Quote Originally Posted by bigtopsfinn
There is a problem that when I try to water the whole pot, the water will run to the sides, straight down the walls of the container, and out of the air holes on the side. I have a bowl shape in the soil where I pour the water, but I dont think I am getting the water to penetrate all of the soil.
Have you tried a surfactant? 1 tsp non anitbiotic dishsoap per gallon of water. Breaks the surface tention of the water, letting it absorb into the soil better. (just don't overdo it)

Duct tape across the holes might help, too.