Things You'll Need

Instructions

1

Line the bottom of the pot with a coffee filter. Alternatively, cut a piece of fine wire mesh screen material to fit the inside of the pot. The filter or mesh keeps the soil in the pot while allowing water to drain freely.
2

Set the pot on top a drip tray. Use a drip tray with a 1- to 2-inch lip that is slightly wider than the flower pot.
3

Empty the drip tray 30 minutes after watering. Standing water is harmful to plants. Waiting 30 minutes allows the plant to drain completely so water doesn't spill out when you remove the tray.
4

Elevate large pots that are difficult to move after watering above the drip tray. Place two bricks on the tray, and set the pot on top, positioning it so the bricks don't block the drainage holes. Water drains into the tray but can't be reabsorbed by the plant soil. Allow the water to evaporate, or suck it from the drip tray with a wet-dry vacuum.