Omar Khalid
Plastic is a commonly used material to line planter boxes. However, there are differing opinions on whether planter boxes should be lined with plastic. While some advocate for its waterproofing abilities and protection against rot, others prefer eco-friendly alternatives like cardboard, wool felt, and burlap fabric. Ultimately, the decision depends on the planter box's material, the plants' needs, and the desired level of durability and maintenance.
Characteristics and values of using plastic to line planter boxes
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic sheeting | Affects drainage, creating a planter with no significant drainage |
| Plastic pond liners | Thick enough to reduce evaporation of water from the soil |
| Plastic bags | Cost-effective, makeshift liner, need to punch holes for drainage |
| Plastic sheets | Regular or heavy-duty plastic sheets are commercially available |
| Plastic landscape fabric liners | Commercially available, breathable |
| Drainage | Plastic liners can affect drainage, but holes can be added to prevent waterlogging |
| Durability | Plastic liners can extend the life of the planter box by reducing rot |
| Environment | Plastic liners may not be preferable for environmental reasons |
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What You'll Learn
Benefits of lining planter boxes with plastic
Lining planter boxes with plastic provides several benefits. Firstly, it helps prolong the lifespan of the planter box by preventing deterioration and moisture damage. Plastic liners act as a protective barrier, reducing constant moisture contact with the wood, which can lead to rot and corrosion. This is especially beneficial for biodegradable planter boxes made from wood, as they are susceptible to moisture-related deterioration.
Secondly, plastic liners can help regulate temperature fluctuations within the soil. They act as insulators, absorbing and trapping excessive heat from the environment, thereby reducing the heat absorbed into the soil. This creates a more stable environment for plant growth.
Thirdly, plastic liners can restrict soil pests and weeds. By controlling the conditions within the planter box, plastic liners can reduce the chances of pests such as ants, gophers, and moles from entering and disrupting plant growth. Additionally, they can prevent the growth of weeds by blocking their entry below the soil surface.
Plastic liners also offer versatility in gardening practices. They allow gardeners to utilise a broader range of planter materials, including those not naturally suited to outdoor or moist environments, without risking water damage. This versatility enables gardeners to explore different aesthetics and functional designs in their gardens.
Lastly, plastic liners can help improve moisture retention, keeping the soil moist and reducing the need for frequent watering. This benefit is particularly useful for plants with different watering needs within the same container. However, it is important to balance moisture retention with adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging and potential plant diseases.
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Drawbacks of using plastic liners
Plastic liners are commonly used in planter boxes to protect them from water damage and prevent weeds from growing. However, there are several drawbacks to using plastic liners:
Drainage Issues
Plastic liners can affect drainage because they block the soil. Gardeners can remedy this by poking holes in the liner to provide good drainage and prevent waterlogging. However, this can defeat the purpose of protecting the planter from water damage. Drainage is critical to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Liner Damage
Plastic liners are susceptible to damage from activities such as digging with a trowel, which can cause large tears. This is especially true for thinner or lower-quality plastics.
Environmental Concerns
Plastic liners are not biodegradable, and sustainability-minded gardeners may prefer to avoid them to reduce waste and minimise their ecological footprint. There are also concerns about plastic liners leeching chemicals into the soil, which is a particular concern for those growing vegetables.
Restricted Airflow
Plastic liners restrict airflow, which can be detrimental to plant health. This makes them less suitable for plants that require good air circulation to thrive.
Cost and Complexity
Lining a planter box adds extra costs and complexity to your project. By omitting the liner, you can save money on materials and simplify the construction process.
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Alternatives to plastic liners
Plastic liners are commonly used to line planter boxes as they are effective at retaining moisture, regulating temperature, and protecting planter boxes from rotting and water damage. However, some people may prefer to use alternative materials to line their planter boxes.
One option is to use cardboard, which is a favourite in permaculture. Cardboard will completely assimilate into the soil within a year, eliminating the roots of any weeds growing from the bottom. Another option is to use gravel, which can be placed at the bottom of the planter box before placing the liner to improve drainage and reduce root rot risk.
