Do I need to put rocks in my planter before soil & plants

Yes, it is generally recommended to put rocks or drainage material in the bottom of a planter before adding soil and plants. Here are the reasons why:

Drainage: Rocks or pebbles create a layer at the bottom of the planter that allows excess water to drain away from the roots of plants. This prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other problems.

Aeration: The rocks or pebbles create air pockets in the soil, which helps to aerate the roots. This allows oxygen to reach the roots, which is essential for healthy plant growth.

Stability: Rocks or pebbles can help to weigh down a planter and make it more stable, especially for large or heavy plants.

Types of Drainage Material: You can use a variety of materials for drainage in planters, including:

• Gravel
• Pebbles
• Expanded clay pellets
• Pumice
• Broken pottery

Amount of Drainage Material: The amount of drainage material you need depends on the size of the planter and the type of plants you are growing. A good rule of thumb is to fill the bottom of the planter with 1-2 inches of drainage material.

Tips for Using Rocks in Planters:

• Choose clean, inert rocks that will not release chemicals into the soil.
• Wash the rocks thoroughly before using them.
• Make sure the drainage holes in the planter are large enough to allow water to drain freely.
• Cover the drainage material with a thin layer of landscaping fabric or filter fabric to prevent soil from washing away.