Pots With Drainage Holes vs Without Drainage Holes - The Pros and Cons

All plant parents have been there. You've found the perfect pot -- with one exception, there's no drainage hole. You ask yourself, Does my plant really need pots with drainage holes? The short answer is no, plants can survive in pots without drainage holes. We're going to walk through the pros and cons of using pots with drainage holes or without drainage holes.

Pots With Drainage Holes - Pros

• Air & Water Flow: Water can freely drain through the bottom of the pot allowing the roots to have access to adequate air flow.
• Prevents Salt Build Up: If you fertilize your plants, the excess salt from the fertilizer can drain out of the bottom hole.

Pots With Drainage Holes - Cons

• Need a Saucer: With water draining through the bottom of the pot, you'll need a saucer to collect the water.
• Loss of Soil: With water constantly flowing through the drainage hole, it's going to bring soil with it.

Pots Without Drainage Holes - Pros

• No Leaking Water: You don't have to worry about water draining out of the bottom hole onto the surface your pot's placed upon.
• Aesthetics: Typically there are more aesthetically appealing pots without drainage than pots with drainage holes.

Pots Without Drainage Holes - Cons

• Overwatering: This is the biggest knock on pots without drainage holes. Overwatering will lead to root rot and drowning your plant.
  Click here to learn how to water houseplants in pots without drainage holes.
• Mildew / Salt Build Up: With no where for excess salt or mildew to drain, you'll have to change your plants soil more frequently. 
  Click here to learn how to repot your houseplants here.
  
  

Have further questions about the pros and cons of using pots with drainage holes or without drainage holes? Contact our team of greenhouse experts here!