Wicking Bed Planters

The IBC totes worked great for wicking beds, so I decided to make some smaller versions for the deck.

Check out the You Tube video below for a full picture tour!
 

Pictures of 2024 wicking bed gardens below.

The IBC totes worked great for wicking beds, so I decided to make some smaller versions for the deck.

I started by purchasing two rain barrel bulkhead fittings. These allow the barrels to be drained in the fall so they won’t split during freezing winter temperatures. After cutting the barrels in half, I drilled a hole in the bottom of each one for the bulkhead fitting. I then added a bit of water to test them and make sure there were no leaks.

The next step is creating the water reservoir at the bottom of the planter. This space stores the water that will eventually wick up to the plant roots. I used a plastic container for this layer and drilled many holes in it so water can freely move in and out of the space.

A piece of plastic pipe is used as the fill spout. The pipe should extend above the soil level so the planter can be easily filled. I drilled a hole large enough for the pipe to fit through, and cut the bottom of the pipe at an angle so it doesn’t sit flush on the base. This allows water to flow freely into the reservoir.

Once the water layer is in place, a barrier is added to keep the soil separate from the reservoir. I use landscape fabric for this. I used the same material in the IBC totes, and they’ve been working perfectly for three years now. The fabric is tucked down into the spaces so the sand layer will still make contact with the water below.

Next, a layer of sand is added. At this point, I drill a ½-inch overflow hole in the side of the barrel at the top of the reservoir level. This hole allows excess water to drain out so the soil doesn’t become waterlogged. It also acts as an indicator when filling the planter—once water begins to come out of the hole, the reservoir is full.

For soil, I use our homemade compost. Mr. FT makes sure we have plenty ready every spring.

Finally, the flowers are planted, and just like that the deck community garden is complete.

Check out my short YouTube video for the full tour 

 

Cheers!