This landscape fabric method is a great simple way to do this without needing to cut a false bottom from another container. Thanks for sharing

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

You are so welcome!

Love "Gardening with Leon". Thanks for the video.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Leon's Da Man :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

I got an Earth Box for Christmas because of the video you made. I've known about wicking boxes for years now but never tried them.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I'm excited to use mine in a few months. Should be fun :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

Glad I saw this video. You explain very well. I want to give this a try this year with my tomatoes.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

So nice of you. Thanks for watching

@frankdavidson9675

2 жыл бұрын

been planting my tom . sucker s for years let them grow to pencil size snip burry about 2/3 in ground they will grow to big new free tom plant

Thanks for sharing your gardening tips.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Bettye's Cooking Channel You bet, glad to help!

Looking good . I saw Leon making those tubes . He has a lot of great ideas . You can move those tubes where ever you want to . Good for growing thing like mint because mint will take over your garden . Roots are like runners and they go every where . Daniel at the Armes Family even made some tubes just using water . He didn't do so well with those because of the heat . Be interesting to see how you set up your automatic watering system .

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I'm looking forward to growing this spring. Keep watching :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

Love Gardening with Leon- family is in Texas-- I have been telling them to use these

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

They really do a great job growing food. Thanks!

Thank you for sharing I enjoyed the video have a great day and take care

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching ! alan homesteadadvisor.com/

I loved using up those milk cartons in my planters instead of having to buy a plastic platform.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

It's a lot cheaper for sure. I think the cartons will last for several years. I used to have a bunch of them, but I chunked them a few years ago :(

Love this video You did a great job explaining and demonstrating this concept.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much... Glad you enjoyed it!

@firehorsewoman414

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX this was the first video I watched from your channel - just found you. I live in D/Fw area and have a horrible problem with fire ants. I try not to use pesticides in the garden - do you have any solution to this issue? EDIT: Never mind this question - I looked through your videos and found the one you did regarding fire ants. Will watch it shortly. :)

Thanks for sharing this.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

Thank you for the details in building it, you nailed it sir. I've watched Leon and another you tuber ref. Leon's, but both left me wonder where I should drill the drainage hole and where I should place my water tube.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Glad I could help! I try to explain as best I can, but some folks say I talk too much 😎

@cherriemckinstry131

4 жыл бұрын

I think it works better if no soil goes all the way to the bottom. I used a vlay silt mix up to below the milk carton lids. Then i added three inches of potting soil, then two inch layer of composted soil with some bark bits. So far, my okra looks happy and so do the tomatoes. Then im growing beans in a bin with just holes 2in up the sides. They are happy too.

@Anna-cm7yu

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Please ignore the folks who complain about you talking too much. Your explanation helps the beginner gardener. They can “up the playback speed” if they have issues.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

hahaha.... thanks! 👍

I really think you will like the tubs! Leon is a great guy and he sure knows his gardening!

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Leon's Da Man :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

@windyloom2267

4 жыл бұрын

I called Leon and he said to lower the drainage holes. i had to dump out the water, rinse with plain water and drain and then refill it. I had the holes too high and a big water storage. They should only be 3-4 inches from the bottom.

@windyloom2267

4 жыл бұрын

He is awesome

@thedbcooperforum

3 күн бұрын

I have a box in testing now and appears to just saturate the soil and having to refill every couple days...

HI I just learned something new today. I am not understanding the science behind it yet, I have to do more research. I am very new to gardening and I just subscribed to your channel. Eager to learn more. I watched your blackberry Prime Ark freedom videos. I am about to plant them. I just bought them and will be planting them soon. I live in zone 9 i hope it is ok to do so now. Looking forward to learn more from everyone!! thank you

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

If it's beginning to cool off where you are you could do it now. I usually wait till Nov/Dec... but we're pretty close.

I am so excited to have found your channel and subscribed! I'm a newbie (60 years young) starting a backyard nursery for blackberries and possibly Chicago Hardy Figs. This tub is the ticket! Thank you and God Bless! - Kurt

@BIGALTX

9 ай бұрын

Welcome!! You’re still a young man. I’ve got more than a decade on you! 😎

@kckola4553

8 ай бұрын

@@BIGALTX - Do you know how much Leon sells his wicking tubs for? I was thinking I might do the same up here in WI

@BIGALTX

8 ай бұрын

@@kckola4553 I don't know, but the shipping would be awful. Try to find someone in your area that raises cattle. They should have some tubs. Here are some vids on that subject: Wicking Tubs: Here's how to get them: kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html Here's how to make them: kzread.info/dash/bejne/a5upsNGQgJvFnNY.html Here's my "Hybrid" tub: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pJWYqqSanpqTcqw.html

@kckola4553

8 ай бұрын

@@BIGALTX No- no, I'm sorry. I'm making a bunch of wicking pots and I'm going to SELL them myself, so I was curious as to the price tag Leon was putting on them. Sorry for the confusion

@BIGALTX

8 ай бұрын

@@kckola4553 Several years ago I think I heard him sat $23of $25 but with the price of potting mix going up, it should be a lot more. The only problem is, once you get into the mid to high $30's you are competing with the Earthbox (which I really like... i've got 22 of them) And EB's will last a lot longer than these tubs Good luck to you

