How to Pot Up Your Plants Like a Pro

October 29, 2024

Bring Your Pots to Life: A Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect pots, it’s time to get your plants settled in! Potting up plants is a straightforward process when you have the right materials: pots, plants, quality potting compost, and proper drainage. Follow these steps to ensure your potted plants look fantastic and thrive for years to come.

What You’ll Need:

Pots
Plants
High-quality potting mix
Drainage screen (or a similar material)
Pot feet (optional but recommended)
Fertiliser
Gardening tools (hand trowel, watering can, etc.)

Step 1: Ensure Proper Drainage

Start by placing a drainage screen over the pot’s drainage holes. This helps stop larger particles from blocking the holes while allowing water to escape freely, which is vital for healthy roots. Good drainage is essential to avoid root rot. Avoid using materials like geo fabric, silt mesh, or weed mat, as these tend to hold too much moisture and could lead to waterlogged soil.

Step 2: Elevate for Effective Drainage

Position your pots on pot feet to help water drain properly from the bottom of the pot. Pot feet also prevent water marks from appearing on your patio or decking by lifting the pot slightly, encouraging airflow and allowing better drainage.

Step 3: Use High-Quality Potting Mix

Fill your pot with premium potting compost, packing it gently as you go to create a sturdy base for your plants. There’s no need for drainage materials like gravel at the bottom—good quality potting compost provides the ideal balance for both drainage and root growth. Avoid using garden soil, as it tends to hold too much water, which could lead to waterlogging and problems for your plants.

Step 4: Plant with Care

When removing your plant from its nursery pot, handle it gently. Make sure the potting mix in your pot sits at the same level as the soil around the plant’s stem in its original pot. Keep the stem or crown of the plant exposed, as covering it could cause damage. After planting, water thoroughly to help the compost settle. You may need to add a bit more compost later if it settles after watering.

Step 5: Feed for Continued Health

To give your plants a great start, use a diluted liquid plant feed. This provides essential nutrients that support strong, healthy growth. If you prefer an easy-care solution, a slow-release fertiliser is a great option to provide ongoing nourishment over time.