block, or similar water-resistant material. This ensures your beloved greenery is never "standing" in water, further protecting it from root rot and encouraging healthy growth.
And to finish the look, nothing beats a layer of lush, natural forest moss—green, clean, and ideal for adding a polished aesthetic while allowing your plant’s soil to breathe.
Say Goodbye to Self-Watering Gimmicks
While "self-watering" containers may advertise convenience, the hidden cost is too often your plant’s health. Staging your indoor plants offers you peace of mind, aesthetic flexibility, and most importantly, vibrant and flourishing greenery.
Choose staging—your plants will thank you!
