The first video showed you how to make this 5 gallon self watering system. It is easy to make and costs under for materials.This video shows you how to f…
Video Rating: 4 / 5
2 of 2: Filling & Planting the Self Wicking Tomato Watering Container
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Only 1 tomato per container that is all it can handle. Ive grow cukes in one before. I dont see why 1 squash or zuke wouldnt work. They are HUGE feeders so you would have to stay on top of that.
I like this, will try it. I have a couple questions though. Can I put more than one plant in the bucket? and if so, can they be different kinds of tomatoes. Also, can i use this same technique for squash and zucchini? this will be on my deck in GA, really only have room for about 3 buckets
Put a big rock inside…
Possible but I never had that happen. Wet buckets are pretty have and base is wide.
Looks like a good idea … Only thing i’m worried about is that it will be top heavy with the tomato plant and topple over in windy weather .
Sure. Good luck!
Thank you! that is a wonderful I idea, that I will try..
A lot of the buckets do just as you say. It is a good idea. I actually just hold the hose to the hole without the funnel and it fills fast and easy. The funnel only got used, once I figured it out, to fill the reservoir up with water and a liquid fertilizer.
the funnel design seems difficult to fill…how about incorporating a 1 inch pvc pipe that goes inside from the top of the 2nd bucket down into the 1st bucket resevoir (like the global bucket guys use). do you ever use a weed cover on the soil?
I honestly think no it wouldn’t work. There are more elaborate system if you search self wicking containers that involved sealed containers with grow holes. I think you would need something like that. The are often made out of 18 gallon storage containers.
ok i live in the desert out here in cali, the water is not good for growing and we have tried other ways of growing tomatoes and other things with no luck , we get bottled water and will have to get growing soil but do you think your system will work out here
A 5 gallon bucket with holes in bottom. It should sit in a tray you can fill up with water. That is the reservoir for when you leave for several days.It like the tray you put indoor plant pots on to stop the water from leaking out. Or you can make my system with the double buckets.
Buy moisture control garden soil. Moisture control will be in the name. You should also buy a water soluble fertilizer you can mix with water.
As a new gardener, I have no idea what you’re talking about. Please clarify.
Miracle Gro usually has initial fertilizer in it. You can add some peat moss if you have it. Maybe a handful of lime or eggshells. That is enough to get your growing. As the plant gets bigger, regular feedings of half strength liquid fertilizer will keep it going. Good Luck! You sound ready.
OK, I bought all the stuff I need…I think. I got Miracle Grow Moisture Absorbency soil. Do I need to add anything else other than the peat moss to it…like fertilizer?
Great video Gary. This idea will go a long way. Thanks.
I appreciate the appreciation. Good luck.
Thanks, Gary. I’m starting this weekend! LOVE the videos…you are very much appreciated.
Gardening is great but you’ve got too much gardening time on your hands! Maybe you should wash each grain of sand before putting it into the bucket.
Yes it will work. Doesnt have to be my system but any that has a double bucket and reservoir. I would get a soil product that has high organic matter for the soil to help retain moisture. Maybe add in some of your own peat moss into the mix for more absorbancy. 8 hours of light will work.
Oh and mulch the top of the container.
THANK YOU!!!! I’m a flight attendant in Atlanta, GA. I’d like to grow some tomatoes on my patio, but I’m gone sometimes for 4 days. The plants will get about 8 hours of Georgia sun/day. Will your system work for me? Any other tips or suggestions?
Appreciated. Good luck with your garden.
Very nice video
Great video! Thank you.
The sponge works fine but you can also get away with making the hole smaller and just knotting the torn towels above and below the hole. As long as towel hits the water… the hole size really doesn’t matter.