As winter gets closer and the days grow shorter, most gardeners think about how to protect their delicate plants. But it’s just as important to look after your container plants. If you leave pots sitting directly on patios or the ground all winter, they can easily become waterlogged and damaged. Simply raising your containers on pot feet or bricks can make a big difference and help your plants survive the cold months.

When pots sit flat on a surface, the drainage holes can easily become blocked by debris, compacted soil, or even just the surface tension of water. During heavy winter rains or persistent damp weather, this means water has nowhere to escape. The compost in the container then becomes saturated, cutting off oxygen to the plant’s roots. This lack of oxygen causes the roots to effectively drown and rot, a condition known as waterlogging. Once roots begin to rot, the plant rapidly declines and often won’t recover, even if the weather improves.

The solution is simple and effective: elevate your containers. By placing your pots onto purpose-made pot feet or even readily available bricks, you create a vital air gap beneath the base. This gap ensures that the drainage holes remain clear and unobstructed, allowing excess water to drain away freely. Improved air circulation around the base of the pot also helps to prevent moisture build-up and can deter pests like slugs and snails seeking damp hiding spots.

Beyond drainage, raising your containers offers an added layer of protection. During freezing conditions, pots sitting directly on cold ground are more susceptible to the compost freezing solid, potentially damaging roots. The air gap provided by pot feet acts as a small insulating layer, offering a degree of protection against extreme cold. This small effort now can save you the headache and expense of replacing cherished plants next spring. Make it a key part of your winter garden prep, and your container plants will thank you with healthier growth when warmer weather returns.