Daily gardening tip · Southern hemisphere · Saturday 5 September 2026 · early spring
Test Container Drainage Flow
Waterlogged soil from spring rains can quickly drown your potted plants if their drainage holes are blocked.
10 minuteseasycontainers
Lift your outdoor potted plants to inspect the drainage holes underneath.
Look for thick roots growing out of the holes or tightly compacted soil blocking the opening.
Gently scrape away any clogged soil or trim excess roots blocking the exit using clean shears.
Pour a small cup of water into the pot to ensure it flows out of the bottom freely.
Elevate the pot on small pot feet or bricks if it sits flat on a solid surface to keep the holes clear.
Why it works
Plant roots need oxygen to survive. When drainage holes are blocked, water fills every air pocket in the soil, which suffocates the roots and causes them to rot.
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