Plant stains are one of the most difficult and often impossible problems to remedy for the professional carpet care technician. By plant stainswe are referring to the marks left when water, has filtered through an indoor planter, comes in contact with wall to wall carpeting or an area rug. Chemicals that the water often picks up as it is filtered through the potting soil, usually fertilizers, can cause a reaction with the carpet dyes causing permanent color change or loss. Also, the planters themselves may add to the problem by depositing colored dyes onto the carpeting.
Another aspect of plant stains that does not involve color altering chemicals but is just as dangerous is moisture. When moisture is allowed to sit under a planter for any length of time it will seep through the carpet into the padding where it can sit for several weeks before drying. Which can lead to mold and mildew formation as well as delaminating of the carpet backing and severe damage to the sub floor.
The good news is that there is a very simple method of prevention in these cases. To prevent damage to your carpeting, area rugs and hardwood floors you only need to place a pan under planters. Make sure that the pan is large enough to contain any accidental over watering. Also check under your plants periodically, if you catch a moisture problem early enough you may be able to prevent permanent carpet damage.