Container gardening has become a popular solution for those with limited outdoor space, such as renters or homeowners with small yards.
It offers the joy of nurturing a garden without the need for expansive soil beds. However, the convenience of pot plants comes with their own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to watering.
Traditional wisdom might suggest that watering pot plants from the top is the most straightforward method.
Yet, Joe Clark, a seasoned gardener, cautions that this common practice could be doing more harm than good to your beloved greenery.
In a video that has captured the attention of gardening enthusiasts, Clark explains a critical oversight many make with container plants.
‘Most containers will have a slight gap between the soil and inner side of the pot, this is especially the case with plastic pots.’
‘As water will always travel down the path of least resistance, it will funnel down the sides of the pot and out the drainage hole in the bottom. This can sometimes leave the middle of the root ball dry,’ he shared in an insightful Instagram post.
The root ball is the heart of the plant’s growth, as it’s where the roots absorb essential moisture and nutrients. The plant cannot thrive if it remains dry, leading to stunted growth or even death.
To combat this issue, Clark suggests two alternative watering methods, including a clever hack that has garnered much praise from his followers.
The first method is known as bottom watering, a technique familiar to many indoor plant enthusiasts. It involves placing the pot in a bowl or tray of water, allowing the plant to absorb moisture from the bottom up.
Clark takes this approach to the next level by using large metal trays to water 20 to 30 pots simultaneously.
However, for larger container plants that are too cumbersome to move, Clark recommends a second, ingenious solution. He advises gardeners to bury an empty plastic pot with drainage holes within the larger container.
By watering directly into this smaller pot, you can ensure water is funnelled to the plant’s roots, providing the hydration it desperately needs.
This advice doesn’t mean you should abandon top watering altogether, as it remains a quick and efficient way to hydrate plants.
Clark simply suggests taking the extra step to ensure the water penetrates beyond the surface by checking the soil’s moisture level with your finger.
Additionally, he encourages gardeners to try bottom watering when possible, as it can be a beneficial supplement to their plant care routine.
The plastic pot watering trick has resonated with Clark’s Instagram community, sparking a wave of positive feedback and shared experiences.
Followers have expressed their enthusiasm for the tip, with comments like ‘Love the idea to put the little pot in the big pot,’ and ‘That is so smart putting a little pot in my big pots today!!’
Clark’s advice is a testament to the importance of understanding the unique needs of pot plants. By adopting these simple yet effective watering techniques, you can ensure your container garden flourishes, bringing life and beauty to even the smallest of spaces.
We’re always on the lookout for practical tips to make life easier and more enjoyable for our readers. Have you tried Joe Clark’s watering hack, or do you have other gardening tips to share? Join the conversation in the comments below and help your fellow gardeners grow their green thumbs!
Also read: Some people are getting this garden item for free ahead of autumn
