Stock tanks as garden containers - Ask Extension
We have very limited space for gardening and we've been seeing galvanized steel stock tanks (watering troughs) in use as planters. I bought a small on...
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Stock tanks as garden containers #874870
Asked June 26, 2024, 7:26 PM EDT
We have very limited space for gardening and we've been seeing galvanized steel stock tanks (watering troughs) in use as planters. I bought a small one, 2x2x3 ft, to test the concept. Now for details: the tank has one threaded drain hole, do I need to punch more in the very flat bottom? What should be used for filling? I've been told to start with branches or small logs on the bottom then add dirt (or potting soil?). Any pointers regarding what plants might and might NOT work?
Suggestions would be greatly appreciated, as the staff at the creamery store where I bought the tank were less than helpful.
Suggestions would be greatly appreciated, as the staff at the creamery store where I bought the tank were less than helpful.
Tillamook County Oregon
Expert Response
You made a good choice! Galvanized steel stock tanks are great as planters. I have two sheep troughs in my yard where I have planted fuchsia, pentstemons, nasturtiums, salvias, columbine, ferns, marigolds, and many other annuals. I use them as replacements for cedar planters. I haven't tried planting tomatoes (which normally have deep roots) in one yet. However, I do grow some tomatoes in a big container that is only 15 inches deep and they do fine, so you might want to experiment.
You definitely need more than one drain hole. I drilled about five additional holes in the bottom of my troughs and sprayed the holes with galvanizing paint so they don't rust. It's good to place the tanks on pavers or something like that to ensure support for the bottom of the tank and good drainage. Do this before you start filling it with anything - it gets way too heavy quickly.
You could place anything in the bottom that won't quickly degrade to take up space. This could be rocks, gravel, pottery shards, plastic milk jugs, old wood, logs, etc.. Depending on the plants you choose, you may only need 12-15 inches of soil. Then put down some landscape fabric to help keep your soil from washing away.
You can use any garden soil available at garden centers. You might want to mix in a little compost too. You should then be able to plant anything that doesn't have deep roots.
Good luck with your new planters.
You definitely need more than one drain hole. I drilled about five additional holes in the bottom of my troughs and sprayed the holes with galvanizing paint so they don't rust. It's good to place the tanks on pavers or something like that to ensure support for the bottom of the tank and good drainage. Do this before you start filling it with anything - it gets way too heavy quickly.
You could place anything in the bottom that won't quickly degrade to take up space. This could be rocks, gravel, pottery shards, plastic milk jugs, old wood, logs, etc.. Depending on the plants you choose, you may only need 12-15 inches of soil. Then put down some landscape fabric to help keep your soil from washing away.
You can use any garden soil available at garden centers. You might want to mix in a little compost too. You should then be able to plant anything that doesn't have deep roots.
Good luck with your new planters.
Hi Bill, Thanks so much for your insights. I've got my drain holes drilled, looking now for that old can of Rust-oleum.
Small world isn't it? Thanks again
Jim Border
Netarts
NCLC Steward
Sand Lake
Jim - You're welcome! Thanks for volunteering with NCLC too - Sand lake is a neat property.