Those are nice! I have some 55 gallon drums I cut in half for my blackberries. I might just try this. Where did you get your potting soil from? Thank you for all the content you put out. We are on a slow but sure process of clearing and planting our space, and folks like you add clarity and direction to our efforts with your videos.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the kind words. Potting mix came from a Hughes Nursery near Bullard. All the best, alan homesteadadvisor.com/

I can’t find the video where you are addressing the mosquito problem but , I have followed your directions on making the tubs and will put a piece of the fabric that covers the pipe on the hybrid tubs over the 1/2” weep hole pipe that runs out the side of mine to prevent entrance. Will also just put a removable cap on the fill tube up top. Thought I would give you a suggestion ! Thanks for your videos !

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

What I do for mosquitos: kzread.info/dash/bejne/mqepj5VqYqu0mpM.html

I ran across your channel researching Blackberries. I found Leon's wicking tubs a few years ago but what I do has been working great for 20+ yrs so I don't see a need to change. What I do is use 5gal buckets for tomatoes and peppers. I just drill a few1/4 in. drain holes about 1in from the bottom and fill with potting mix. Heck, some still have the original potting mix in them ofcoarse I do have to add some each year. My thought originally was to hold an inch of water in the bottom to wick when it gets dry and drain any water above that level. I do water with automatic watering system from the top giving them a quart of water every 12 hours. I also have a Satsuma tree in a 18 gal tud designed the same way and it's doing great too. I'm no way bashing the wicking tubs but just throwing this out there for the folks that can't afford the expense of making a true wicking tub. A five gal bucket is only 3 or 4 dollars and works great for tomatoes and peppers. However I will be making wicking tubs when I put in my thornless berry patch next spring.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad to hear about your experience in growing in 5 gallon buckets. Lots of folks say they can't find any of these tubs. Thanks for sharing!

Happy Leon's work appealed to you! He is a super friendly guy.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I talked to him on the phone for 30 minutes or more. Nice guy :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

@stevenholton438

3 жыл бұрын

Not nice enought to share his phone number apparently....why do people do that? Shame!

There are many variations to set up a wicking type tub or self watering container, as that is what they are. You variation is a little different than Mr. Leons and thats fine. Mr. Leon even went to using plastic bottles instead of pipe. If you are not fortunate to have access to those awesome cattle feed tubs, you can use other tubs you can purchase from big box stores. Even the heavier duty Rubbermaid storage container bottoms will work for veggies growing, but not good for trees.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Absolutely correct. These can be made from most any container, if deep enough.

I saw a video plant a tree in the ground make wicking in ground put rocks tubs and fertilizer

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Cool!

I appreciate knowing about the soil volume/gallons! That helps a lot right there. My question is what is purpose of the lime? Love Leon’s videos but I learned some new understanding after watching your video.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Lime is for PH. The PH needs to be around 7 and lime will get you there.

@jeanettehaygood4154

4 жыл бұрын

TexasPrepper2 thank you!

(mind blown sound here) OK. I have been using the cloth grow-pots (they're fantastic) but they can dry out rapidly due to the air circulation around the bag. I was setting up a (plastic) 1/2 barrel for a gardenia and I was looking for more soil at the base. I had an empty grow bag that was sitting about and I thought; if I half-buried the bag into the barrel I would get that much more soil from the raised tier. The grow bag fit perfectly into the barrel with about 2" between the walls of bag/barrel. I drilled some holes around the base to allow for drainage with the expectation that the growbag would wick the deeper water back up to the higher root zone. It also acts as an indicator as to the dry-state of the barrel. I really like this arrangement and was looking to do it again but your video has sent me into hard-ponder mode. Thank you for the inspiration! :)

@brdlysct

2 жыл бұрын

Uhm. Fig trees don't like water. :(

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Give it a try!

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

My figs did GREAT in these tubs I recently planted the figs in the ground, but they spent a whole season in the tubs... they grew like crazy kzread.info/dash/bejne/ln5219WjmbCslM4.html

To save garden clothe, consider capping the ends of the drain pipes with garden clothe and zip ties. Then for the base layer, use vermiculite and peat moss for the wicking mix. Place the drain tube inside one of your drain pipes. Lastly, add potting mix for the plants on top of the peat moss vermiculite mix. No need for the fill tube. Just water the plant until water comes put of the drain tube.

@jimdraper6193

4 жыл бұрын

smhollanshead thanks 😊 a million

@lvl0rg4n

4 жыл бұрын

I just came into the comments to see if anyone had capped their pipes! Thanks for posting. What do you mean by "place the drain tube inside one of your drain pipes"? Do you mean make sure the drainage hole is lined up with the drain pipe or something else?

@gilabola4642

4 жыл бұрын

thats a great idea. Looks like this channel's owner has used your suggestion and create a video about it - kzread.info/dash/bejne/pJWYqqSanpqTcqw.html

@joegallehgos1301

4 жыл бұрын

smhollanshead Drain tube drain pipe?

