Better Than Rocks ®
The Eco-Friendly Planter Drainage Solution
How one gardener’s frustration with heavy planters and poor drainage led to an innovative, eco-friendly planter drainage solution — now trusted by container gardeners and sustainable growers across the country.
Common Drainage Challenges in Container Gardening
I'm Sarah Atkins, the creator of Better Than Rocks and a lifelong gardener. Like many, I used to fill my pots with rocks, broken clay and whatever else I thought might help with container gardening drainage. But no matter what I tried, my planters were too heavy and still didn’t drain properly.
A Lighter, Eco-Friendly Drainage Answer
One spring, instead of placing rocks in the bottom of my planters, I decided to try a recycled plastic mesh my family invented for use in the construction industry. The change was dramatic: lighter pots, healthier plants and consistent drainage. I realized this wasn't just a personal fix — it was a sustainable gardening solution for container growers everywhere. That’s how Better Than Rocks began.
Maximize Plant Health with Sustainable Container Gardening
Today, Better Than Rocks is trusted by container gardeners nationwide who want an easier, more sustainable gardening solution. Made from 75% recycled plastic, our lightweight mesh replaces outdated materials, prevents root rot and supports proper airflow and planter drainage —season after season.
Versatile, Eco-Friendly Drainage for Any Container Garden
What started on my own patio has become the go-to eco-friendly planter drainage solution for container gardens of all shapes and sizes. Whether your planters are for a balcony, a rooftop, deck, the backyard or indoor houseplants, Better Than Rocks helps you grow beautiful, healthy plants — while helping reduce plastic waste at the same time.
Each BTR Jumbo (16"x96") is made from 38 recycled soda bottles! You never have to throw Better Than Rocks away, so you are keeping these plastic bottles out of the landfill!
If you haven’t tried it yet, I hope you will. And when you do, please let us know what you think. We love hearing from our fellow gardeners!
Yours in sustainable gardening,
Sarah Atkins – Inventor & Garden Lover