Question
I have noticed that when I water my plants a hole starts forming in the middle of the pot. I fill the hole with more soil. I found that if I don't add more soil over time the hole can get quite deep. I have tried pouring the water into the pot around the sides but the hole still keeps forming. This is happening in all of my houseplants and in both small pots and large pots.
What is causing this and how can I prevent it from happening? What am I doing wrong.

Answer
Hi Sidney,

This usually happens with plants that are potted in poor quality soil that has little porous material, such as peat moss and perlite in it. Good soil distributes and absorbs moisture more evenly.

If your plants have been in that soil for a long time, I don't recommend replacing it. When the hole forms, do not add any soil. Rather, move soil from the outer portion to the center after each watering. All of this has little effect on the health of the plant, although soil that lacks proper porosity will shorten the life expectancy of a plant.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC