I have a bunch of 5.6 gallon containers that I am going to use this summer for tomatoes, peppers and eggplant. I was hoping that some of you experienced in these matters could shed some light about soil composition for these containers. As of right now, I am planning on combining spanghum peat moss with store bought bags of humus/manure mix (Hyponex, Earthgro, Bovung, etc..). Does that sound like a plausible idea? Any suggestions are welcome, although please understand that I am not driving a pickup truck to collect manure anytime soon, so I am resolute on getting bagged manure in spite of how some gardeners may frown upon that practice.
Second, I keep reading where one should place rocks at the bottom of the container, and my question is this: Just how big should the rocks be? Are we talking small pebbles, larger paving stones or big ass rocks that could break a car windshield?
Based on my research, I would say it sounds feasible to plant two determinate variety (e.g. Celebrity) or cherry/grape type tomatoes (e.g. Juliet) per 5.6 gallon container, whereas the larger indeterminate varieties may command just one plant per container. Has anyone had success planting varieties like Big Boy, Better Boy and Big Beef with more than one plant in a container? If so, I'd be interested to hear that and any pointers you could share.
As for eggplant, I would say two to a 5.6 gallon container, and I could easily fit three to four pepper plants in such a planter. The planters I have are 13 3/4 inches in diameter and 10 inches in height, FYI.
Thanks in advance for any pointers you can give and I look forward to your responses.
-- joiseyfresh
Soil for a veggie container
Why the rocks? Some research has shown that they actually impede drainage. If you just want bulk to help fill the bottom of the containers, a bagged mulch is much preferable.
I'd stay away from Hyponex. Most of the content is inert. It's like ashes. If you have any, notice how filthy you hands get when you handle it.
If your purchased manure has been composted, it won't burn like the "raw" stuff will. Forget the advice from people who want everything to be "pure." I bet they don't drink raw milk.
I'd leave out the rocks...if you read tapla's sticky threads in this forum you'll see why they're actually a bad idea. If you read his threads you'll also see some good thoughts on container soil--I worry about the humus/manure mix, I think it's going to decompose too quickly and collapse and leave no space for air in your soil. I'd either make your own potting mix using one of the recipes in those sticky threads, or else buy a commercial container mix.
I agree. I try to stay as far away from any ingredients in container soils that cause compaction or impede drainage initially, or that break down so quickly that they impede drainage and reduce aeration before the end of the intended life of the planting. High on that list are compost, sand, manure, any garden soils (including any form of loam), hardwood bark, and any sapwood product.
FWIW - At least around here, bagged manure has an analysis of .05-.05-.05 (note the decimal point), and is nothing more than black sand.
Al
Thanks to everyone responding to my query. I have read Tapla's thorough and thoughtful explanation on soil preparation, although it seemed to me to be geared more toward flowers, trees and shrubs than vegetable plants. Will his soil recipe work well for veggie containers, or are there specific amendments I need to make to tailor it for tomatoes, peppers and eggplants?
I read an article by the Iowa State Extension and it mentioned shredded peat moss and vermiculite as the main ingredients. I guess there's more than one way to skin a cat or prepare a soil.
One other question regards the planting depth of the veggies in containers. In past outdoor gardens, I have always "planted them deep." I would imagine I will not able do the same in my 10 inch high, 5.6 gallon containers. Any suggestions are welcome.
-- joiseyfresh
joisey - i would seriously reconsider how many plants you put into each container. i have been growing vegetable plants in 5 gallon containers (the kind you buy at home depot) for many years and my experience is that you can only put one plant into each container.
I will agree with herbie.... these are 18 gallon tubs that I put two tomatoes & three cucumbers... only going to put two cucs next year.... two are doing great... one not so much
