If you’ve ever filled the bottom of a pot with rocks “for drainage,” you’re not alone—this tip gets shared like it’s gardening law. It feels smart, it sounds tidy, and it seems like it should prevent soggy roots. The problem is that this viral gardening hack often does the opposite, trapping water where roots need air and turning a healthy plant into a slow-motion rescue project. That’s when the spending starts: replacement plants, extra soil, and “maybe this will fix it” products that never address the real issue. Here’s what’s actually happening and how to fix it the frugal way.
