Not everyone has a metal drill at home, but you will need it if you want to drill drainage holes in your zinc tub. Therefore the question arises: Can you plant a zinc tub without holes. Find out below when this is possible and when not.
Can you plant a zinc tub without drainage holes?
A zinc tub without drainage holes can be planted if it is covered or indoors. In this case, you should use a drainage layer made of expanded clay (€11.00 on Amazon) or granules and water the plants moderately to avoid waterlogging.
Why and when does the zinc tub need drainage?
The drainage ensures that excess irrigation and rain water can drain away. Almost all plants react very sensitively to waterlogging and once the roots have rotted, the plants can no longer be saved. Drainage is therefore always necessary when the water supply cannot be controlled, as is the case outdoors is. A planted zinc tub that is placed outdoors without a roof always needs drainage.
When does a zinc tub not need drainage holes?
You can do without the drainage holes if the zinc tub is covered or is in the apartment. However, you should also provide a drainage layer made of expanded clay (€11.00 on Amazon) or granules where excess irrigation water can be temporarily “stored”. It is also important that you water a zinc tub without holes only moderately.
Making holes without a drill
If you don't have a drill at hand, you can try to get the holes in the ground differently. For example, you can try punching holes in the ground with a sharp nail and a hammer. But be careful!
How big should the drainage holes be?
You should drill several well-spaced drainage holes about the size of a fingernail into a zinc tub. These are covered with potsherds or drainage fleece to prevent them from becoming clogged.
The zinc tub without holes as a pond
Your zinc tub has no holes? Perfect! Then take advantage of the fact that it is completely waterproof and plant it as a mini pond instead! Proceed as follows:
- Place your zinc tub in its final location.
- Create multiple levels using large rocks and upside down planters.
- Then place the aquatic plants in plant baskets in the desired location and secure them with stones.
- Fill the zinc tub with water.
- Finally, place floating plants and decorative elements.
Tip
Do you now want to plant your zinc tub - with or without holes? Then take a look at our design ideas and our detailed instructions. You can find these here.
