How to Use Coco Liners in the Ground

Natural liners retain moisture both in hanging baskets and in the garden.

Coco liners are the natural liners you see in decorative hanging baskets and open-weave planters. Made from coconut husks, these inexpensive liners are more than just decorative. The tough liners last several years and help retain moisture for lovely summer plants. The liners break down over time and need to be replaced, but you can reuse the old liners in ground plantings. Solve poor or rocky soil problems by planting annuals in holes lined with leftover liners.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel or hand trowel
• Coconut liners
• Scissors
• Potting soil mix for annuals
• Annuals

Instructions

1. Dig a hole in the ground two to three times larger than the root ball of the plant. Use a shovel or hand trowel to remove the poor or rocky soil.

2. Cut the coconut liner to fit the hole using sharp scissors. Cut it large enough so that the edges overlap slightly. The top edge of the liner should be just below ground level.

3. Fill the liner about half full with potting soil. Place the plants in the soil; fill the remaining space with more potting soil. Water the plants thoroughly. The liner will help retain moisture during dry conditions or in rocky areas.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove the liner and plants from the ground near the end of the growing season. Put them in flowerpots; take indoors to enjoy for a few more weeks.

References

• Coir uses

Resources

• "Easy Container Gardens"; Pamela Crawford; February 2008.