You don't need many holes. One good one will do.Â
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A 1/2" drill bit, spun in reverse makes a good drain hole. The cutting edges won't grab and pull the bit through, if you do it like that.
If you live by a Harbor Freight they are mad cheap tools that are the same quality as the high priced stuff since everything is made in China now. Don't get me started on the $20 Stanley tape measure that is so flimsy now it kinked on the first day, and the $3 one at HF is solid as hell. But I digress. If you need a drill and some bits check them out. I have a DeWalt but got my bits there and they are no joke.
drilling is the way to go. most of my plants are in containers any other method would be very time consuming. it only takes a minute to drill enough holes for good drainage.Â
But seriously... When drilling holes into pots....
We use large muck buckets from the farm supply store. I drill drain holes on the SIDE of the buckets 2-3" up from the bottom. This allows a well of water to sit in the bottom and the roots don't get waterlogged. Like what happens with a pot with holes in the bottom and a platter below.
As far as the actual holes go... Pound a large straight blade screwdriver into the plastic pot and twist.
Heat a blade, insert and twist
Get a drill and large bits, 1/2" spade bits or similar size regular drill bits...