How to Drill a Drainage Hole in a Ceramic Flower Pot or Planter

Container pot gardening adds versatility to small and large gardens, yards, and homes.  It is a way to add instant color and provide a focal point by placing them outside on the ground, on a pedestal, and anywhere inside the home.

The ceramic pots can be used for flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Choosing ceramic plant pots and containers is part of the fun.

I firmly believe you should have drainage holes for all your plants, both indoors and outdoors. A drainage hole is essential to keep the plant from getting waterlogged, which can cause it to drown and develop root rot. This happens especially if the flowerpot is outside.

Say you find the perfect pot or ceramic container in a store or thrift store only to discover it has no drain holes in the bottom.  How disappointing. You can still use it for plants.  If you can drill with a power drill, you can create holes in the bottom of the pot.

Learn how to drill a drainage hole in ceramic planters by watching our video, or keep reading this article for a photo tutorial with step-by-step instructions.

DRILLING HOLE IN A CERAMIC POT OR PLANTER TUTORIAL

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED:

• Glazed Ceramic Flower Pot or Container
• Tile and Glass Drill Bit
• Power Drill
• Safety Goggles or Glasses

STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL ON MAKING A DRAINAGE HOLE

STEP 1: CERAMIC CONTAINER

Place the flower pot upside down on a hard, flat surface, such as cement or a deck. Drill the drainage hole from the outside of the pot to the inside. Before drilling, place newspaper or cardboard under the flower pot to protect the work surface.

Decide where to place the hole in the bottom of the planter. At least one drainage hole is usually placed in the center of the pot base. You may want more holes if it is a very large pot.

You can find these drill bits at a local hardware store. A good drill is essential to have enough power to properly drill through the pot. It can be an electric or battery-powered cordless drill. If using a battery-powered drill, ensure it is thoroughly charged.

My glazed ceramic pots need drainage holes. The best drill bit for this type of pot is a tile and glass bit. I have attached a 3/8" tile and glass bit to my cordless drill and will drill through the pot's glazed surface. 

STEP 3: BEGIN DRILLING

Wear proper protective gear when drilling into the ceramic pot. Put on safety glasses or goggles before you begin to drill to prevent dust or pieces of the ceramic pot from getting into your eyes as you drill.

Many tutorials tell you to put masking tape where you want to drill the hole, and some use water when drilling. I have drilled holes in many ceramic containers and found both techniques unnecessary. 

To begin drilling, place the drill bit perpendicularly on the pot base where you want to make the hole. Hold the drill in one hand and, with the other hand, apply a firm amount of pressure to the top of the drill.

Begin drilling at a slow speed until the bit begins to drill into the pot's surface.  Then lighten up on the pressure, increase the speed of the power drill, and drill the rest of the drainage hole into the flowerpot.

When drilling, be patient. It can take anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on the thickness of the bottom of the pot.

Once you drill through the pot, gently pull the drill back out through the hole. Repeat the process if you want an additional hole or holes.

Wipe away the dust and rinse the flower pot with water.  

STEP 4: ALL DONE!

Growing flowers, herbs, and vegetables in pots is a satisfying way to add color and personality to your home, porch, or yard.

Have fun purchasing any flower pot you like. If it doesn't have a water drainage hole, drill one.

If you enjoyed this tutorial, you will surely enjoy our Sustainable Gardening and Foraging page.

Happy Gardening!

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