slate chips on top of plant pots

[plummers]

Hi there I would like to put slate chips on the top of my plant pots containing small shrubs etc. to help retain moisture and it looks decorative. However a friend of mine says he did it and his plants have started to look like they are dying. Is it the slate or could there be another reason for this?

[Plocket]

Hia Plummers

Well I don't know what's affecting your friend's plants but I wouldn't have thought it was the slate. I've had slates around some of my plants for years and haven't had any problems, and slate is very popular with many gardeners.

[welshlibranr]

I don't think it can be the slate either, I use it to top dress my planters, and have never had a problem with any of my plants,it helps to retain moisture, stop weeds growing in the pots too, there must be another reason for your friend's plants not thriving. Good Luck :)