How to Pot a Plant

For many novice gardeners, the journey starts with learning how to pot a plant. Cute, right? But keeping that plant alive (and thriving, not just barely surviving) can feel a bit like guesswork at first.

The good news is that potting isn’t complicated; it’s just picky. Choosing the right soil, making sure drainage is sorted and giving your plant the right amount of sunlight are the big-ticket items that make all the difference.

With the right care, even beginners can build a thriving plant paradise without needing a backyard the size of a cricket oval. Let’s get you potting with confidence.

Why do potted plants often struggle?

Potted plants rely entirely on their container for water, air and nutrients. There’s no big underground network of soil to save them when things go wrong, so if the soil stays too wet or becomes compacted, roots can’t breathe and may start rotting. Not ideal.

This often happens when garden soil is used in pots or when containers don’t have drainage holes. Overwatering is another classic beginner mistake, usually done with love and panic. Unfortunately, plants do not appreciate being drowned ‘just in case’. Without a way for excess water to escape, even a perfectly healthy plant can go downhill fast.

How to pot a plant the right way

1. Choose the right pot

The first step is finding a pot that suits your plant. A pot that’s too small can restrict root growth, while an oversized pot can hold too much water and turn the soil into a swamp.

A good rule is to choose one that’s just slightly larger than the plant’s current container. Enough room to grow, not enough room to throw a pool party.

2. Prepare the pot

Before adding soil, create a drainage layer at the bottom using gravel, stones or scoria. This helps water move freely and keeps roots healthier for longer (because soggy roots are basically a plant’s worst nightmare).

If the pot will sit on a patio or indoors, place it on a saucer to catch excess water and protect the surface underneath. Nobody wants to explain mysterious water stains to guests.

3. Select the right soil mix

It can be tempting to scoop up soil straight from the garden and just plonk it in when you're first learning how to pot a plant, but this is where many plants start plotting their dramatic exit.

Garden soil compacts too easily in containers, blocking air and water from reaching the roots. For indoor and outdoor pots, we recommend Rocky Point's Premium Potting Mix, which is designed to stay light, drain well and keep plants happy.

4. Move your plant into the pot

Once the pot is ready, carefully remove the plant from its nursery container. Loosen any tightly bound roots with your fingers, which helps encourage them to grow outward into the new mix instead of staying curled up like they’re afraid of commitment.

Position the plant so it sits at the same soil depth as before, then gently fill around it with potting mix. Press the soil lightly to remove air pockets and leave space at the top for watering. Don’t pack it down like you’re paving a driveway, as plants love breathing room.

5. Watering and finishing touches

Give your plant a generous first drink, allowing water to flow through the drainage holes. This is the one time you’re allowed to be generous without consequences.

After that, water only as needed, remembering that potted plants dry out faster than those in the ground. Adding a layer of mulch or pebbles on top can help retain moisture and regulate temperature.

For long-term success, apply a slow-release fertiliser every few months to keep your plant fed and thriving, because even plants deserve a good meal plan.

What results can I expect from potting a plant correctly?

When you pot a plant properly, it establishes roots faster and experiences less stress. Good drainage and the right soil mix allow roots to access air and nutrients, leading to stronger growth and fewer issues over time.

Plants that start off in the right conditions are also far more forgiving, which is great news if you’re still building confidence and occasionally forget to check the soil.

These potting practices are widely recommended by gardening professionals, including Gardening Australia. They are also the same methods used by professional landscapers and experienced home gardeners.

By starting with the right pot and soil, and ensuring the aftercare you provide is consistent and high-quality, you’ll set your plants up for success. At Australian Landscape Supplies, we make gardening and landscaping easier with a wide range of gardening supplies for every need. Visit our Brisbane store in Eagle Farm or shop online today to find quality products trusted by both trade professionals and home gardeners!