Should I use a layer of rocks for drainage in a planter?
by
Deb
+2
My husband had a 3 level fusion to his spine and can't bend down to garden. I'd like to convert two old galvanized wash tubs into planter for his tomato plant and a few pepper plants and radishes and scallions. What would be the best way to get proper drainage so that the plants don't sit in water and rot?
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I like the rock idea. Do you have someone else to come help you? In one of my big planters I did rock. In another I used plastic bottles. Since you will be growing food, I would use the rocks or even some sand, at the bottom for drainage. Tell your husband I feel for him, as I have had a number of back surgeries and I understand the bending issue all too well. Oh and poke a few holes in the bottom of the washtubs too, will help with drainage.
Rocks are heavy. You can use styrofoam peanuts. Use about 2-3" then a good potting soil. Absolutely need drainage holes. Also look up how to make self watering planters out of large plastic containers. The big ones you can get at Wal Mart for under $10. If you buy furniture dollys at Harbour Freight they have heavy duty castors and can make your container movable.
I would elevate the planters on tables for him.Make sure there are drainage holes,and do not use rocks.They will keep the plants to wet.You can use a moisture control soil which will help keep them a little moister.
All these ideas are very good ones, and I agree the rocks only add weight and may cause the soil to remain too wet. One idea I've used for years is to line my pots with used dryer sheets. You can put one layer, but in your case I would use maybe three layers. These will keep the soil from escaping through the drain holes. Even though there's a layer or two of rock, bottles, or styrofoam, the tiny bits of soil escape with the excess water. Happy gardening. I'm in the same situation.
coffee filters over the holes work great too ( possibly a little sturdier than dryer sheets)