How to Use a Planter with Drip Tray Indoors

Quick answer

Use a planter with drip tray by watering until water drains into the tray, then empty the tray after 30 minutes to prevent root rot.

How to water your plant in a planter with drip tray

1. Check the soil first: Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still moist, wait a day or two. Overwatering is the most common mistake; always check soil before adding water.
2. Water slowly and evenly: Pour water onto the soil surface, not directly onto the plant leaves. Continue until you see water start to seep out of the drainage hole into the drip tray. Stop watering as soon as water appears in the tray—excess beyond that is wasted.
3. Empty the drip tray after 30 minutes: After half an hour, pour out any water left in the tray. If the soil has absorbed it all, you're good. If not, your plant got enough and the rest can be discarded. Leaving water in the tray overnight can cause root rot and attract fungus gnats.

Featured planters

• Put It Where The Direct Sun Don't Shine Planter w/ Drip Tray: Includes a drain plug & drip tray (that also functions as a lid) for even the most discerning of plant people. The dual-purpose tray means you can use it as a lid to keep soil moist between waterings or as a standard drip tray.

  

• Into Pot Planter w/ Drip Tray: Includes a drain plug & drip tray for even the most discerning of plant people. The drain plug lets you control whether water flows into the tray or stays in the pot, giving you flexibility for different plant needs.