URBAN PLANTER BOXES

If water pools on the soil surface long after watering, your urban planter boxes likely have insufficient drainage. This common issue can lead to root rot and unhappy plants. Fortunately, several simple solutions can dramatically improve water flow. First, you can carefully add more drainage holes. Using a power drill with a small bit, create additional holes along the bottom edges of the planter box. For wooden boxes, ensure you don't split the wood by starting with a pilot hole. Next, create a drainage layer. Before adding soil, place a 1-2 inch layer of coarse materials like pebbles, gravel, or broken pottery shards at the bottom. This space allows excess water to collect away from the roots. You can also amend your soil mix to improve permeability. Blend your standard potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice. These additives create air pockets, helping water drain more quickly through the soil profile. For a non-invasive fix, try the "pot within a pot" method. Plant your greenery in a slightly smaller, well-draining nursery pot and then place that pot inside your decorative planter box. This allows you to easily lift the inner pot to check for and empty any standing water. Regularly check that your existing drainage holes are not blocked by compacted soil or roots. With these adjustments, your planter boxes will provide a healthier environment for robust urban gardening.