Ultimate FAQs Guide to Plant Saucers and Planter Options

If you’re searching around for quality Plant Pots & Saucers and don’t know where to get started, Nursery and Garden Supplies NZ is here to help!

We’ve made a list of the most common questions and answers that we think you need to know about.

What Can I Use Instead of Plant Saucers?

If you don’t have traditional plant saucers, don’t worry—there are plenty of creative and cost-effective alternatives to catch excess water from your planters. Here are some ideas:

1. Trays or Shallow Dishes
   Everyday kitchen items like baking trays, pie tins, or old plates can make excellent substitutes for plant saucers. These options are readily available in most households and can be repurposed easily. Look for trays or dishes that are slightly larger than the base of your planter to effectively catch water without spilling. For an added decorative touch, you can use colourful or patterned plates to complement your plant’s aesthetic.
2. Pebble Trays
   A pebble tray is both functional and stylish. Fill a shallow tray with small pebbles or stones and add water until it just covers the bottom of the tray. Place the planter on top of the pebbles, ensuring the pot doesn’t sit directly in the water. This method not only prevents water from pooling under your pot but also creates a humid microclimate around the plant, which is beneficial for certain species, such as ferns and tropical plants.
3. Plastic Lids
   Reusing plastic lids from jars, tubs, or containers is an eco-friendly way to catch excess water. Plastic lids are durable, easy to clean, and come in various sizes, making them a convenient option for small to medium-sized pots. Choose lids with a slightly raised edge to prevent water from overflowing.
4. DIY Solutions
   Get creative with items you already have at home!
   • Cut the Bottom Off a Sturdy Plastic Bottle: This creates a lightweight and waterproof saucer that can easily catch water.
   • Repurpose Shallow Containers: Takeaway boxes, food storage containers, or small baking pans can work perfectly. For added flair, you can decorate or paint these containers to match your plant setup.
5. Other Innovative Ideas
   • Coasters: Use large, waterproof coasters, such as those made from cork or ceramic, as makeshift saucers.
   • Upcycled Materials: Old tiles, pieces of slate, or even upcycled tin cans (flattened and shaped) can act as water catchers.
   • Outdoor Options: For garden plants, use natural materials like flat stones or wood slices to catch and disperse water while blending with the natural environment.

Using these alternatives not only helps you save money but also reduces waste by repurposing items you might otherwise throw away. With a bit of ingenuity, you can create functional and visually appealing solutions that suit your plants and your space.

Do Plants Do Better in Ceramic or Plastic Pots?

The choice between ceramic and plastic pots can significantly impact your plants’ health and growth. Both options have unique benefits, and the best choice depends on your plant’s specific needs, as well as the environment in which they are grown.

Ceramic Pots

Ceramic pots are often favoured for their natural and classic appearance, but they also offer practical benefits:

• Breathability: Ceramic pots are porous, allowing air to flow through the walls of the pot. This helps oxygen reach the roots and prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged, reducing the risk of root rot. This feature makes ceramic pots ideal for plants that prefer well-drained soil, such as succulents, cacti, and herbs.
• Moisture Control: Because of their porous nature, ceramic pots allow water to evaporate more quickly. This is beneficial for plants that thrive in drier conditions but may require more frequent watering for plants that need consistent moisture.
• Stability: Ceramic pots are heavier than plastic ones, which makes them less likely to tip over. This is especially useful for taller plants or outdoor settings exposed to wind.
• Insulation: While ceramic pots can regulate temperature moderately well, they may struggle to retain heat in colder climates. This can impact plants that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes, ceramic pots can enhance the visual appeal of your plants and complement your décor.
• Drawbacks: They are typically more expensive than plastic pots and can be fragile, with a higher risk of cracking or breaking if dropped or exposed to freezing temperatures.

