I want to create a container garden on my balcony. I figure I better get started now with prep and planning. I found out about Earthboxes, and although they look great, they're rather pricey. I'm in Napa, so wine barrels are plentiful and I planned to use those. If not that, I've seen a few suggestions here that would work great.

But, is there another cheap version of an Earthbox?

http://www.earthbox.com/

I'm thinking if I got a large container, put either rocks or packing peanuts on the bottom, and then cover that with grated wire it would work. Would it? I'd love any suggestions before I invest any money.

My balcony is fairly large and very sunny. I want to make sure there is some sort of self watering system. Also, if I do this self watering thing, then I wouldn't need drain holes right?

Sandy