How To

Build A  Sub-Irrigated Planter

supplies

Tough Totes Potting Mix PVC Pipe Drain Pipe Plastic Sheeting Perlite Garden Lime Fertilizer Tape

Container Assembly

Cut PVC pipe and perforated drain pipe to fit the container. 

Container Assembly

Drill a 1/2" hole in the outside of the container that aligns with the  drain pipe inside.

Filling the container

Mix the potting mix with perlite and pack tightly in an elevated hill between drain pipes.   Saturate thoroughly with water.

FILLING THE CONTAINER

Fill the container half full and more mixed perlite and potting mix.  

FILLING THE CONTAINER

Water the mixture so it is wet but not fully saturated and then continue filling with mixed potting mix, perlite and lime.  

FILLING THE CONTAINER

When filled 3/4 full make a trench around the perimeter of the container and fill it with granular  10-10-10 fertilizer.

FILLING THE CONTAINER

The trench with fertilizer should be on the perimeter so that your seedlings' roots are not burned.

FILLING THE CONTAINER

Freely top off the container with loose growing medium. The mounded soil will settle over the next few days.  

Finishing the Container

Cover the container tightly with plastic sheeting and secure with strong tape.

Planting

It's time to plant!   We typically squeeze 2-4 tomatoes or peppers into each container but it depends on the size.  

PLANTING

Cut slits into the plastic sheeting and plant the seedlings.   The slits should be big enough to allow planting but not too large to cause  evaporation.  

Watering

After planting move your container to where it will live and use the PVC pipe to fill with water.   When water spills from the drilled drainage hole it is full.   

Enjoy!

Water as needed during the season and enjoy epic harvests!