Plastic Pots

Plastic pots are practical and versatile, offering several advantages for both indoor and outdoor gardening:

• Lightweight: Plastic pots are easy to move, making them ideal for plants that need to be repositioned frequently to catch sunlight or avoid extreme weather conditions.
• Moisture Retention: Unlike ceramic pots, plastic pots are non-porous, meaning they retain moisture for longer. This is beneficial for plants that thrive in consistently moist soil, such as ferns, peace lilies, and tropical plants.
• Affordability: Plastic pots are generally more affordable than ceramic options, making them a budget-friendly choice for large-scale gardening or frequent repotting.
• Durability: Plastic pots are resistant to cracking and are less likely to be damaged by freezing temperatures, making them suitable for outdoor use in various climates.
• Variety: Available in a wide range of sizes, colours, and shapes, plastic pots can fit into virtually any gardening setup or design preference.
• Drawbacks: Plastic pots can sometimes overheat in direct sunlight, potentially harming plant roots. They also lack the breathability of ceramic pots, which may increase the risk of overwatering if not monitored carefully.

Which is Better for Your Plant?

• Choose ceramic pots for plants that prefer drier soil and well-drained conditions, such as succulents, orchids, or Mediterranean herbs.
• Opt for plastic pots if you are growing plants that require consistent moisture, such as ferns, calatheas, or tropical species.
• Consider the environment: In hot and dry climates, plastic pots may help retain the necessary moisture, while in humid or wet conditions, ceramic pots can prevent overwatering.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on balancing the specific needs of your plants with the conditions in which they are grown. Both ceramic and plastic pots can support healthy plant growth when used thoughtfully.

Should you leave water in a plant saucer?
No, you should not leave water in a plant saucer for extended periods. While plant saucers are essential for catching excess water, leaving water to sit in the saucer can create a host of problems for your plants and your indoor or outdoor environment.

Why You Should Avoid Leaving Water in Plant Saucers

• Risk of Root Rot

1. 1. • When water remains in the saucer, the soil at the bottom of the pot can become overly saturated.
      • Prolonged exposure to waterlogged soil deprives plant roots of oxygen, leading to root rot. Root rot is a severe condition that can quickly kill a plant if left untreated.

• Fungal Growth

1. 1. • Standing water provides an ideal environment for fungal growth, which can spread to your plant’s roots and soil.
      • Over time, fungal infections may harm the plant, causing discoloured leaves, stunted growth, or other signs of distress.

• Attracting Pests

1. 1. • Stagnant water in saucers can attract pests such as mosquitoes, fungus gnats, and other insects. Mosquitoes, in particular, breed in standing water, creating a potential nuisance and health risk.
      • Fungus gnats can lay eggs in moist soil, and their larvae can damage plant roots.

• Unpleasant Odours

1. 1. • Water that sits in a saucer for too long can develop a musty or unpleasant smell, particularly if organic debris accumulates in it.

• Salt and Mineral Buildup

1. • As water evaporates, it leaves behind salts and minerals, which can accumulate in the saucer and be absorbed back into the soil. This can harm the plant, especially if the soil becomes too salty.

How to Manage Plant Saucers Properly

• Empty the Saucers Regularly

1. 1. • After watering your plants, allow the excess water to drain into the saucer and wait 10–15 minutes for the soil to finish draining. Then, empty the saucer to prevent standing water.

• Use a Pebble Tray

1. 1. • Instead of leaving water directly in the saucer, use a pebble tray. Fill the saucer with pebbles and add water just below the level of the stones. This allows the water to evaporate and increase humidity without the pot sitting in the water.

• Monitor Your Plant’s Needs

1. 1. • Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in plant care. Ensure you’re watering only when the soil is dry to the touch or as required by the specific plant species.

• Use Planters with Proper Drainage

1. 1. • Always use pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Pair these pots with appropriately sized saucers to catch runoff without overloading the base.

• Consider Self-Watering Pots

• If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional saucers, self-watering pots are designed to keep roots hydrated without the risks associated with standing water.

By properly managing the water in plant saucers, you can ensure your plants remain healthy and free from diseases, pests, and other complications caused by standing water. This simple step can make a significant difference in the long-term success of your gardening efforts.

Are attached saucers good for plants?

Attached saucers, which are built directly into the base of a pot, can be a convenient solution for catching excess water from watering. However, while they offer some clear advantages, they also come with potential drawbacks that may impact your plants’ health if not managed properly.

Advantages of Attached Saucers

1. Prevents Water Spillage
   • Attached saucers are designed to catch excess water that drains from the pot, preventing spills on surfaces such as floors, furniture, or countertops. This makes them particularly useful for indoor plants.
2. Reduces Mess
   • By keeping water contained, attached saucers help maintain a clean and tidy space around your plants. They’re especially beneficial in high-traffic areas or for people who prefer low-maintenance plant setups.
3. Convenience
   • With the saucer integrated into the pot, there’s no need to buy or match a separate saucer, simplifying your planting setup.
4. Aesthetically Pleasing
   • Many attached saucer designs are sleek and streamlined, contributing to a cleaner, more cohesive look for your plants.

