Plant care: why you should add a coffee filter to your pots

There are so many reasons to try this. - by Livia Gamble

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Worried about dirt leaking out the bottom of your pot? There’s a simple solution: a coffee filter.

Placing a coffee filter in between the soil and the drainage hole allows excess water to drain from the pot while keeping the dirt firmly in place of your indoor plant.

As water passes through the filter it will retain moisture, giving you a little bit of extra time in between waterings (in case you forget).

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Keep in mind, overwatering is one of the most common ways to kill a houseplant. Doing so cuts off the air supply to the roots. Additionally, it can cause root rot. Ensure your pot has adequate drainage and as a rule always check the moisture levels of the soil by sticking your finger in up to your knuckle.

How often your plants need watering will depend on the type, size of the pot and environmental factors.

RELATED: How to clean your houseplants

Livia Gamble

Based in Sydney, Livia Gamble will not sleep until she has discovered every possible way to use bi-carb soda and vinegar. When she isn’t reporting on ways to improve your home and garden, she can be found knitting socks (by choice) and will never say no to pizza.