I mentioned in my tomato-growing method above that three 16d nail holes should be made in the bottom of the bucket. I have learned (by way of Sorcha) that sandy soils allow the bucket to drain too quickly. My soil had a high clay content. I suppose some experimentation might be in order here. Perhaps it may be wise to start with one hole and add others if needed. You may even need to reduce the size of the nail to an 8d if you live somewhere that is especially sandy.

I didn't invent this method, BTW. I think I read of it in Organic Gardening Magazine.

Now that I look back on what I did the last time I used this idea, I remember that I mulched the tomato plants with about a four-inch-thick layer of straw as well. But the straw may not work well in some areas as it might increase the chances for certain kinds of mould.