How to Use Ups-A-Daisy Planter Inserts: Save Soil and Improve Drainage in 2026

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy planter insert is a clever gardening tool designed for anyone who uses decorative pots, especially large ones. It's essentially a sturdy, round disc that you place halfway down inside your planter before adding soil. This simple action creates a false bottom, lifting your plant's root ball out of any water that collects at the base. If you've ever struggled with moving heavy pots or watched plants suffer from soggy roots, this insert is your solution. It's ideal for balcony gardeners, patio decorators, or anyone looking to make container planting more efficient and plant-friendly.

Performance is where this product truly shines. By creating an elevated platform, it drastically cuts down on the amount of potting mix required. You could easily save half the soil you'd normally use for a deep pot. More importantly, the pre-drilled drainage holes allow water to pass through freely, preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged. This promotes essential air circulation around the roots, which is a key factor in preventing root rot and encouraging stronger, healthier growth. Users find their plants are less prone to stress and may even produce better blooms thanks to the improved conditions.

Build quality is solid for the price. The insert is made from a thick, molded resin that feels durable and is built to last. It's UV-protected to resist fading in sunlight, so that vibrant orange color won't quickly wash out if used outdoors. The material is also easy to clean; you can just rinse it off with a hose between uses. At just over half an inch tall and 10 inches wide, it's unobtrusive but effective. The design is purely functional, with the color likely chosen for high visibility during use and storage.

There are a couple of considerations. First, it only comes in a round shape, so it won't work in square or rectangular containers unless they are significantly wider than the insert. Second, you need to measure the interior width of your planter about halfway down to get the right size; a 10-inch insert needs a pot with an interior diameter larger than 10 inches to fit inside. Also, if your decorative pot is very shallow or has a narrow opening, the bright orange rim of the insert might be visible, which could be a minor aesthetic drawback for some.

Overall, the Bloem Ups-A-Daisy is a smart, well-executed product that solves specific gardening problems efficiently. It won't revolutionize gardening, but it will make maintaining large container plants easier, cheaper, and more successful. If you use big pots and want to save on soil, reduce lifting weight, and give your plants a healthier foundation, this insert is a worthwhile investment that delivers on its promises.

Brand: Bloem

Model/Part Number: T6320

Color: Orange

Material: Durable Resin (Plastic)

Shape: Round

Size: 10 inches in diameter, 0.75 inches in height

Weight: 0.24 pounds

Special Feature: Integrated Drainage Holes

Indoor/Outdoor Use: Yes, UV-protected

Style: Transitional

Unit Count: 1 Insert

Choosing the Right Size: This is the most important step. Measure the inside width (diameter) of your planter pot at approximately the halfway point of its depth. The Ups-A-Daisy insert needs to fit inside this space. Select an insert size that is slightly smaller than this measurement to ensure it sits securely about halfway down.

How to Use It: Place the insert into your empty planter. Add a layer of potting mix on top of the insert until it's covered. Then, place your plant (in its original nursery pot or with bare roots) on top of this soil layer and fill in around it with more potting mix as usual. Water normally; excess will drain through the insert's holes.

Best For: Large, deep decorative pots (especially round ones), preventing root rot in containers without built-in drainage, reducing the weight of patio planters, and saving money on potting soil for big projects.

Not Ideal For: Square, rectangular, or unusually shaped pots. Very shallow containers where the insert would be too visible. Pots that already have excellent, raised internal drainage systems.

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy Square Planter Insert is a clever gardening accessory designed for anyone who uses large, deep containers. If you've ever been frustrated by the cost and weight of filling a big pot with soil, only for your plants to develop shallow roots, this insert is for you. It's essentially a sturdy platform that sits inside your planter, taking up the bottom space so you don't have to fill it entirely with expensive potting mix. This makes it ideal for container gardeners, balcony growers, and anyone looking to optimize their planting process for healthier results.

