Filling the bottom of a large planter with lightweight, low-cost materials is an easy way to use less compost, cut costs, and reduce weight, without compromising on plants. Instead of packing the entire container with potting soil, you can layer the base with alternative fillers to make planting more efficient and lower effort.
Large planters can make a dramatic statement, whether flanking your front door or acting as a focal point in a garden scheme. But that impact often comes with a downside: they require a significant volume of compost and can become extremely heavy once filled.