I enjoyed your video. Wish you would do one for tomato’s. Also, how do you tell when it’s time to water? Thanks again

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Will do soon

My only concern would be contamination from the plastic sock covered tubes. 5gallon buckets can be bought in food grade but the drain lines could be a hazardous material that contaminate the plants and hence the fruit

That weed barrier looks like the row covers that I use. If it’s the same, it’s like a tarp and water will not penetrate it very well if at all.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Not sure what you're using, but this is "ground cover". I think it lets the water through, but in these tubs the water will "wick" up from the "wells" on each side of the outside pipes. The roots will hit the material and stop (root pruning), but the water will come from the wicking wells. I probably made that as clear as mud :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

@joeyc4558

4 жыл бұрын

Sounds good. I look forward to seeing your results with the containers. May give me some ideas 😀

I have some of that black pipe laying around still from my dads stash when he was alive and running his business, but it’s solid and doesn’t have the drainage slits in it can that be used or do I need to get the kind with slits in it! I wish I had access to those tubs our cattle farmer friends told me our feed store doesn’t sell that type of product in the bucket anymore so they no longer have them.

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

They do NOT have to be perforated. I don't know where you live, but EVERYBODY uses these tubs for their cows ... still do... I think you should be able to find some.

Thanks for this video! Just wondering why you are using the drainage pipes instead of milk jugs? With the milk jugs and coke bottles you don't have to buy a thing right? I imagine the landscape fabric and drainage pipes cost a bit?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I just don't have any milk jugs. I used to save them but threw them away a few years ago :(

At 73 I do not want to fight the Tiller anymore. This looks great. Can I use a rain barrel to feed them?

@BIGALTX

4 ай бұрын

Well… I’m almost 72 myself. So you’ve got me beat by a little bit 😊 I think a rain barrel would feed them just fine. You might have to elevate the rain barrel to get a decent PSI. Or, you could use a small solar powered pump, like for a little fish, pond, or something like that. Might work. Not sure.

New subscriber! I'm going to either make these, or the galvanized ones another KZreadr posted. I love the self wicking concept, and your Blackberries went absolutely crazy!! I live in Colorado, so I know I have to be extremely careful of which variety blackberries to get that will thrive in this environment. My question is, will the plastic tubs leech toxic chemicals into the soil over time? According to the research I've done on the galvanized tubs, they can eventually leech trace amounts of zinc and cadmium into the soil, but its at such trace amounts that it isn't cause for concern.

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

I would think the galvanization process is much more "toxic" than these plastic tubes. But really haven't researched it. You'll like the berries in containers. BTW... the Prime Ark Freedon blackberries really took a hit from the TX freeze. I had one container (an EarthBox) with Quachita berries in it and there was absolutely NO damage from the freeze. So... do your own research as to varieties.. there ARE differences in cold hardiness.

When watering do use straight water Or do use Hydroponic fertilizer mix in the water

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Mostly just straight water. About once a month (depending on what i'm growing) I hook up the Fertilizer Injector and add fertilizer. Here it is... The link is below the video: kzread.info/dash/bejne/fpumzM6nj5fJp6g.html

Great videos on the wicking tubs and the use of your earthboxes throughout your garden. We started using the earthboxes this year, and have had the worst experience with mosquitoes and can only assume they are breeding in the water reservoir of the earthboxes. Have you experienced the same and if so, have you been able to prevent this from happening? Thank you for sharing.

@BIGALTX

8 ай бұрын

This is what I do: kzread.info/dash/bejne/mqepj5VqYqu0mpM.html The link to the product is in the Description below the video Hope that helps

@richardwilliams3302

8 ай бұрын

@@BIGALTX thank you again and I appreciate you passing this along.

Well I thought that I would add my two cents that may save you more than two cents. The drain holes are about the size of a regular pencil not an elementary pencil size. Ok next I know where the top hole is for the bucket drainage for air space. Plus everyone knows that have done this method knows you have to water till your plants reach the moist soil that is wet. If not your plant will die unless you get lucky and get a few perfect rains. Now my two cents. If you listen to Leon he talked about to much water from heavy rains that will water log the roots and your plant will mot survive. Here is the solution if you can’t take them inside to avoid flooding of the container. First I put four or five pencil size holes an inch above the bottom of the bucket. On all these holes I place a square of electrical tape over them but make sure the bucket is dry. If you already have flooded buckets just drill these holes and empty the water logged soil. There will be plenty of moisture left. I went ahead and put a hole half way up as well to facilitate getting rid of the water logged bucket. Remember to put tape over the holes when your finished. But leave your original holes open. I see some people putting to pvc white pipes down them. Just make sure that you cut them at a 45 degree angle towards the bottom outside from around 2 up from the bottom. Them cover with ground cloth the black cheap stuff. Then wrap then around the cloth but leave hole with no tape on if. I also help the air space in the bottom soil with styrofoam peanuts to take up space. I turn the pvc pipe to the side away from the soil and there is usually a few peanuts in from where the soil can retard the inflow of water going to the bottles with holes. Just one more thing put the oven pipe opposite your bucket handle. The only real problem is plant diseases and plant bugs snd other pests. Stop this early and try to keep your cucumber, zucchini, and other vine plants leafs from getting wet except by rain. These buckets are great. I tried the tubs but Leon forgot to mention it to us a opaq one or clear one and that was just terrible. Plus if you live in Florida or a hot area like 80+ the hole day and then 90’s & 100’s you knee shade half the day. The opposite side of the house or shed or some kind of netting or old plywood but paint it to keep from warping. Good luck! Oh you don’t need to totally fill it when you start because your soil will float up and over the sides. Water the top and put in a little at a time.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Great tips, thanks! I have had some VERY heavy rains since I've been using the Wicking Tubs, but have never had a problem with plants being over watered.

