Ina, when I used to teach container gardening classes we'd often be discussing those large wooden half whiskey barrel containers. My suggestion was to use aluminum soda containers, opening side down. One or even two layers, with second layer - if any - offset from the lower layer. Then cover the cans with water permeable non-woven landscape fabric. Cut somewhat oversize, so that the fabric can be brought up against the side of the container for a few inches. Judy in sunny New Jersey where we've gone from night temperatures in the teens Fahrenheit into another heat wave. High 50s Fahrenheit predicted for today and the next two. Very peculiar weather this year. --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active. http://www.avast.com/