If a water-tight container is being used, drainage holes will have to be drilled. Also, don't worry about lining the bottom of the container with course gravel or charcoal to expedite drainage. Recent research indicates that such a gradient in materials actually impedes drainage. If a loose soilless mix is used, water drainage through drain holes will not be a problem. The taller the container, the more difficult it is to obtain even water distribution.
Some people utilize whiskey barrels as containers in which to plant.
To insure an even distribution of water throughout the container as well as reduce the amount of soilless mix needed, construct a center core of a rapid draining material. I have had success using a cylinder of concrete reinforcing wire filled with coarse bark. Soilless mix is added around the cylinder from the bottom of the barrel as transplants are placed through drilled holes in the side. Watering is always done in the center core so that plants at the top as well as the bottom have equal access to moisture. Porta-plants require adequate fertility for vigorous growth and, if you are growing fruit and vegetables, high yields.