I know what you mean about Perlite @JennyJ - I dislike it too! I always put a layer of gravel over my pots, or something similar, so that they look more attractive. Doesn't stop bulbs coming through. Or even another thin layer of soil/compost.
It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
GW ws talking about using nut shells to take up space in large pots. Others on the forums have suggested putting empty plastic plant pots on the base of a planters, t shirts and wool jumpers if you want water retention. Yes, polysterne. I find terracotta/ glazed crocks helping drainage to be dubious. And if they are smashed up there is a real risk of a nasty slice, when groping in the base of a full plant pot. It's happened to me before now.
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I always put a layer of gravel over my pots, or something similar, so that they look more attractive. Doesn't stop bulbs coming through.
Or even another thin layer of soil/compost.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...