I had a bad experience using them. I think it's important to say I live in N. California, so we are talking hot and dry. My tomatoes I planted in them didn't do well at all. At the end of the summer I dug them up, and found almost whole peat pots with very
root bound roots.
If I was given them I would use them. I would just remove the bottom, and slice the sides twords the bottom, when I put them in the ground. I just think waist not want not. Also if you live in a wetter climate, you may not have this issue. Good luck to you.