Review your pot plants

Outdoor plants in pots use a lot more water than plants in the ground. They are more exposed to sun and wind, only have a small amount of potting mix to store water in and they dry out faster.

If you need to minimise water for your garden, one solution is to reduce your pot plants. Cuttings and nursery plants should be put into the ground in autumn, or spring in Northern Australia. Pot plants on terraces and small spaces that you really love should be collected together out of the wind and preferably in shade over summer. This will reduce not only the water you use, but the time you need to spend watering.

The biggest problem with pot plants and raised beds is the soil drying out and becoming resistant to water. Wetting agents can reduce pot watering by 50 percent and water storage products in the soil will also extend periods between watering.

When you water, put the entire pot into a bucket or container of water, and leave it there until no more bubbles come from the potting mix. Then take it out and let it drain (ideally back into a container so the excess water can be reused). 

The right plant, for example a succulent, in good quality potting mix with soil additives such as water crystals and wetting agents, mulch and a glazed pot will tolerate extended dry periods and can look fantastic.

Remember, when planting your pot plants in the ground, their roots can enter pipes, damage your plumbing and cause blockages. Before planting any plants in your garden we recommend that you talk to your local nursery about what to plant and where to plant it to better protect your pipes.