If you're dealing with water draining from your urban planter boxes onto the balcony floor below, there are several effective solutions to implement. First, ensure your planter boxes have proper drainage holes that are positioned correctly - they should be on the sides rather than the bottom, about 1-2 inches from the base. This creates a reservoir effect while still allowing excess water to escape.
Install a waterproof liner or membrane inside your planter boxes before adding soil. Use materials like pond liner, heavy-duty plastic sheeting, or specialized planter box liners. Puncture small holes in the liner that align with your drainage holes to maintain proper drainage while containing most moisture within the planter.
Create a drainage layer at the bottom of your planters using materials like gravel, pebbles, or hydro granules. This layer should be 2-3 inches deep and will help retain some water while preventing soil from clogging drainage holes. Consider adding a water-absorbent mat or capillary matting beneath your planters to catch any minor drips.
For existing planters that leak, you can add a tray or saucer underneath each planter box. Choose trays with a small lip that can catch runoff water while still allowing for evaporation. Alternatively, create a simple drainage system by connecting your planter boxes to a central collection point using small tubes or pipes.
Regular maintenance is crucial - avoid overwatering your plants and check that drainage holes remain clear of debris. During heavy rainfall, temporarily cover your planters or move them to protected areas. These solutions will help keep your balcony dry while maintaining healthy plants in your urban garden space.