What do you plant in your Half Barrels?

[peanut]

I've got a big old half barrel that I've had for years. I intended to use it as a water feature but have given up on that as it just becomes a breeding ground for Mosquitoes!

So what do you all plant in yours?.....Inspiration needed please!

Thanks in advance.

[FionaH]

I have a half plastic water tub that I do spuds in

[sewer rat]

I have two half barrels in my garden - both have bamboo wigwams - one for sweet peas and the other for Alderman Peas.

[bramble]

I have 4 half barrels in my garden. I keep two for potatoes and the other two have daffodils, crocus and tulips in. I also plant sweet peas in them in the summer so there is nearly something flowering in them.

[Glutton4...]

If you can't/don't get organised, and don't drain them, just add a drip of olive oil. One drop. That will coat the surface of the water, and prevent to Mozzies from laying their eggs. Or it may prevent the larvae from emerging. Or sommat (can't remember, exactly ). But it works!

This applies to all water butts and containers.

[bobleponge]

My current half barrels are falling apart so am looking to replace with some new ones.
Mine will have home grown (hopefully) peach and nectarine trees in them, growing sort of espalier type stylee up the south facing wall of my house, after I have yanked out all the scabby roses that currently occupy the space.

[pigletwillie]

Mine has a fig tree in it.

[WeeGarden]

One has herbs, and the other autumn raspberries.

I'm going to empty the herb one and put in a rhubarb crown.

[peanut]

Mine has a fig tree in it.

Now that appeals Mr Piglet! Is yours free standing or trained against something?

Also like the idea of putting something tall in and seasonal.....hmmmm lots to consider.

Many thanks for all your replies thus far....keep 'em coming!!