planting in cast iron urns

[flower child]

I have to cast iron urns and usually put annuals in them each year. However, I always find the plastic inserts I use are not effective in keeping plants vital. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions of what to use in them. For example putting soil directly into the urns instead of a pot.

Thanks..

[B_BQ]

I have several cast iron urns. I put soil directly into the urn. The heat in summer dries out the soil very quickly, as the cast iron gets hot. However, you can use water retaining gel crystals, and other water retentive agents, to keep the soil moist. I don't think plastic inserts can hold enough soil and nutrients to keep plants going. As it is, I water twice daily, and fertilize at least twice a week, to keep things growing well.
Here's a picture of one of my cast iron urns this year.
~BBQ

IMG_1328.JPG

[flower child]

BBQ, your urn is gorgeous and lush! I have a question, you said you put the dirt directly in the urns, did you clog the holes with something so the dirt does not fall through?

Thanks..

[B_BQ]

did you clog the holes with something so the dirt does not fall through?

Yes. I put a a piece of landscape cloth, or a coffee filter, or a few broken shards of a clay pot, over the drainage hole.
~BBQ