How to Garden in Wine Barrels

Lay a wine barrel on its side on level ground. Measure its length and mark its center point with chalk. Extend the mark to form a straight line around its middle.

Position the blade of the handsaw over the chalk line. Cut over the line with a steady hand to saw the barrel in two. The base and top of the whole barrel will now form the bases for the two half-barrel garden planters.

Drill four to six 1/2-inch drainage holes through the base of each half-barrel planter. Drill one of the holes through the center of the base and the others around it, spaced evenly apart.

Measure and cut a piece of mesh screen to fit over the base of the barrel. Center the screen over the base, directly above the holes, to assist drainage and prevent soil from draining out. Alternatively, spread a 2-inch-thick layer of small rocks or broken crockery pieces over the base of the barrel planter.

Move the barrel to the desired location where you want to display it. Ensure the selected spot receives the amount of sunlight needed for the container plants to thrive. Place four or five bricks on the ground and stand the half-barrel over them. Setting the barrel high allows water to drain out easier.

Fill the barrel with quality potting soil until 5 to 6 inches from the top. Alternatively, mix equal amounts of potting soil, sand, compost and peat moss and pour into the container. Also add 1 cup of all-purpose fertilizer to the medium and mix well with a trowel.

Plant the desired seeds or seedlings in the container, following label directions for depth and spacing. Insert wooden stakes next to climbing plants to support them during their ascent. Secure their tendrils to the stake with elastic ties. Water the container until excess moisture drips out of the drainage holes.