If you want to grow a plant in a clay pot with an 8-inch diameter, should you put rocks on the bottom before you fill it with dirt? Someone told me that if you don‘t do this, the drain hole will get clogged over time as the soil settles and becomes compacted over it.
it works, but the best way to stop clogging is to use a soil lightner (sand or vermiculite) in your soil mix. Just straight potting soil will clog and not be too good for your plants. Just about 1/4 added playground sand or vermiculite will lighten soil to most plants liking. if you want to prevent soil from leaking out of your pots, use a basket type unbleached coffee filter over the hole in the bottom before putting in the soil
Yes - rocks, pebbles or even styrofoam pellets. They serve to keep the drainage hole open for excess water to stream out freely. I see there are several folks who say to use coffee filters. With or without rocks, these trap loose soil particles and in time will clog the drainage.
I don't think it's absolutely necessary, but it's a good idea. You can also use broken up pieces of another clay pot (if one accidentally breaks). It gives the roots a little room to breathe, and it also allows for better water drainage so the soil doesn't become compacted and swampy at the bottom of the pot.