Where this product really shines is in its core function: promoting plant health while saving resources. By elevating your plants, it keeps their root balls out of any water that collects at the bottom of the pot, a common cause of root rot. The pre-drilled drainage holes are a key feature, ensuring water can pass through while allowing essential air to reach the roots. Users find that their plants are not just surviving but thriving, often producing more vigorous growth and more abundant blooms because the roots are encouraged to stay within a nutrient-rich zone instead of sprawling.

Build quality is a strong point. Made from a thick, durable resin, the insert feels substantial and is built to last. It's UV-protected to resist fading in the sun and is easy to wipe clean for reuse season after season. The 11.75-inch square size is versatile, but it's crucial to measure the interior width of your planter about halfway down to ensure a proper fit. The insert should sit snugly, about one-half to two-thirds of the way down the container.

It's not without minor considerations. The most important step is getting the sizing right. If your pot is an unusual shape or size, this specific insert might not fit. Also, while the bright orange color is fine for most applications, it could be visible through the drainage holes or sides of a very light-colored or translucent pot, which might bother some gardeners aesthetically. These are small trade-offs for the functional benefits.

Overall, the Bloem Ups-A-Daisy Insert is a smart, well-executed solution to a common gardening problem. It turns a deep pot into an efficiently sized home for your plants. You'll save money on soil, make your containers lighter and easier to move, and most importantly, create a better environment for root health. It's a simple tool that delivers on its promises, making it a worthwhile addition to any container gardener's toolkit.

Brand: Bloem

Model: TS6322 (Ups-A-Daisy)

Shape: Square

Dimensions: 11.75" L x 11.75" W x 0.75" H

Color: Orange

Material: Durable, UV-protected Resin

Key Feature: Pre-drilled Drainage Holes

Use: Indoor & Outdoor

Included: 1 Insert

How to Choose the Right Size: This is the most critical step. Measure the inside width of your empty planter at a point roughly halfway to two-thirds of the way down from the top. The insert should fit snugly at this level. Do not measure the top rim of the pot, as most planters taper inward.

Best Use Cases: This insert is perfect for deep, tapered pots used for annual flowers, herbs, or small shrubs. It's especially useful for plants that have a relatively shallow root system but are placed in a deep container for visual appeal.

Installation Tip: Place the insert in your empty pot first. Then add a layer of potting mix on top of it before placing your plant. This ensures the roots make immediate contact with the soil. Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle around the new platform.

Compatibility: Ensure your planter has its own drainage holes at the very bottom. The Ups-A-Daisy insert works in conjunction with these holes, not as a replacement for them. It is designed for standard square or rectangular containers close to its 11.75-inch dimension.

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy 14-inch Round Insert is a clever gardening accessory designed for practicality over aesthetics. It's aimed at anyone who uses large, tapered planters, especially for annuals or plants with shorter root systems. If you've ever been frustrated by the cost and weight of filling a big pot with soil, only for the plant to use the top half, this product is your solution. It's also ideal for gardeners battling overwatering or seeking to improve plant vitality.

Its standout feature is its core function: creating a false bottom. By sitting halfway to two-thirds down in your container, it instantly cuts the soil volume needed by up to half. This isn't just a cost saver; it makes moving planted containers far easier. The pre-drilled drainage holes are a critical addition. They allow water to pass through, preventing your plant's roots from sitting in a soggy basin at the bottom of the pot, which is a primary cause of root rot. The claim of promoting bigger blooms comes from the logic of confining roots, which can force the plant to redirect energy upward.

The build quality is straightforward and robust. Made from polypropylene resin, it's durable, UV-protected to resist fading outdoors, and easy to wipe clean for reuse season after season. The one-inch height and solid orange color are functional choices. It's not meant to be seen but to work reliably. The "Made in the USA" marking is a point of quality assurance for some buyers.

There are a few considerations. You must accurately measure the inside width of your planter at the depth where the insert will sit to ensure a proper fit. A mismatch means it won't function correctly. Also, while the drainage helps, the one-inch elevation might not be enough for pots with extremely poor drainage or for plants exceptionally sensitive to moisture. Finally, it is purely a utility item; it doesn't add decorative value to your pot.

