Does it have any drainage? That is see as the main problem.
Linda C

Yes, much drainage. That was my first order of business. It has some holes in the rusted metal to begin with then my husband drilled several more holes in the thing. So that is not the problem.

But thank you.

Kate

I have not tried this, mind you, though I have an old wheelbarrow in the basement....

I wonder if you could line the barrow with a thick layer of newspaper before putting soil and plants in. It seems like that would help keep the soil cooler. And then, you could always park it in the shade and plant shade plants in it.

Thanks Donna.

I think that's a terrific idea. If I decide to go with shade plants I will try that. Might try it either way. I just know there's a smart way to grow sun loving annuals in a wheelbarrow without cooking them. Maybe I'll try adding water crystals this year.

Kate

Thats amazing that you couldnt get anything to grow in it. My mom had a wheelbarrow in full sun planted with annuals. She had it for a long time before the bottom dropped out from rust. Her wheelbarrow was an old one that was really deep, so maybe the soil didnt get as hot. Hope you have better luck with it Kate.
CMK