Disadvantages of Attached Saucers

1. Trapped Water
   • One of the biggest issues with attached saucers is that they can trap water. Since the saucer is permanently affixed to the pot, it can be challenging to remove excess water effectively. This creates a higher risk of:
     • Root Rot: When water sits in the saucer, it can seep back into the soil, leaving roots waterlogged.
     • Fungal Growth: Standing water encourages fungal infections that can spread to the soil and roots.
2. Limited Ventilation
   • Water in attached saucers doesn’t evaporate as quickly as in separate saucers, especially if the saucer is enclosed or poorly ventilated. This can exacerbate moisture-related issues.
3. Difficult to Clean
   • Cleaning an attached saucer can be tricky, especially if dirt, mineral deposits, or algae build up over time. Removing debris from narrow gaps or enclosed designs may require extra effort.
4. Inflexibility
   • Unlike detachable saucers, which can be swapped out or replaced, attached saucers are a fixed feature. If the saucer becomes damaged or unsuitable, the entire pot may need to be replaced.

Tips for Minimising Risks with Attached Saucers

1. Monitor Water Levels
   • After watering, check the attached saucer for excess water. If water collects at the bottom, tilt the pot gently to pour it out.
2. Use a Layer of Pebbles or Gravel
   • Add a layer of pebbles or gravel between the soil and the base of the pot to create a buffer. This can help prevent roots from sitting directly in standing water.
3. Water Carefully
   • Avoid overwatering by only adding enough water to moisten the soil. Use pots with drainage holes above the level of the attached saucer to minimise the amount of water that collects.
4. Choose Pots with Smart Design
   • Look for pots with attached saucers that have drainage holes leading to an accessible reservoir, allowing excess water to flow out of the soil without saturating it.
5. Regular Cleaning
   • Periodically clean the saucer to remove any debris, salts, or algae that may accumulate. This helps maintain a healthier environment for your plants.

When Are Attached Saucers a Good Option?

• Indoor Settings: They work well in indoor environments where preventing water spills and maintaining a tidy appearance is a priority.
• Low-Water Plants: Plants like succulents or cacti, which require minimal watering, are less likely to suffer from issues related to water retention in the saucer.

While attached saucers can be a convenient and visually appealing option, they require careful management to avoid water-related problems. By monitoring and maintaining them properly, you can ensure they provide the benefits you need without compromising the health of your plants.

Do you need to empty plant saucers?

Yes, plant saucers should be emptied after watering to maintain the health of your plants and prevent potential issues. While saucers are essential for catching excess water and protecting surfaces, allowing water to sit in them for prolonged periods can create several problems. Here’s a closer look at why it’s important to empty plant saucers and how to manage them effectively.

Why Should You Empty Plant Saucers?

1. Prevents Waterlogging and Root Rot
   • When water accumulates in a saucer, it can seep back into the soil through the drainage holes, causing the soil to remain excessively wet.
   • Prolonged waterlogging deprives plant roots of oxygen, leading to root rot—a common and often fatal condition for plants.
2. Reduces Fungal and Bacterial Growth
   • Standing water creates a damp environment that promotes the growth of fungi and bacteria. These pathogens can spread to the soil and roots, negatively affecting plant health.
3. Minimises Pest Issues
   • Stagnant water in saucers can attract pests such as mosquitoes, fungus gnats, and other insects.
   • Fungus gnats, in particular, lay eggs in moist soil, and their larvae can damage plant roots, stunting growth.
4. Prevents Salt and Mineral Buildup
   • Water left in saucers often contains salts and minerals that can accumulate as the water evaporates.
   • Over time, this buildup can be reabsorbed into the soil, altering its pH and potentially harming your plants.
5. Eliminates Unpleasant Odours
   • Stale water in saucers can develop a musty or foul smell, especially if organic debris like leaves or soil collects in it.