Thank you for the video. I've seen several of these types and others before, and have made them in the past. Is there a major advantage to using the ground cover/liner over simply covering the corrugated pipe with vermiculite/moss and or sand - for wicking (besides the pipes getting soil in them)? I had made mine with the pipe covered by soil, but had the pipes' ends enclosed in fabric with an overflow tube tucked inside the pipe at ~ 3". Also, do you cover the pvc pipe fill tube top to keep bugs and whatnot out in between waterings? I kept getting spiders and bugs in mine... Thank you again for your efforts, these videos are very much appreciated.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

You can't let the soil mix get into the pipes. Either using a "socked pipe" like I show here: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pJWYqqSanpqTcqw.html Or using landscape cloth to cover the ends is ok. I don't cover the fill tubes, but I DO use this for mosquitos: kzread.info/dash/bejne/mqepj5VqYqu0mpM.html

@BestIsntEasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX 💗🤝💗 2nd video of yours I've touched. Appreciate your sweet spirit and way of teaching.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! :)

Leon hooked me on milk jugs and water bottles, I understand a fruit tree would be in the container much longer than veggies. ..

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

I'm going to try the milk jug thing... looks cool... and soooooo easy!

Just wondering how long you leave your fruit trees in those containers... great video

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

I had planned on leaving the figs there indefinitely, but decided to get more blackberries for the orange tubs. Figs do well in containers. Other trees can do well, but it depends on the variety

Alan , what is your procedure for getting the tubs ready to plant vegetables in the 2nd year ?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

If it's blackberries or fruit trees, I don't do much. The tubs are almost completely taken over by the root system, so I just fertilize with water soluble fertilizer down the fill tube. If it's veggies (since I have removed last years residue) I try to pull out last year's fertilizer that I put around the rim of the tubs. I feel like several years of that and I would have a salt buildup from the fert. Then, I add more potting mix to fill it, more lime, and more fertilizer... just like the initial planting.

You must be getting close to 60😂 My knees pop like your does every time I squat!

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

I’m not even NEAR 60. But I AM near 70 😎. (69)

Where can I buy the BM7? Bought my trees at Bob Wells. Having a hard time finding the BM7. Love your channel.

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

I get mine at Hughes Plant Farm on Hwy 69 - south of Tyler - north of Bullard. It's about $13 per bag (3 CF i think) Hope that helps.

Can you list what to look for when purchasing the ground cover material? I had bought some from Lowes, but it's not the same as what you are using. I'm not sure how long it will last or if it matters. I do have an endless supply of tubs, haha! We have cattle and have many tubs sitting around!

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Yes I can I'd go to my local nursery and try to buy the same cloth they lay on the floor of their greenhouses, walkways, etc THAT will be the good stuff.

Wondering about the cost of buying soil, plus the fertilizer! One thing I did learn is bagged soils and fertilizer is sooo expensive it's not worth growing my own food!

@shilohharris7333

4 жыл бұрын

The cheapest bagged soil I've found is from Dollar General and is $2.50 per bag. It may not be the best quality, but it seems to work! I'm about to try this type of thing with buckets from Aldi and gallon jugs and a t-shirt (what I had on hand) and see how it goes!

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Good point, but the soil remains viable in the containers for many years. You don't have to replace it every year.

@przybyla420

3 жыл бұрын

You are buying bags of soil. It’s akin to buying water one bottle at a time. Have compost delivered and tightly tarp what you don’t use right away. It keeps.

Great video. Why/how does this work? Thanks for the tutorials. I want a blackberry hedge.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

There is a water reservoir at the bottom that wicks the water up to the plants. Here are my blackberries in these tubs: kzread.info/head/PLutBw50GI1zw9M4UxWAN3n9yeJ_WYS8TD

@Anythingforfreedom

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX I was able to find them, but thanks for the response! And your content!

