Mindful Swap Series: Planter Plates
Because functionality doesn't have to be ugly
Hello there lovelies!
Before we dive in, I just want everyone to know that I didn’t come up with this idea - I saw it somewhere online a while back. When I implemented it in my own house, I loved it.
Therefore, I of course wanted to share the tip with you!
As someone who LOVES plants (as most of you know) and uses them a lot in my own home, as well as my design plans for my clients, I buy a lot of pots for those plants.
Though pots will be a future focus of a Mindful Swap Series post, today I want to talk about those little things you put UNDER the pot. The thing that catches the water overflow so you don’t drown your plants or cause root rot.
If you didn’t know already - It’s actually best to allow a plant to drain the excess water. Enclosed pots without a way to release water can cause root rot and other unhealthy scenarios for your plant babies. SOME plants don’t necessarily need drainage as much, but it’s always a good thing to have as an option.
Though I do have a few plants potted directly into a planter without holes - I know it’s a risk. It was mostly done out of necessity to save them from getting root bound by moving them to to a larger pot, and that was all I had. So, I’m just particularly careful not to over water those plants.
We might think this little item isn’t important and therefore just grab a flimsy plastic tray to slide under your plant and call it done.
*raises hand in admittance*
I’ve been this person for years. Plants are not necessarily cheap and this girl is trying to decorate on a budget! Anyone else?! But every single time I have brought a plant home and stuck it on top of that cheap tray, it’s been a bit of a let down.
The joy of a the beautiful new plant gets some *smeh* vibes, after I pair it with something that doesn’t match its amazing-ness.
You always think you aren’t going to see the tray, but you always do. Over time it gets grimier and grimier, is tough to clean, and eventually might even crack and start dripping whenever you water your plant (been there).
When I saw the idea to swap out those clear, plastic trays for actual hearty dishes that you find at thrift stores - I was ecstatic! Something that is more eco-friendly AND more beautiful?
I’m sold!
I was browsing a local thrift store recently - Charlies Angels to be exact - and they had a big stack of beautiful plates on double sale. I immediately remembered this little hack and snagged as many as I thought would work for the plants in my home. I think they cost from $1-3 per plate, which is almost the exact same as the plastic options you buy new.
There were beautiful glass/crystal saucers and one gorgeous metal one with carved flowers on the lip.
I brought them home, pulled out the flimsy trays I had, and replaced them with these gorgeous pieces of art!
And guess what? Immediate joy booster!
They added elegance, making the spaces feel more polished and fancy. They are gorgeous to look at, easier to wash, and will last way longer. A crystal one that sits in the garden window catches the light and reminds me of beauty. They even make the plastic pot holding my pothos look less… boring? Cheap? You get my drift.
It’s a mindful swap I proudly support, 100%.
So next time you’re browsing through your local thrift store - don’t forget to take a gander at the plate aisle. Even if you don’t have a use for them yet, It might even be worth snagging a few lovely pieces for all those plant babies we will be bringing home in the future. 🤗
Do you already have pretty plates under your plants, or do you have another item that you use for watering drainage? Let me know in the comments below!
Happy Hunting,
Kathryn