Pot feet lift a planter slightly above the surface beneath it. The benefit is simple: space for air and drainage, with less of the pot base resting directly on the ground. The best arrangement depends on the surface and the stability of the pot.
On timber and composite decking
Clear away leaves and soil before placing the pot. Position each foot on a sound, level part of a board, away from gaps where it could tilt. The space beneath the pot helps the base dry, but regular cleaning and the decking manufacturer's care instructions still matter.
On tiles and stone
Check that every foot sits firmly and that the planter does not rock. Avoid placing feet across uneven joints. Water, soil and minerals can still leave marks on some surfaces, so inspect and clean beneath the pot periodically.
Keep drainage holes clear
Arrange the feet around the base without covering the outlets. If water collects inside the pot, check the drainage holes and growing medium. Raising a pot helps water leave through open holes; it does not replace appropriate watering or drainage inside the container.
Make stability the priority
Moving the feet slightly inward can make them less visible, but the pot must remain stable. Check it in its final position, especially if it is tall or stands somewhere exposed. Pot feet do not anchor a planter against wind.
A simple maintenance routine
- Remove leaves and soil beneath the pot.
- Check that the feet are intact and properly positioned.
- Keep drainage outlets clear.
- Lift the planter when moving it, rather than sliding it.
For fitting advice, including porous pot bases, read our installation guide. If you have just found rings during a tidy-up, start with our autumn checklist.