Gardeners urged to keep wine corks to help plants this summer

are being advised to keep hold of wine corks to help their plants thrive this summer. An expert has revealed a hack which uses the corks to prevent issues such as root rot and fungal diseases.

gardener David Domoney shared the clever tip on . He explained how some pots lack good drainage, which can have a negative impact on plants. To avoid drainage issues, David recommends using wine corks to prop up plant pots. He explained: "The thing about growing plants in containers is to make sure there's good drainage. Sometimes you may only have one little drainage hole at the bottom of the pot.

"And if it forms a seal on the paving underneath it can be difficult to train and the water rots the plant. If you want a great tip - use wine corks."

David continued: "If you place them around the base of the pot and then put the pot on top of the wine corks. As you water, that gap in between the base of the pot and the ground means the water drains through."

By propping up a plant pot, excess water is allowed to drain away which ensures the soil does not become waterlogged. This allows the roots space to breathe and prevents fungal diseases.

Healthy roots need a balance of moisture and oxygen to thrive. If the soil is too wet and soggy, fungi and bacteria can grow which leads to a number of issues for gardeners.

The drainage holes, and added space due to the wine corks, reduce the humidity which leaves the plant pot. This minimises the risk of root rot and infections.

said: "Pot feet elevate planters off the ground to improve drainage while also keeping your deck, porch, or patio dry.

"You can use wine corks as pot feet by placing a few under the edges of the container. For a more permanent solution, glue them to the bottom."