3D Printed Pot Drainage

3D printed pot drainage is exactly what it sounds like. I wanted to retain more soil and improve cheap 1 gallon pots. In the past, I’ve cut coco coir, Rockwool, and even moss and stuffed it into the over-sized pot drainage on those cheap black 1 gallon pots. I’ve glued mesh screens, I’ve placed rocks, bark, and Hydroton into the bottoms of pots to keep soil from spilling out the drain holes. I’ve tried everything, and I’m sure you have too.

While those other methods work, they quite frankly suck. They either add weight, and or take up space, or are simply more work, time, or cost than they are worth. Some cause a capillary action that can lead to overly wet pots and root rot.

So I’ve come up with a much better solution. I 3D printed pot drainage plugs. They pop into the rectangular drain holes molded into 1 gallon pots, and stay put with pressure. They are really just a grate with 3 slits, keeping averaged sized soils and potting mediums from spilling out, yet still allow ample drainage.

They also are nice for deep bottom watering, where soil always ends up in the reservoir you set your plants into.

If you are interested in some pot drain filter plugs, or the 3d print files, let us know in the comments. If you are in the market for a 3D printer, and this sold you on buying one I recommend one of these two, the Delta 3D Printer, or the Creality Ender 3 3D Printer. The Delta gives more vertical print room, but is mechanically a little more complicated and difficult to calibrate than the time test and proven Ender 3.

Written By The Gardenisto

The Gardenisto is passionate about aquaponics, hydroponics, horticulture, and traditional gardening. The Gardenisto shares his knowledge to help other enthusiasts in their own gardening endeavors.