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Container Gardening

There are a number of ways to garden in containers.  One method involves a self-contained water source in addition to what water is in the soil.  A space for a water reservoir is left at the bottom of the container.  The top of this reservoir holds the soil (potting mix).  One critical element is having a column of packed soil to provide a wicking action which allows the water to "wick" up to the remainder of the soil.  An overflow hole is placed just at the top of the reservoir.  A tube is placed in the container to allow for watering.  If this tube is 1" or more, it will allow for a hose to be used to water.  A black plastic cover can be placed over the top of the soil.  This reduces evaporation and warms the soil.  It is not required.  A "X" is cut into the plastic to allow for a transplant to be planted.  The number and types of plants that may be planted can be found in the references below. Regular 10-10-10 fertilizer or organic fertilizer can be used unless you are growing tomatoes.  In which case, you might want to consider using 5-10-10 to give a better balance between the leaves and the fruit.  The fertilizer is usually placed in the center of the container all along the length of the container.  If you are going to plant tomatoes, you should consider adding a 1/2 cup of calcium (in the form of Gypsum) to the transplant hole at the time of transplanting.  For the first time, and if it ever dries out, you should soak the entire container in addition to filling up the water reservoir.

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