Using galvanized planters effectively involves preparing the container, selecting the right plants, and providing appropriate care.
Galvanized planters are popular for their durable, rustic appearance. To use one successfully, you primarily need to ensure proper drainage and choose suitable soil and plants.
Preparing Your Galvanized Planter
The initial setup is crucial for the health of your plants.
- Ensure Adequate Drainage: This is perhaps the most critical step. As demonstrated in the reference video (starting around the 0:52 mark), you need to have sufficient drainage holes at the bottom of the container. The video specifically mentions having "three nice drainage holes now at the bottom." If your planter lacks these, you must drill holes yourself to prevent water from accumulating, which leads to root rot. Aim for holes at least 1/2 inch in diameter.
- Cleanliness: Before adding soil, give the planter a quick clean to remove any debris.
Adding Soil and Planting
Once the planter is prepared, it's time to add your soil and plants.
- Add Potting Soil: Add a layer of high-quality potting mix to the bottom of the planter. The reference video shows this step, stating, "So i'm just going to put a little bit of potting soil. In." Use a potting mix designed for containers, as it provides better aeration and drainage than garden soil.
- Choose Your Plants: Select plants that are well-suited for container life and the specific conditions (sunlight, temperature) where the planter will be placed. Consider the size of the planter relative to the mature size of the plants.
- Planting:
- Gently remove your plant from its nursery pot. The reference also shows removing a tag during the planting process (around 3:20).
- Position the plant in the planter, adding or removing soil so that the top of the plant's root ball is about 1 inch below the rim of the planter. This leaves space for watering.
- Fill the remaining space with potting soil, gently pressing it down to remove air pockets around the roots.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the planter deeply after planting until you see water draining from the holes at the bottom.
Ongoing Care
Maintaining your plants in a galvanized planter requires regular attention.
- Watering: Container plants typically dry out faster than those in the ground. Check soil moisture regularly (usually daily in hot weather) and water when the top inch or two feels dry. Always ensure water drains freely from the bottom.
- Fertilizing: Provide nutrients according to your plant's needs, as potting soil nutrients can deplete over time. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer as recommended for your specific plants.
- Sun and Heat: Galvanized metal can heat up quickly in direct sunlight, potentially stressing plant roots. Consider placing heat-sensitive plants in locations with afternoon shade or choosing heat-tolerant varieties.
- Winter Care: In regions with freezing temperatures, the soil inside the planter can freeze and expand, potentially damaging the roots or the planter itself. Consider moving planters to a sheltered location or using winter-hardy plants.
By following these steps, focusing on drainage and appropriate care, you can successfully use galvanized planters to enhance your garden or patio space.