Overall, the Ups-A-Daisy insert is a highly recommended, smart tool for efficient container gardening. It addresses real problems: soil waste, heavy pots, and overwatering risks. While it requires a bit of forethought to size correctly, its benefits in saving money, effort, and potentially your plants from root diseases make it a worthwhile addition to any gardener's supplies, especially for those who love using large decorative pots.

Color: Orange

Brand: Bloem

Model Number: T6324

Shape: Round

Size: 14 inches in width, 1 inch in height

Material: Plastic (Polypropylene Resin)

Special Feature: Drainage Holes

Included Components: One 14-inch Ups-A-Daisy Round Planter Insert

Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Outdoor

Manufactured: United States

To get the best results from your Ups-A-Daisy insert, follow these simple steps. First, choose the correct size. Measure the inside width (diameter) of your empty planter at the point about halfway to two-thirds down from the top. Match that measurement to the insert size (e.g., 14-inch).

When planting, place the insert into your clean, empty pot first. Then add your potting soil on top of the insert, filling to the desired level. Plant your flowers or plants as normal. The insert will now act as a platform, reducing the soil depth below it.

Water your plants normally. The drainage holes in the insert will allow excess water to flow through into the lower cavity of the pot, away from the roots. This system works best with typical watering practices; it doesn't require a change in your routine.

At the end of the season, you can remove the insert, clean it with water, and store it for reuse next year. Its durable construction means it can be used for many growing cycles, providing ongoing value.

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy is a clever planter insert designed for one main purpose: to make large container gardening much easier. If you've ever struggled to move a heavy, soil-filled 12-inch pot, this simple orange tray is your solution. It's perfect for balcony gardeners, patio decorators, or anyone who likes to rearrange their plants but dreads the heavy lifting.

Its standout performance comes from its core function. By placing this insert at the bottom of your planter, you instantly reduce the volume needed for soil by up to half. This translates directly to a pot that's 50% lighter. The pre-drilled drainage holes are a critical feature. They don't just let excess water out; they enable 'pass-through' watering, which encourages roots to grow deeper and healthier. You get better plant growth with less risk of root rot from soggy soil.

Build quality is solid for a plastic product. It's made from polypropylene resin, which feels sturdy and is listed as UV-protected. This means the bright orange color should resist fading in direct sunlight, a common failure point for cheaper plastics. The 'Made in the US' tag inspires a bit more confidence in its manufacturing standards. It's essentially maintenance-free - just rinse it out between seasons.

The main drawback is its specificity. It only fits 12-inch round planters, so measure your pots before buying. The low profile (just 0.75 inches tall) is great for saving soil, but if you prefer a more substantial false bottom for extreme drainage, this might feel minimal. The vibrant orange color is practical for visibility but might not disappear aesthetically in every pot.

Final verdict: This is a brilliantly simple, single-purpose tool that delivers exactly what it promises. It doesn't try to be a planter itself; it makes your existing planters better. If you use standard 12-inch pots and want to save your back, save on soil, and improve your plant's health through better drainage, the Ups-A-Daisy insert is a no-brainer purchase. It's a small investment for a significantly easier gardening experience.

Brand: Bloem

Product Name: Ups-A-Daisy Planter Pot Lift Insert

Primary Material: Plastic (Polypropylene Resin)

Color: Orange

Style: Transitional

Special Feature: Integrated Drainage Holes

Form Factor: Tray/Insert

Dimensions: 12 inches in Width, 0.75 inches in Height

Key Benefit: Reduces required soil and total planter weight by up to 50%

Durability Features: UV-protected, fade-resistant, easy to clean

Country of Manufacture: United States

The Lettry 2-piece planter insert set is designed for gardeners who want to cut down on soil costs and make large pots easier to move. Each insert is a 10-inch round plastic disk that sits inside a pot, taking up space so you use less soil. The set comes in a bright orange color and includes drainage holes to keep roots healthy. It is a simple but effective tool for anyone with oversized containers.

