6 Reasons Your Flower Pot Might be Killing Your Plant

6 Reasons Your Flower Pot Might be Killing Your Plant

Have you planted flowers only to find them wilted and void of life? Taking the time to plant flowers in containers and flower pots only for them to end up dying can be frustrating. But before you give up, consider the fact that the flower pot might be killing your plant.

There are several aspects you must keep in mind when planting in containers and flower pots, as one small error can cause your plant to die. If you plan on container gardening this spring season, look below at 6 reasons your flower pot might be killing your plant. With a few simple fixes, you can ensure their success.

1. Disinfect pots prior to planting:

If you save and reuse flower pots from year to year, you need to be sure you are disinfecting them prior to use. Germs and decay from the previous year can still be present in the pot, and disease can spread to any healthy plants you put into the pot. Instead, wash each pot with hot water and an antibacterial soap or vinegar and then give a good rinse.

2. Make sure your pots have proper drainage holes:

You never want the roots of your plants to drown or rot. Sitting water can cause this to happen fast. Be sure your flower pot has several drainage holes at the bottom so water can work its way through and never sits and pools. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes you can make some with a drill.

3. Soil should be layered along with some gravel for proper drainage:

Try placing some gravel at the bottom of the pot before you add the soil. This will create another barrier that can help with drainage. Sometimes, simple potting soil isn’t enough. Create the layers as mentioned and your pot will be able to accommodate regular watering better.

4. Make sure the flower pot is large enough for what you are planting:

A common mistake people make is planting in a pot that is too small. The flower pot you choose should be twice as wide and twice as deep as the size of the root ball of the plant. Be careful to not stuff plants into the pot to make it look full. Instead, allow the plants to grow and flourish and fill out as they do.

5. Toss away any pots that show signs of mold or mildew:

If you pull out an old flower pot and it shows signs or mold or mildew, toss it. If you plant items in the pot disease can spread and your plants can quickly die. Be careful to look for signs of mold and mildew on pots before planting and avoid spreading disease.

6. Keep a saucer under the pot to help keep the roots moist:

Most flower pots come with a saucer, so be sure to use it. The saucer can help keep the plant moist and help it to make the most of the water you feed it. Drain the saucer if you see water is pooling.

Don’t let your flower pot choice kill the plants you worked so hard to grow. Instead, keep in mind these 6 reasons your flower pot might be killing your plants and see what a difference they can make.

Do you know any other reasons your flower pot might be killing your plant? Feel free to leave it in the comments.

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