Absolutely! Filling the bottom of deep planter boxes without using excessive soil is a smart urban gardening hack. It saves money, reduces weight for easier moving, and often improves drainage. Here are excellent recommendations for filler materials.
First, ensure your planter has drainage holes. Then, add a layer of coarse material to prevent soil from washing down. Great bottom-layer options include:
* Upside-Down Plastic Pots or Nursery Pots: Create an empty space in the center.
* Recycled Plastic Bottles or Containers: Capped bottles are ideal.
* Packing Peanuts (Biodegradable or Foam): Use foam only for non-edible plants; biodegradable ones are safer.
* Wood Chips or Small Branches: A natural, biodegradable choice.
* Lava Rock or Gravel: Excellent for drainage but adds some weight.
* Coconut Coir or Husk Chunks: Lightweight and sustainable.
After adding your filler layer, place a permeable barrier like landscape fabric or a piece of burlap over it. This separates the filler from your potting soil, preventing soil from settling into the gaps. Finally, add your high-quality potting mix on top and plant as usual.
This method creates a false bottom, giving roots ample space in the nutrient-rich soil while conserving resources. Your plants will thrive, and your back will thank you when it's time to rearrange your urban green space.