For those looking for a low-cost fabric that offers great drainage, burlap is a good alternative. It is made from natural fibres like jute, flax, or hemp, and is both breathable and absorbent. This allows excess water to drain out while retaining enough moisture to keep the soil moist. Untreated burlap typically lasts one to two growing seasons.
Another sustainable option is thick wool felt, which provides a dense barrier while allowing moisture to pass through. Recycled plastic bags can also be used as a makeshift liner, but it is important to punch holes in them for drainage.
Finally, for small planters that are hard to fill, lining the bases with old newspaper can help with drainage. The newspaper will allow excess water to drain away while preventing compost from being flushed out.
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How to line a planter box with plastic
Lining a planter box with plastic is not always necessary, but it has its advantages. A planter box lined with plastic is less likely to rot from the inside, and it also reduces evaporation from the soil during the warmer months, helping to keep your plants well watered and healthy.
If you want to line your planter box with plastic, you can follow these steps:
First, clean and waterproof your planter box to prevent rot and mould. You can purchase separate liners from a home and garden store or an online marketplace. Plastic sheeting, such as a pond liner, is the best material for lining a planter. Cut the pond liner to roughly the same dimensions as the planter's inside cavity. Ensure that the planter is clean before you begin to line it.
Additionally, you can add to the planter's base to improve drainage. Layering small to medium pieces of broken and unwanted plant pots, chipped crockery, or even newspaper will prevent compost from escaping through the drainage holes. For small planters that are hard to fill with broken pieces, try lining their bases with old newspaper instead. The newspaper will allow excess water to drain freely away through the drainage holes, but prevent the compost from being flushed out.
It is important to note that anything that blocks water from touching the wood will cause condensation and may cause the wood to rot faster. Therefore, it is recommended to use materials that allow water to drain freely, such as newspaper or broken pieces of plant pots, in combination with the plastic liner.
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Environmental impact of plastic liners
Plastic liners are commonly used in planter boxes to protect them from deterioration caused by soil microorganisms and water. They are also used to inhibit fluctuating soil temperatures by absorbing and trapping excessive heat from the environment. However, plastic liners have an environmental impact that should be considered.
Plastic liners are typically made from HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic, which is a thick and non-biodegradable material. This means that they can persist in the environment for a long time without breaking down. If plastic liners are not disposed of properly, they can contribute to plastic pollution and have harmful effects on wildlife and ecosystems. For example, animals may become entangled in the plastic or ingest it, leading to injury or death.
Additionally, the production and disposal of plastic liners can also have environmental impacts. The manufacturing of plastic liners may involve the use of fossil fuels and the release of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change. When plastic liners are disposed of in landfills, they can take centuries to degrade and may release toxic chemicals into the soil and water.
Furthermore, plastic liners can affect the microenvironment within planter boxes. They can block soil drainage, leading to water accumulation and the growth of fungi and bacteria that can harm plants. To mitigate this, gardeners often poke holes in the liners, but this can defeat the purpose of protecting the planter box from moisture.
There are alternative options available that are more environmentally friendly than plastic liners. Natural coconut coir, jute liners, and thick biodegradable paper liners are biodegradable and toxin-free. These options may not offer the same level of moisture protection as plastic, but they are better for the environment. Additionally, using naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar or redwood can reduce the need for a liner.
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Frequently asked questions
Planter boxes do not always need to be lined, but lining a planter has benefits for both your plants and the planter's durability. Plastic sheeting is the best material for lining a planter.
Lining a planter with plastic reduces evaporation from the soil during the warmer months, keeping your plants well-watered and healthy. It also makes the planter less likely to rot from the inside.
Yes, planter box inserts are like mini containers that fit right into your planter box. You can also use recycled plastic bags, cardboard, wool felt, wood chips, straw, or burlap fabric made from jute stem fiber.
Plastic sheeting affects the drainage a lot, creating a planter with no significant drainage. Strong roots can also push through plastic sheeting.
For wooden planters, use a staple gun to attach the liner. Leave about an inch of liner above the soil line to ensure containment and trim neatly with a sharp tool for a clean finish. Don't forget to create drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