Would the bm7 work for earth box vegetables as well? I have a hand headed to nursery at Bullard now. What fertilizer would you add to the earth box vegetables? Would you add any to the Fruit tree lick tubs? Last question, source for the 4” pipe?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

I used the BM7 on everything... tubs, EBs, grow bags, etc. EB says use a 7-7-7 fert. (i think), but any complete fertilizer will work. This year, I'm going to try to use nothing but 20-20-20 water soluble and Complete Organic Fertilizer from Hoss Tools. The 20-20-20 worked wonders for me last year. Here's my affiliate link to Hoss: bit.ly/homesteadadvisor I just put a tablespoon down the fill tube every couple of weeks and watered... easy. But, I had also used some 10-20-10 when I first made the tubs and EBs. 4" pipe is at HD or Lowes, but I suggest you make one like this: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pJWYqqSanpqTcqw.html I got that pipe at HDepot

Great Video, I have 3 questions, 1. What size hole do you drill for the drain hole? 2. What diameter fill tubes do you use, I have some ¾ pvc lying around, but what size is your filler....3. You mention putting 1 lb lime for fruit trees, what amendments do you use for blackberries and also veggies like peppers or tomatoes or beans? is it a different mix for every veggie if so do you have a guide?

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

I use the same potting mix and amendments for all of my stuff. Trees, berries and veggies get the same treatment. If I planted Blueberries... they would not get the lime. Blueberries need lower PH. The hole is about 1/2" but it's not critical The filler tube is 1 1/4". 3/4" might work, but easier to get a hose down into a larger one.

@CraigDAL12

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Awesome, thanks for the quick reply I'm putting it together this weekend, if I can get the paint in time, my tubs are black and I want to paint white for the Tx heat.

@user-gw9zz7iw9t

Жыл бұрын

I would think that the very most important criteria to get spot on would be the correct PH for the particular plant you're planting . The uptake of nutrients is at its best when the plants PH requirements are met. There is no need for a scatter gun effect to applying fertilizer and minerals. There are charts available that tell you exactly what a plants needs are..,.,but if the PH is incorrect the plant can't absorb properly the needed amounts that results in maximum health and production for that plant

I've never heard of wicking tubs, do they prevent over watering? I'm learning here and have just subbed and clicked for notification. I too in Texas. Tfs!

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Prevent overwatering? Yes... any excess water drains from the "weep hole" on the side of the tub. Unless the hole gets plugged, I don't see any way they would be overwatered. You have to use potting mix and not regular soil for the wicking to take place.

I couldn’t find the landscape material. So I used sand bags from true value. I used 2 sandbags in each tub. Hope it works. Don’t know the lifespan of the bags but more sturdy than the cheap landscape material.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Just need to make sure the potting mix doesn't get in the pipes and clog them up. Here's my Hybrid tub: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pJWYqqSanpqTcqw.html

I suppose large drinking water pipe with holes drilled into it could replace the non rated drain pipe. The filter sock I don't know. 7:59

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

You have to keep the potting soil out of the pipes. That's why they need socks, or landscape cloth

@user-gw9zz7iw9t

Жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX yes. Thank you

Where did you get those colorful planters ? How many inches is the blue ? Thanks

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

They are about 20" tall and 20" wide... probably 20 gallons Building Wicking Tubs: kzread.info/dash/bejne/a5upsNGQgJvFnNY.html How to find them for free: kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html

Wonder why Leon doesn’t use landscape fabric when using soda pop bottle wicking tubs

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Doesn't have to. The holes in the bottles are too small to let the potting mix in. Landscape cloth is only used to keep the mix out of the corrugated pipes.

I think the fabric will work it's way down into the bottom of the tub, and allow the soil to touch the water. Will that allow water to wick into the soil too fast? (I was amazed how my wicking beds' poly was pulled down from the sides as my beds' soil got heavy. On my channel, "what didn't work").

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I haven't noticed any noticeable "pull down" in my tubs, but when I installed it, it was long enough to be out of the tub. I had to tuck it in so it wouldn't stick up out of the tub. I watched your video. Maybe you could have had the fabric a little higher on the edges to allow for the settling... but not sure.

@TheRainHarvester

4 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX yes, that was a mistake I made. Maybe for these smaller tubs, the fabric will be stiff enough to handle the weight. Mine endured for a year, but then I noticed the roots, and lower water level.

What kind of orange tree can we grow in zone 8, I think that is where you are also.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Satsuma orange is supposed to do well here. I'll be getting mine from Bob Wells Nursery. I'll probably get the "Bumper Satsuma". Here is a link: bobwellsnursery.com/?s=satsuma&post_type=product

Your have shown me a better way of gardening. I'm 67 yrs old disabled, retired suffering with chronic back pain from Arthritis. Been container gardening for 3 yrs. Many problems watering and weeds mainly. I've been wondering if I could use containers to grow fruit trees for my yard where I rent without being invasive. K won't have to watch other do what I enjoy doing. Thank you for the info keep teaching.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I'll try to do a "container fruit tree" video next week. The trees I have in containers are looking great ! :)

How much water do you put in it at the beginning? Also how often and how do you you water?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Marshall Ingram Amount of water depends on the season. Summertime will probably be daily. They hold about 3 gal.

What landscape fabric do you use

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

I get mine from a nursery near me. It's a commercial landscape cover. The kind they lay on the floors of their greenhouses. It lasts a long time. Try to buy the best one you can.

Where did you get BM7 in Texas? I don’t see any Texas sales locations on their website (I’m in the DFW area)

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Mine was at Hughes Nursery near Bullard. Try to find a "wholesale" nursery near you. Someone who sells to landscape companies, etc. alan homesteadadvisor.com/

I’m in N Texas - what type of orange tree did you find that works ?

