Wine Barrel Planters

cambjones · Mar 26, 2007 1:17 pm

Hi All... I bought a unit in Bondi and I have 20 Wine Barrels on the terrace as planters.. they look great but they are all falling apart as I am guessing they are a few years old... So I am going to replace them but wondered if anyone has had any experience with wine barrel planters. Any suggestions on how to coat them so they last longer this time... Also I think need to raise them slightly so they don't sit in water and rot... any other suggestions would be most appreciated. Like ⋅ Add a comment ⋅ Pin to Ideaboard ⋅

NeilD · Mar 26, 2007 10:09 pm

I'm in no way an expert, in fact I know absolutely nothing about this. BUT, I did see on one of the TV garden shows, a guy was using some sort of non toxic paint, on the inside of wine barrels before he put the potting mix in. He said it was available from Bunnings.

Sallyho · Apr 02, 2007 5:37 pm

Hi Cambjones

you need paint the wood inside and out with a substance called copper naphthanate this will help to preserve the wood. Bunnings sells Cn Timber Oil, made by Osmose. You need to paint it on, let it dry for at least 3 days before planting in the barrel.

Good Luck

Sally

PS - Do not use the above product if you are planning on filling it with water, fish or water plants.

3timesbuilda · Apr 03, 2007 9:25 am

I suspect they are rotting from the water inside more than outside. 2 ideas you could consider for the inside.
1. Burn out the inside and the charcoal should protect the wood somewhat.
2. Coat the inside with tar and let it gas out before planting.

A coat of varnish or decking oil on the outside should enhance the wood colour/grain and protect it. One last thing as you have suggested, it is a good ideato get them off the ground a bit to avoid the moisture buildup at their base.

3xb