How to Properly Manage Plant Saucers

1. Empty Saucers Regularly
   • After watering, allow the soil to drain for about 15–30 minutes. Then, empty the saucer to prevent water from sitting for too long.
2. Use Pebble Trays for Humidity-Loving Plants
   • For plants that thrive in high humidity, such as ferns, peace lilies, or calatheas, you can leave a small amount of water in the saucer if it contains a layer of pebbles.
   • The pebbles elevate the pot above the water, preventing root contact while allowing the water to evaporate and create a more humid environment around the plant.
3. Choose Pots with Good Drainage
   • Use pots with drainage holes to ensure excess water can escape into the saucer. Paired with regular saucer emptying, this helps prevent water from pooling at the base of the pot.
4. Clean Saucers Periodically
   • Wash your saucers occasionally to remove any buildup of salts, minerals, or algae. This keeps the saucers hygienic and reduces the risk of reintroducing harmful substances into the soil.
5. Monitor Watering Habits
   • Avoid overwatering your plants, as excess water will inevitably fill the saucer. Check the soil moisture level before watering to ensure you’re only giving the plant as much water as it needs.

Exceptions: When You Can Leave Water in the Saucer

• Humidity Needs: For plants that require a humid environment, leaving a small amount of water in a pebble-filled saucer is beneficial. Ensure the pot is not sitting directly in the water to avoid waterlogging.
• Outdoor Plants: In very hot or dry weather, outdoor plants may benefit from temporary water retention in saucers, as it can help maintain soil moisture longer. However, even in this case, the water should not sit for extended periods.

By consistently emptying your plant saucers and using them thoughtfully, you can avoid common problems like root rot, pests, and salt buildup. This simple maintenance step helps create a healthier environment for your plants and ensures their long-term growth and vitality.

 

How big should a saucer be under a planter?

The size of a saucer under a planter is important for both practicality and aesthetics. Ideally, a saucer should be slightly larger than the base of the planter—usually about 1 to 2 inches wider in diameter. This ensures it can catch excess water effectively without overflowing, while also maintaining a snug and visually balanced fit beneath the pot.

Why the Right Size Matters

1. Effective Water Catchment
   • A saucer that’s too small may not catch all the excess water that drains from the planter, leading to potential messes on your floors, furniture, or outdoor surfaces.
   • A correctly sized saucer ensures that all runoff water is contained, protecting surfaces from water damage.
2. Maintains Aesthetic Balance
   • A saucer that is too large can look disproportionate and distract from the overall appearance of the plant and planter. On the other hand, one that is too small may not provide adequate coverage, compromising both function and appearance.
   • Choosing a saucer that matches the diameter of the planter base creates a clean, cohesive look.
3. Prevents Overflow
   • If the saucer is too small, water may overflow during watering, especially for larger pots. A saucer that’s slightly wider than the base provides a buffer to accommodate excess water without spilling over.
4. Protects Surrounding Surfaces
   • Larger saucers offer more coverage, ensuring no water seeps past the edges and onto surrounding surfaces like wooden floors, carpets, or outdoor decking.

Tips for Selecting the Right Saucer Size

1. Measure the Planter’s Base
   • Before purchasing a saucer, measure the diameter of your planter’s base. Add 1 to 2 inches to this measurement to determine the appropriate saucer size.
2. Consider Depth
   • The saucer’s depth is just as important as its width. For larger planters, choose deeper saucers to accommodate the higher volume of water that may drain out.
3. Account for Plant Size
   • Larger plants typically require more water, which means more runoff. Ensure the saucer size is proportional not only to the planter but also to the plant’s watering needs.
4. Use a Pebble Layer for Humidity
   • For plants that benefit from increased humidity, you can use a slightly larger saucer and add a layer of pebbles to hold water. This creates a humid microclimate while keeping the pot elevated above the water level.

Customising Saucer Options

If finding a perfectly sized saucer is challenging, consider these alternatives:

• Oversized Saucers with Decorative Fillers: Use an oversized saucer and add decorative pebbles, stones, or moss around the pot to fill the extra space.
• Custom-Made or Adjustable Options: Some retailers offer adjustable or custom saucers to fit unique pot shapes and sizes.

By selecting a saucer that’s just the right size—neither too small nor excessively large—you can ensure your plants stay healthy, your spaces remain clean, and your setup looks aesthetically pleasing. This simple detail can make a big difference in your plant care routine and overall décor.