What is the cheapest way to fill a planter?
An effective and affordable way of reducing the soil you need when filling large planters is by using lightweight pot fillers and lightening materials. These materials consist of foam peanuts, plastic bottles, and even crushed cans. Generally, using three or four plants in 10 to 12-inch planters, four to six plants in 14 to 16-inch planters and six to eight plants in 16 to 20-inch planters will fill out containers nicely while allowing room for the plants to grow without excessive crowding.
What is the best thing to put in the bottom of a planter?
You may have several natural materials around the house or garden that can be of use. Pine cones, wood chips, leaves, and sticks can all be used but will break down over time—a sustainable choice for seasonal planters who repot regularly. Synthetic materials like plastic, fiberglass, and metal are popular choices for outdoor planters. They are more durable and weather-resistant than natural materials and come in various shapes and sizes.
Does a planter need a hole in the bottom?
Without it, water can collect at the bottom of your planter box, leading to root rot, fungus, and bacterial growth. No matter what kind of planter you’re using, ensuring efficient drainage is the key to help maintain a balance between moisture and airflow. Mistake #1: Selecting the Wrong Gardening Container That leaves your plant roots in wet soil because they can’t absorb all the moisture, making them more susceptible to root rot. Conversely, the soil dries quickly in gardening containers that are too small. And that leads to you constantly having to water your plants.Cons of Container Gardening This means you will need to water them more frequently. Likewise, they’re also more affected by temperature fluctuations which can add heat stress to your crops. Because container gardens aren’t a self-sustaining system, they also require maintenance in terms of soil nutrients and balance.
Should you put rocks in the bottom of a planter box?
Adding rocks can actually trap water, harm your plants’ roots, and even damage your container over time. So, what really belongs in the bottom of your planter? High-quality potting soil—nothing else. I fill large pots half full with empty plastic water bottles, tightly capped. As far as roots are concerned, bottles are the same as rocks. Yet empty plastic water bottles don’t weigh anything. Some soil does fall into gaps, so it’s a good idea to pour pumice into the pot prior to adding potting soil.Adding rocks can actually trap water, harm your plants’ roots, and even damage your container over time. So, what really belongs in the bottom of your planter? High-quality potting soil—nothing else.Any water that pools at the bottom of a planter can allow bacteria and fungus to form and cause root rot, which can be deadly. Though every plant owner should know their individual plant’s care and watering needs, drainage holes in a planter allow any extra water to seep out.