Indoor Is drainage rock a no-no?

[stashmouth]

My girls broke soil over the weekend in their party cups. I was going to prep the containers today, but am not sure whether or not I should put some sterilized gravel in the bottom. Seems like it would make for better drainage and cleaner run off to test. I couldn't find where anyone else talks about it in the forums.

Any thoughts on the issue?

 

[namvet]

I personaly wouldn't put rocks in the bottom.They could in themselves change the runoff by the water picking up chemicals or minerals from the rocks.They also might be a magnet for run off salts or minerals from your water.

 

[Coldharbour]

I've always used clay pebbles at the bottom of my pot for drainage. It was recommended to me as a safe option when I first got my setup and don't think it's caused me any problems.
I'd like to know if it is pointless though - could gain an extra inch or two for root depth

 

[BigBuddha]

I've copied a passage from Mandala seeds and this is what they have to say on bottom layers of pebbles:

Especially harmful is to fill the bottom of the container with coarse materials such as expanded clay pebbles. This is where most roots grow down looking for water and nutrients! If they reach a dry and sterile layer of substrate the delicate root hairs shrivel, valuable space is lost where the plant requires rich soil that stores moisture and minerals.

Source.

So far I've found their advice to be reliable with most things. The advice above seems to make sense.. when I remove my airpots from the soil the bottom is most densly packed with feeder roots.

 

[Auto-snooch]

I have read the same thing. I usually use clay pebbles but I think I will try not using them next time

 

[Coldharbour]

Bugger! It's too late for me, but I'll take this advice on board for the next time

Thanks for the tip!

 

[stashmouth]

I can see where it would use up valuable root space. And that's more important than having clean-ish run off to test.
This is why I love AFN.
Thanks guys!!!