How to use/modify an old hay rack

staysail

I’ve been given an old hay rack roughly 2’ high and 2’ across. The problem I have is HOW to keep the soil in. i tried wire and coir (the results lie in the bottom!) very unsuccessfully. I think that with soil in it, it will be too heavy for the wall, but I'm happy to fasten it at ground level.  It would be nice to use something that was going to blend with the rural, vintage feel. Any ideas, please?  Thanks!

Fairygirl

You need to line it with fabric of some kind. 
The best way is to use something dark like landscape fabric, or an old jumper [or similar] then line that with plastic [with holes cut into it] to retain moisture. 

It shouldn't be a problem fixed to the  wall if you use suitable screws and plugs, and make sure the holes are deep enough into the wall.  Alternatively, attach a batten or two to the wall, and then screw it onto that. 

staysail

Thank you! I love the idea of an old jumper to line it - I think a charity shop visit may be in order! And then work out how to keep it attached to the iron. Great idea.

Fairygirl

You could wire it on - it's possible to do it well enough to be hidden. 

Plantminded

Hi there, try lining it with geotextile membrane, sold as weed suppressing membrane, and attach it inside the frame with wire or twine.  Put a few drainage holes in the base, then disguise the membrane by camouflaging it with fresh coir or moss.  Fill your rack with a suitable potting compost, including some extra grit to improve drainage.  This should produce a strong and attractive container for placing on a wall or wherever you choose.  Enjoy your planting!

staysail

Super! Thank you very much for your reply - obviously membrane is the starting point and then let the imagination loose!

Plantminded

I've just read @Fairygirl's replies - you could disguise the geotextile membrane with a jumper instead of coir or moss if you really want to!!  Then perhaps something seasonal like a teeshirt in the summer?!

WonkyWomble

You could mount it upside-down to use as a clematis support,  creates a sort of porch!

staysail

Here in Cornwall it could be a teeshirt all year - so long as you had a waterproof to add occasionally! )

staysail

WonkyWomble said:

You could mount it upside-down to use as a clematis support,  creates a sort of porch!

I suppose I coould but it would take up more groundspace - as it is there's a clematis just beside this rack endeavouring to climb a dead ceanothus....

scooty883

Chicken wire and Terram 👍