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

I had a satsuma orange tree for several years. It finally died. I’m not sure there is any orange tree that would work in north Texas, but do your own research. I think there is something called an “arctic” Satsuma that you might want to look at.

I built 1 tub last year as an experiment for growing my tomatoes. It worked like a charm. The plant grew really well and I hardly had to water, especially with the rain helping out. I plan to build more this spring.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Great to know... thanks! alan homesteadadvisor.com/

@ze-xi8rf

4 жыл бұрын

Phil Brown.... Thank for your comment. I only have City water so I'm glad to know for sure that it really saves on the water.

Do you think you could use 2 rows of 4 inch pipe and have the drain hole at 7 inches? I was hoping this would extend then time needing water.

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

Not sure I think it might be worth a try But remember, you're limiting the soil volume so you might not get as big of a root ball on your plants

@ronaldphillips8750

Жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Thanks for your rsponse.

What potting mix do you use and/or do you gave a diy mix?

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Any good potting mix will work. I used Berger BM7 in this video. You can see the bags at about 11:00 in the video

Can perennial trees/plants handle below freezing temps in these tubs, or will they need to be insulated?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I'm going to do a video on that subject next week... but think about it... the plants survive all winter in pots at the nursery before you bought them. So, if they'll survive winter in a 1 gallon pot, why wouldn't they survive in a 20 gallon pot which would provide more "earth insulation"? The video will go into more detail. Watch for it :)

@GodlessGardener

4 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX I understand, but the nursery usually keep their plants in greenhouses and not exposed to things like windchill. I'll keep an eye out for your video on it. Thanks!

How long you cut the tube in the bottom the long and short

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

I really don't remember. Also the tubs can be different sizes, so the pipes for the blue tubs were a little different than the red and orange tubs.

I just got my first 5 gallon wicking tub set up but I think I went too high with the drain hole. I've got mine at 5 inches to the drain hole and the water bottles inside have holes at 6 inches at the top of water bottles. Will I be ok? Or do I need to drop my drain hole??

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

The hole needs to be 1 inch below the top of the baffle (in your case the bottles) ... so I think you did it right.

Can you use long coil of drain pipe instead of short pieces?

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. Watch this demo I did at a workshop at about 5:48 - kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZXaIl69mpcjFc9o.html

@charlenequinilty7252

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX thank you enjoyed the video

How do you water after planting?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Through the "fill tube". I show it at 7:45

how much life do you get out of those tubs in the hot Texas summer sun? what ph level are you trying to achieve in the potting soil by adding lime?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

This will be my first time to use them, so I don't know how long they will last. But, Leon says 5+ years. The orange ones are a lot thicker than the blue ones, so they should last longer. alan homesteadadvisor.com/

@przybyla420

3 жыл бұрын

You could wrap it with cardboard for the summer or burlap or something to block the UV. Or a big piece of bark off a log if there are big trees in your neck of the woods.

@royhoco5748

3 жыл бұрын

@@przybyla420 good ideas and now I am thinking black 6 mil plastic which I use to wrap tote water tanks to keep algae from growing.

I'm in Australia is that liner plastic or sarlon liner with holes in it hard to see what your doing

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I'm sure it's some kind of plastic or polyester. Here is some on Amazon: amzn.to/32w480B Rob Bob is in AU or NZ and uses it, so it should be available to you. Check out his channel: kzread.info Hope that helps, and Greetings from Texas! alan

Alan, did you say how long to cut the 4" pipe? Or how do I determine the lengths?

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

All the tubs are different sizes, so it's hard to give exact lengths I have 3 different styles and all 3 are different You'll just have to do trial and error Lots of folks are doing a "spiral" with a longer piece of pipe (like a cinnamon roll) instead of cutting 3 lengths of pipe

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

Watch at about 7 minutes: kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZXaIl69mpcjFc9o.html

@cindyjohnson5242

Жыл бұрын

@TexasPrepper2 thank you very much!

Does that material allow water to come through to the soil.

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

You bet. It's landscape fabric. Lets water through really well.

Brand new to gardening and built these containers. My question is after the dirt and fertilizer is in…I transplant some lettuce. How long do I water from the top until the wicking catches up to the new transplant? Another question is sowing seeds directly into this pot. How long do I water from the top until the wicking takes over watering my direct sow seeds? Any advice is appreciated. I am probably over-thinking, but stuck on these 2 questions.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Really, you just need to water once or twice. The potting mix starts wicking very quickly. Hopefully you used "mix" not regular dirt... dirt won't wick very well

@Anna-cm7yu

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Yes..I used the premium potting mix suggested by Mr. Leon. Thank you for answering my questions. I know that you grow lots of blackberries..would your mixture work the same for blueberries? I used the fertilizer mix that Mr. Leon suggested, but I am reading that blueberries need more acidic soil. First time gardener in the suburbs and loving the container gardening every minute.

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

I use the same mix for everything. I don't grow blueberries, but as I understand it, they need acid soil. So, I wouldn't add ANY lime to the potting mix.

