How To Plant In Pots Without Drainage Holes? [4 Steps]

It may seem impossible to place a plant in a pot that doesn't have drainage holes. But you don't have to pass up on a gorgeous container for your new orchid, cactus, or small tree because it lacks drainage holes.

Wondering how to make a pot with no drainage holes work for your plants? You're in luck! You don't need to drill holes in your favorite container. We've researched the best method to keep your container intact and your plants healthy.

You can successfully place a plant in a pot without drainage holes by following these steps:

1. Gather a pot that has drainage holes that are slightly smaller than the pot without drainage holes.
2. Place gravel or small stones a couple of inches deep at the bottom of the larger pots, depending on the size of the pot.
3. Plant your plant in the smaller pot that has drainage holes.
4. Put the smaller pot on top of the layer of material inside the larger container. 

Other methods of making a beautiful container without drainage holes work for your plant. Continue to discover more helpful solutions.

Planting Pots in Containers Without Drainage Holes

Thankfully, there are plenty of smart solutions to make a container without drainage holes a pleasant home for a plant.

The easiest method may be to drill holes in a container, especially if it is made from more malleable wood, plastic, or ceramic.

However, what if the container you select might be irreparably damaged if you tried to make your own holes?

There are two tried and true methods to plant a pot in a container without drainage holes.

Method One: Pot inside of Planter

1. You will need to find a pot that is smaller than the container without drainage holes. A plastic container with drainage holes works well.
2. Gather appropriate drainage materials, such as gravel, small river stones, or found rocks, to line the bottom of the larger container. Fill the planter so that it is level and high enough to capture water overflow and stabilize the smaller container.
3. Place the smaller container atop the layer of stones, etc., and fill it with soil to anchor your plant.
4. Make sure to be careful not to overwater your plant.

Method Two: Add Drainage Material

1. Cover the bottom of a container lacking drainage holes with an even layer of small rocks, pebbles, or landscape rocks. The layer should be at least 2 to 3 inches deep.
2. Add a modest layer of horticultural charcoal on top of the landscape rocks or pebbles.
3. Fill the rest of the container halfway with sterile, well-draining potting soil. If the plant is larger, add more soil to accommodate its root system.
4. Adjust the amount of material used for each layer based on the size of the container and the plant.
5. Once the plant is anchored in its new home with enough soil, water the plant, but avoid overwatering.

What Do You Put in the Bottom of a Planter for Drainage?

There are many different options regarding the type of material that can be put at the bottom of a planter for drainage. 

Many gardeners like to place small river stones, landscape rocks, or pebbles at the bottom of a planter. A disc made of coconut fiber, plastic, or polyester over a drainage hole can also give good results.

After adding a healthy layer of rocks or a drainage disc, it is helpful to add a layer of sand or charcoal and then soil.

Foam peanuts are another alternative that can be added to the bottom of a planter to increase air circulation and drainage.

It is essential to allow a plant to drain off excess water and encourage air circulation. If a planter does not allow for proper drainage, salts can build up, standing water can breed fungus and root rot, and the plant may die.

Why Do Some Plant Pots Not Have Holes?

Planters without holes are for plants that do not require a lot of water.

Examples of plants that thrive well in a planter without drainage holes include air plants, aloe, and succulents.

Ideally, pots for plants should have drainage holes to ensure that the plant receives adequate air circulation, drains salts from the soil, and prevents root rot and fungus development.

When pots for plants do not have holes, there is a risk that the plant's roots may be underwater, or overwatering may occur if the container is not correctly lined with materials to encourage draining.

Overall, planters without holes may seem impractical and decorative, but they can be augmented to have drainage holes, or you can add drainage materials.

Should You Drill Holes in Flower Pots?

If you wish to drill holes in a ceramic flower pot, it is easier to do so. When drilling a hole in a ceramic flower pot, it is best to use a power drill and a half-inch diamond tip hole saw bit or a ceramic and glass bit.

These particular bits will help you create a smooth hole without too much effort through your flower pot.

You need to mark the center of the bottom of the pot you wish to drill a hole with a marker for visible marks.

To make the hole, place the drill bit at a 45-degree angle. Additionally, add a small amount of water to the bottom of the pot and use a low RPM when drilling the hole for the best results.

Once you carefully and slowly drill through the container, give it a rinse to ensure clean work.

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