Ken, you are not supposed to take out the black plastic net. These types of pots are designed so that there is a layer of water below the soil, keeping the medium constantly moist. If you remove the net, then your medium will be in direct contact with water and may stay too wet. Personally I find these pots suitable for people who do not water their plants too frequently or for planting in drier environments (like a balcony). The presence of only 1 drainage hole at the side is not sufficient, considering the pot is rather deep. And be careful not to use fine material (peat) as the particles will clog up the holes in the netting, and pretty soon your plant will be waterlogged. I found that out the hard way with other garden plants when using a plastic 'flowerbed' which has a similar semi-hydroponic concept..