@Anna-cm7yu

2 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Thank you so much for replying. I appreciate all the knowledge as I grow as a gardener.

I'm doing 8 of these this year for the first time. What I'm having a problem understanding is how the roots get the benefit of air pruning. Leon has mentioned this as well. There is the top inch of air always in the pipe when the water drains, but the roots don't have a way to access the air/water directly. Am I missing something? The roots definitely don't have a chance to hit air when using the milk jugs and not using the fabric.

@joegallehgos1301

4 жыл бұрын

Josh Crawford I believe a few of the roots grow through the holes into where the air is, they signal the rest of the roots to stop and they self prune. This is just my guess. I had the same question.

@rayblazejko6908

4 жыл бұрын

This may help. To make the pot even more efficient drill holes in the side above the drain hole . About 2 inch size holes . Maybe 50 all around. As the plant grows in the pot the roots will grow until they reach the air coming in. At that point that root will stop growing and another root will form until the same thing happens. The plant can remain in the pot indefinitely without becoming root bound . In a normal pot several roots will grow and grow and grow until a larger pot would be needed. Plants in an air pruning pot are much healthier . Do an experiment comparing the difference . Maybe Google air pruning . There is a lot of information . Your welcome

@carolynmchugh4554

Жыл бұрын

The drain hole is 3 inch above the bottom, the wicking tube in bottom is 4 inches high so there is a air gap of 1 inch which roots can't get into and it is bigger as the water is used up.... Leon explained it once on one of his videos.

i have had issues with blossom end rot on my beefsteak tomatoes. The cherry tomatoes have no issues. I checked my ph and it was actually high (between 8.3 and 8.7 on all nine of them). I just put some cal/mag on it, added a ph reducer and sprayed them with the blossom rot spray. Any other suggestions? I keep hearing it eventually "corrects itself" but I don't understand how or why. I will admit that cattle tub growing produce a huge plant. This has been a ridiculously hot and dry summer and I do water regularly on top of keeping the tubs filled.

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

This year has been tough for sure And yes, most BER resolves itself eventually Here's an article I wrote on BER: homesteadadvisor.com/tomato-blossom-end-rot/

@danhogle1776

Жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Thank you

I watched Leon's videos too. I dont understand one thing in your guide: You are not allowing the soil to touch the water from the sides. How can the soil wick up the water if it is not touching it? Thanks

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

Sure... notice I push down the black cloth down to the bottom of the tub That's where it wicks the water. Doesn't take much surface area.

I love the tubs shown here in Leon's videos - but I can't find them anywhere. Do you know who sells them on-line?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

Sure... here are some: amzn.to/3aFXzhI

@kefirheals7383

3 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX --Thank you so much.

@FreeRangeRoss

2 жыл бұрын

if you're still looking, Lowes has the same tubs, too.

@kefirheals7383

2 жыл бұрын

@@FreeRangeRoss Thank you so much. I did end up finding some. Thanks again.

Can I use perforated pipe if I don’t have corrugated???

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

Absolutely. Mr Leon says that works fine The water will be going in the ends of the pipe anyway

I'm not sure that I understand the purpose of the ground cover barrier. Won't the potting soil naturally wick to the roots?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

The barrier keeps the pipes from filling with potting soil. They stay full of water, not soil. The barrier also stops the roots from growing and allows them to "air prune". That really makes the plants thrive. alan homesteadadvisor.com/

is there anywhere you can buy the tubs

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Here's how to get them: kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html And... this is the best time to find some. Ranchers will have lots of empty tubs after the winter feeding

where can u get those buckets at? i cant find them anywhere

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html

Ok, with these ribs how often do we need to water??

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

In TX the plants need to be watered several times a week, depending on how large of a plant is in them. Big plants drink a lot of water

I’m missing something...how does it wick when you have landscape fabric separating the soil from the water?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

The soil contacts the water beside the corrugated pipes. Watch at 3:43 how I push the fabric down to the bottom of the tub. The soil will go down in those "dips" and will wick the water up.

@seekerm7894

3 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX that’s what I thought, but wasn’t sure.

There’s a lot of controversy about using Epson salt in your garden. A lot of people say it makes blossom end rot worse. I haven’t ever tried it so I can’t testify about it myself.

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

Calcium is best for BER. I use this: hosstools.com/product/pelletized-gypsum-soil-conditioner/ Supposed to all but eliminate BER. I'll know later this year. Stay tuned 😎

I'm looking for the landscape fabric. There ate lots on Amazon. How do I know which know which one to get? What is an appropriate price for 100 ft or 300 ft? Thank you

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

I bought mine at a local wholesale nursery A nursery will have the best quality cloth and will last a lot longer Make some calls and see if you can find some Landscape cloth bought on amazon might not last very long. It's hard to tell the quality online

What size is your wicking bucket?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

These are about 18" tall and 20" in diameter.

Is the the corrugated tube solid or perforated?