The standout feature is how much it reduces the amount of soil you need. Instead of filling a tall pot completely, you place the insert about halfway down, add soil on top, and plant. Customers report using half the soil they used before, which also makes the pot much lighter. The drainage holes let excess water escape, which helps prevent root rot. One reviewer in Florida called it the best option for maximizing drainage after trying rocks and other methods.

Build quality is solid for a plastic item. The material feels sturdy enough to hold soil without collapsing, yet it is easy to cut or trim if needed. The orange color is eye-catching, though you won't see it once the pot is filled. Installation takes seconds: just drop it in and add soil. The inserts work for indoor and outdoor use, and they come in nine sizes so you can match your pot's diameter.

A few drawbacks are worth noting. The size must be precise. Some buyers had to return theirs because the insert didn't fit their pot. Measure the inside diameter of your pot carefully before ordering. Also, the plastic is lightweight, which is a plus for moving, but it might flex a bit under very heavy soil or large plants. The color is orange, so if you prefer neutral tones, this isn't for you.

Overall, the Lettry planter inserts deliver on their promise. They save soil, reduce weight, and improve drainage. For the price, they are a smart buy for anyone with large planters who wants to make gardening less of a chore. If you measure correctly, you will likely be as satisfied as the many 5-star reviewers.

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy Planter Insert is a clever gardening tool designed for anyone who uses potted plants, from balcony gardeners to patio enthusiasts. It's not a pot itself, but a sturdy disk you place inside your existing planter. Its main job is to create a raised platform for your plant, which instantly solves two common problems: using too much heavy soil and dealing with poor drainage that leads to root rot. If you've ever struggled to move a large, soil-filled container or watched a plant wilt from soggy roots, this product is for you.

The standout features are all about practical performance. The claim of reducing soil and weight by up to 50% is a major benefit. You simply fill the bottom half of your pot with this insert instead of soil. This makes repotting less expensive and far less strenuous. The pre-drilled drainage holes are the other hero feature. They allow water to pass through efficiently during watering, preventing it from pooling at the bottom. This ensures roots get air and don't suffocate, which is a key to plant health. It's a low-effort way to create a much better growing environment.

Build quality and design are straightforward and effective. The resin material feels solid and durable, not cheap or flimsy. The UV protection means the bright orange color should hold up well in sunny outdoor spots without fading quickly. The one-inch height and 13-inch round shape give it a neutral, transitional style that doesn't clash with most decor. It's easy to clean with just a rinse, which is helpful when switching plants. The two-pack is a sensible offering, as most gardeners have more than one pot to improve.

There are a couple of potential drawbacks to consider. The one-inch height might not be sufficient if you're using a very deep pot and want a more dramatic reduction in soil volume. Also, while 13-inch round is a common size, it won't fit square planters or containers with a much larger diameter. You need to check your pot's shape and size for compatibility before buying.

Overall, the Bloem Ups-A-Daisy insert is a smart, value-adding accessory for container gardening. It tackles real issues like cost, weight, and plant health with a simple, well-made design. If your pots are round and around 13 inches, this set offers a reliable way to make your gardening easier and your plants happier.

Color: Orange

Product Style: Transitional

Planter Form: Tray/Insert

Shape: Round

Pattern: Solid

Brand: Bloem

Included Components: 2 Trays

Model Number: T6323-6

Unit Count: 2.0 Count

Dimensions: 13" Diameter x 13" Width x 1" Height

Number of Pieces: 2

Item Weight: 1.1 Pounds

Material: Resin

Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Both

Special Feature: Drainage Holes

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy Square Planter Insert is a clever gardening tool designed to solve two common container gardening problems: excessive soil use and poor drainage. It's a simple, sturdy resin disk that you place about halfway down inside a tapered planter. By taking up that space, it drastically cuts down on the volume of potting mix you need to fill the pot. This product is perfect for anyone who gardens with large containers, wants to save money on soil, or struggles with moving heavy planted pots around their patio or garden.

