How to Use a Water Trough for a Planter

Water troughs are an excellent choice for a planter, especially if you have limited space for gardening or want to add a unique touch to your outdoor space. These large containers are suitable for growing flowers, herbs, and vegetables, but using them as planters requires some preparation and planning. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps of how to use a water trough for a planter.

Choosing the Right Water Trough

The first step in using a water trough for a planter is finding the right container. You want a water trough that's large enough to accommodate the plants you want to grow and has enough drainage holes to prevent root rot. Ideally, the trough should be at least 12 inches deep and wide enough to plant several plants.

When selecting a water trough for planting, consider the material it's made of. Galvanized steel is durable and rust-resistant, but it can get hot in the sun, which can harm the plants. Plastic troughs are lightweight and easy to move around, but they can deteriorate over time. Ceramic and concrete troughs are heavy but offer better insulation for the plants.

Preparing the Water Trough

Once you've chosen the water trough, you'll need to prepare it for planting. Begin by drilling drainage holes at the bottom of the trough, about four to six holes per square foot. This will allow excess water to drain out and prevent root rot. Cover the drainage holes with a layer of mesh or screen to keep the soil from escaping.

Next, fill the trough with a good quality potting soil, leaving at least two inches of space at the top. You can add a layer of gravel, sand, or perlite to the bottom of the trough for added drainage. If you're planting vegetables or herbs, mix in some compost or organic fertilizer to enrich the soil.

Choosing Plants for the Water Trough

The next step in using a water trough for a planter is selecting the right plants for your space. Consider the lighting and climate conditions in your area and choose plants that thrive in those conditions. You can mix and match different plants to create a variety of colors and textures, but make sure they have similar water and light requirements.

If you're planting in the summer, consider using heat-tolerant plants like zinnias, petunias, marigolds, or coleus. For fall or winter planting, choose plants like pansies, chrysanthemums, or ornamental cabbage. Vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and kale can also be grown in water troughs and make for a tasty addition to your garden.

Caring for Plants in the Water Trough

Water troughs require regular maintenance to keep plants healthy and thriving. Make sure to water the plants frequently, especially during hot, dry weather, and check the soil moisture level regularly. If the soil feels dry, water the plants until the excess water starts draining out of the drainage holes.

Prune the plants regularly to keep them from getting too crowded, and fertilize them once every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. If you notice any pests or diseases, treat them as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading.

Conclusion

Using a water trough for a planter is an excellent way to add some greenery to your outdoor space while conserving water and space. With the right container, soil, and plants, you can create a beautiful and functional garden that's easy to care for and maintain. Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you'll be well on your way to a thriving water trough garden.