Absolutely! Lining your urban planter boxes is a crucial step for ensuring plant health and the longevity of the planter itself. The primary goals are to protect the wood from moisture and soil, improve drainage, and prevent soil from washing out.
Here are my top recommendations for materials:
1. Landscape Fabric: This is my number one choice. It's a breathable, woven material that allows water to drain through while holding the soil in place. It also acts as a barrier against rot. Simply staple or tack it to the inside of your planter box before adding soil.
2. Plastic Liners (with drainage holes): You can use a sheet of plastic, like a pond liner or even a heavy-duty trash bag. The critical step here is to puncture several holes in the bottom to allow for proper drainage. Without holes, you risk creating a swampy environment that will rot your plants' roots.
3. DIY Wood Treatment: For untreated wooden planters, you can use a non-toxic, natural wood preservative like raw linseed oil or a beeswax-based sealant to coat the interior. This helps the wood resist water. Avoid using creosote or treated wood that can leach harmful chemicals into your soil.
4. A Combination Approach: For the best results, consider combining methods. For example, you can treat the wood with a safe sealant and then add a layer of landscape fabric. This provides a double layer of protection.
No matter which material you choose, ensure you have a layer of gravel or small rocks at the very bottom of the planter, beneath your liner, to further facilitate drainage. Happy gardening