Where this insert really shines is in its practical benefits. You're not just saving on soil; you're creating a lighter, more manageable container. The pre-drilled drainage holes are a standout feature. They ensure water flows through properly, preventing it from pooling at the bottom where it can suffocate roots and cause rot. This elevated platform allows air to reach the root zone, which is crucial for plant health. For annual flowers and many vegetables that have relatively shallow root systems, this setup actually encourages more compact, bushier growth rather than long, weak stems.

Build quality is solid. The insert is made from thick, UV-stabilized plastic resin that feels durable and is built to last through multiple seasons. It's easy to clean and store when not in use. Being made from food-safe plastic codes 2 and 5 means you can confidently use it in planters for herbs, strawberries, or lettuce without worry. The bright orange color is neutral enough for most decorative settings and makes it easy to spot if you're storing several gardening accessories.

It's important to note this isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Its effectiveness depends on using it in the right pot. You need to measure the interior width of your planter about halfway down to confirm the 13-inch size will fit snugly. It works best in classic tapered pots where the opening is wider than the base. For very deep planters or those with straight sides, the benefits might be less pronounced, as the insert only adds one inch of elevation.

Overall, the Bloem Ups-A-Daisy is a thoughtfully designed, value-adding tool for container gardeners. It tackles real issues like cost, weight, and plant health in a straightforward way. If you regularly fill large pots with expensive potting mix and then wrestle to move them, this insert offers a smart, reusable solution that pays for itself quickly while giving your plants a better environment to thrive in.

Brand: Bloem

Model: Ups-A-Daisy Square Planter Insert

Model Number: TS6323

Dimensions: 13" L x 13" W x 1" H

Color: Orange

Shape: Square

Material: Durable Plastic Resin (Codes 2 & 5)

Features: Pre-drilled drainage holes, UV-protected, reusable.

Usage: Indoor & Outdoor

Included: 1 Planter Insert

Origin: Made in the USA

The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy is a clever gardening hack disguised as a simple plastic tray. It's designed for anyone who loves the look of large, statement planters but hates the cost and backache that comes with filling them. By sitting inside your pot and lifting the plant's root ball higher, it solves several common container gardening problems at once. If you've ever struggled with a heavy pot, watched a plant suffer from wet feet, or winced at the price of multiple bags of potting mix, this insert is for you.

Its standout performance comes from its core function: creating a false bottom. When you place it about halfway down your planter, it instantly reduces the volume you need to fill with soil. This isn't just about saving a few scoops; for a deep 24-inch pot, it can cut your soil usage by a third or more. More importantly, the space below the insert acts as a reservoir for excess water, so roots aren't sitting in soggy soil. This improved aeration and drainage environment is where the magic happens for plant health, leading to stronger roots and better blooms.

The build quality is straightforward and functional. It's a sturdy, molded plastic tray with a polished finish, and the bright orange color is easy to spot against dark soil. It feels durable enough for repeated seasonal use, and its lightweight nature makes handling it a breeze. Just remember, it's specifically designed for round pots, so you'll need to measure the interior width at the midpoint of your planter to ensure a proper fit. The 16-inch size reviewed here is a great option for many medium to large patio pots.

There are a couple of minor drawbacks to consider. First, you must get the sizing right. If you choose an insert that's too large, it won't fit; if it's too small, it won't sit securely or function as intended. Second, while the plastic is robust for its purpose, it's not indestructible. In climates with harsh freeze-thaw cycles, it's wise to store it indoors during the off-season to prevent potential cracking.

Final verdict: The Bloem Ups-A-Daisy Planter Insert is a brilliantly simple, cost-effective tool that delivers on its promises. It turns the chore of filling deep planters into a more economical and plant-friendly task. The benefits of healthier plants, less soil waste, and lighter containers make this a no-brainer addition for the practical gardener. It's one of those products you'll wish you had discovered sooner.

Brand: Bloem

Model/Part Number: T6326 (Ups-A-Daisy)

Color: Orange

Shape: Round

Size: 16 inches in diameter

Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 1 inches

Material: Plastic

Style: Modern Tray/Liner

Special Features: Drainage design, Lightweight, Portable

Usage: Outdoor

Included: 1 Planter Insert