container Drain Holes For Container Growing

My plastic 5 gallon orange big box store "pots" are giving me some drainage grief. . .What size, and how many holes do you usually put in the bottom? Any in the sides? Do you put a very large hole and use a screen to keep your dirt in?
 
Last season I drilled (6) 3/4" holes in the bottom. . .This season I drilled a Large center hole, about 2 3/8", and (4) 3/4".
 
I ask because I have been having some drainage issues. The top half of my dirt dries out quickly, but the bottom of the bucket stays REALLY saturated.
 
Living in Hell Tucson in June, I'll try anything to cool the plants and root ball.
 
Drilling a bunch of 1/2" holes to increase evaporation can't hurt.  Dirt loss through the holes is not an issue.
I think another series of holes between the existing rows is coming soon.
 
"5 gallon" nursery pots that are really about 4.  :confused:
 
IMG_4526a.jpg

 
IMG_4527a.jpg
 
I drilled about 1cm holes all around (about 6 or 8 holes), just above the bottom edge... it is better than the holes on the bottom imho
 
Always on sides unless you plan to elevate your buckets so the water can drain out of the bottom and away from the bucket. I use packing peanuts on bottom to help keep soil in and let water out.
 
Angie
 
Geonerd said:
Living in Hell Tucson in June, I'll try anything to cool the plants and root ball.
 
Drilling a bunch of 1/2" holes to increase evaporation can't hurt.  Dirt loss through the holes is not an issue.
I think another series of holes between the existing rows is coming soon.
 
"5 gallon" nursery pots that are really about 4.  :confused:
 
IMG_4526a.jpg

 
IMG_4527a.jpg
A Monrovia container I see. They grow some of the best plants that money can buy.
They call themselves, "Horticultural craftsmen" and I agree as they grow some incredible stuff. 
 
Hmmm... I have all of my peppers in pots and wonder how you noticed this issue?

I have drainage because water comes out the bottom onto the ground, but I don't know if there is excess water still in there?

I always throw in some brick-a-brack on the bottom to keep the hole open or cut a hole if there isn't one and then use the broken pottery.

I don't know how I would check for this issue?

FredD
 
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