@BIGALTX

2 ай бұрын

It can be either. It really doesn’t matter. Water is going to find its way into the pipe, no matter what. I think I have used both…

@terryengelmann5344

2 ай бұрын

Thank you

Where did you get your tubs?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

Watch this: kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html

I made the wicking tubs but I am having trouble with the water getting really stinky. Do you think I put the holes too high. There is about 2 inches of airspace above the drainage tile but my holes are up 6-7 inches. The strawberries look great in them otherwise but I worry that things are going to go sour with the smelly water.

@windyloom2267

4 жыл бұрын

Do you have any suggestions. Should I make the holes lower? i have had a lot of rain.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

This is my first year to use the wicking tubs. I have what seems to be algae on the outside of the holes, but don't know if there is a lot of it actually IN the tubs. You might let it go dry for 24 hours to kill any bacteria, etc.... just not sure. You might want to ask Leon at Gardening With Leon on KZread

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

There should only be about 1" of airspace.

I need the buckets ? they use 55 gal 1/2 cut metal drums here !

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

I think metal would get too hot here in TX. Ask some cattle raisers near you. They should have a lot of them right now. Ask someone at your local feed store.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

IF you can't find them, here are some on Amazon. Really not a bad price. amzn.to/3aUPkfE

@sandymoran6771

4 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX so the mineral bucket is 17 gallons?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Sandy Moran I’m not exactly sure, but I would say they are around 30 gallons. About 22” in diameter and about 20” tall.

@sandymoran6771

4 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Thank you for the response

My question is how many years do those tubs last before starting to get brittle and break?

@BIGALTX

Жыл бұрын

Some say 5 to 7 years, but I have a few that are VERY thick and will last much longer Here's where I replaced one: kzread.info/dash/bejne/rGp5k7OKdqTQnLA.html

@user-gw9zz7iw9t

Жыл бұрын

Another question you might ask yourself is are the tubs rated as "safe" to grow your food in. We all have come to know that any plastic bottle will hold water and some frying pan coatings are safe unless damaged or flaking but as time passes that these items give off hazardous chemicals that may cause sickness or death in our future if a sufficient amount is consumed by us. Tires at one time were used in gardening but now we know that plant roots will absorb and put those chemicals into our food . So before you spend a lot of time and money on your tubs some research may be in order. Remember when treated lumber 1st came out and was used in gardening only later to find out we were poisoning ourself and our loved ones? The main purpose for most gardeners is to raise clean, healthy food .,.....

Epsom salts don't prevent BER

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

True, but it DOES give some minerals needed.

How does the water wick up to the garden clothe if it's not touching it? I don't understand.

@shilohharris7333

4 жыл бұрын

The cloth is in the water along the sides of the pipes in the bottom. When he fills it with soil, the soil goes down in those "wells" where the fabric was pushed down the side, and that part of the soil will be in the water up to the 3" level or lower as the water is used.

@clivemossmoon3611

4 жыл бұрын

@@shilohharris7333 Ty for your answer.

Where can I purchase the buckets?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html

Where can you find those tubs?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html Someone near you has some, probably...

How do you tell when to water?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

These are wicking tubs. I just water till it comes out the overflow hole. About every other day. Here's more info: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pJWYqqSanpqTcqw.html

How much water do you put in pipe

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Till it runs out the hole. I would say it's about 3 gallons if it's empty, but you're not supposed to let it get completely empty. It depends on the size of pipe you use and where you put your drain hole. Hope that helps, alan

WHERE do you get the tubs???

@BIGALTX

2 жыл бұрын

Here's how: kzread.info/dash/bejne/haB1sc5yaZi5kbQ.html

How do one knows when to water?

@roxanneharrington9287

4 жыл бұрын

When you see the water start to trickle from the 3" hole he drilled in on the bottom side of the large pot.

What is the name of the orange tree?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

It's a Bumper Satsuma orange. Here's where I got it. bobwellsnursery.com/product/bumper-satsuma-tree-cold-hardy-down-to-20-f-degrees-2-year-old-tree-bob-wells-nursery/

What exactly is the plastic you are covering your pipes with ??? And where can I purchase

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

jim draper It is just a high-quality groundcover. The kind of black plastic that people put down in their flowerbeds to block weeds. It is weed blocker.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

jim draper There is a link to the ground cover I bought beneath the video on Amazon.

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Here it is: amzn.to/3a0qPw0

@shwetzsri

4 жыл бұрын

@@BIGALTX Thank you for the link. I was confused whether I should buy woven or non-woven. There are many products where some reviews that mention that water isn't going through. I was worried about what to buy.

Where do you get your tubs?

@BIGALTX

4 жыл бұрын

Try to find someone who raises cattle Check with a feed store near you. They should know some cattlemen that will have some. This time of year they should be plenteous.

@MrGoatman07

3 жыл бұрын

What is the cost per tub? Thanks

what type of lime?

@BIGALTX

3 жыл бұрын

Agricultural lime. I use this: www.lowes.com/pd/Timberline-Soil-Doctor-Pulverized-Garden-Lime-40-lb-Organic-Lime-PH-Balancer/3058417 Cheap and 1 bag will do 40 tubs! Or... just do a few tubs and put the rest on your yard 😎