Cheap aeration bench ideas

[elight]

In addition to my three EarthTainers, I am trying to build two SWCs using some 12" square plastic planter boxes that were given to me. These are going to be for lettuce and herbs, do they don't need the depth of soil that the ETs have. I'm also trying to save a few bucks in building them.

I want to essentially use the EarthBox design (a single box with an aeration bench, instead of a container-inside-a-container), which is simple enough. But I'm at a loss for what to use for the aeration bench. Some sort of durable plastic that will stand up to the weight of potting mix, but which I can cut to size and drill holes in. And something that can be procured cheap or free.

Any ideas?

[hoefarmer]

I use used glad containers like Hillshire sandwich meat comes in and drill holes in it. Probably not perfect but it works for me and is cheap.

[elight]

I'm trying to find a single piece that will make up the entire bench (like how an EarthBox works). I was thinking plastic pegboard, but it is very expensive. Now I'm thinking that if I can find a discarded/broken plastic tote, I can probably cut the pieces (about 12x12") from the sides. Just need to find one.

[Barb_FL]

I used the lid and drilled holes in it, plus 2 places for net pots. Down side, it took me ALL DAY and I vowed never to do it again (and I didn't). To hold it up, I used a strong piece of Styrofoam with the guts cut out.

My friend's husband makes them for her; he used the lid, and then places a bunch of pots upside down to hold the lid in place. He was able to make them quickly.

Another thing I've tried is to use to top part (holes and net cup cut out) and then place in a pan. I've tried this for a few times now; I've held up the container different ways - bricks a couple of times, and Styrofoam the last couple of times. The problem I have with this, is the plant does really well for awhile, then the roots go into the bottom including taking over the net cups which affects the wicking (I think) When I realized what was going on, it ended up just watering from the top.

I'm sticking to Earth Boxes for the fall season.

[elight]

Thanks for the idea, Barb. Unfortunately, these are planter boxes, not totes, so they don't come with lids.

They look like this:


Since I'm also building a new EarthTainer, which required buying two totes with lids, I'm thinking about just using the inside of one of those lids for this purpose. I know that it's recommended to use one on the inside of the EarthTainer and one as a platform underneath, but I've long since lost the underneath ones for the other two.

The styrofoam is a good idea. I was trying to think of something for that purpose that is sturdy and won't break down in water.

[Barb_FL]

So are you going to drill holes in them for water overflow?

Another thought - what about a upside down colander - Round shape in square box, but the wicking could be done from the edges. Your overflow holes would need a straw/something (I used 1/2" PVC) to get to the center (hole in colander to accommodate). You can pick these colanders up a Dollar tree for $1.

Speaking of Dollar Tree, maybe they have a square food container ($1) that would fit and that could be your bench.

[elight]

Correct, I'll drill a hole in the side for overflow.

I like the idea of an upside-down disposable Tupperware. I'm pretty sure they make square ones. I worry about root infiltration into the reservoir, so I'd have to hot-glue it down or something. We'll see what I can find!

[rwsacto]

EL,

I use corplast, corrugated plastic like what is used for political lawn signs. In fact, my supply was acquired for free on the Wednesday following the first Tuesday in November of even numbered years...Mostly from losers...There should be a bumper crop in about 15 months...

Anyway, I have sub irrigated planters just like you show there. You can either build legs from pieces of PVC pipe and attach with plastic ties or make a table like stand by folding the ends into legs. I drill lots of holes and use a cheap climbers rope for the wicks. I also do window boxes this way. Water with drip irrigation into the weep hole if you like.

Hope this helps,

Rick

[elight]

Rick, that's a great idea! And I just so happen to have access to a bunch of those signs that will soon be tossed out. I think the idea's a winner.

I like the pvc pipe idea too... Like 2" pipe cut to length and stood up straight. My workplace is currently under construction so maybe I can scavenge some pieces.

Thanks for all the great ideas!

[Barb_FL]

That is a fabulous idea. Thanks for sharing it.

[elight]

Well, project complete. Here are some photos of the container with the aeration bench made from corrugated plastic lawn sign. I had a big stack of 2" net pots leftover from a prior project, so I used them as the supports to hold up the bench. (I actually obtained a scrap piece of 3" PVC electrical conduit, but it seems like it's not the safest around water that will be feeding something that I will be eating.)

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When I'm ready to plant in 3-4 weeks, I'll use the EarthTainer system - mound 3-2-1 mix in the net pot, then cover with a double-layer of landscape fabric, and then fill.

I have never grown anything in SWCs except for tomatoes. For lettuce and herbs, should I do a fertilizer strip the same way?

[luigiwu]

I don't see it but I assume you have an overfill hole?
You can also use an inverted colander.
This guy call's his take a on the SIP a "bubble SIP."
LOVE SIPs!
https://www.flickr.com/photos/greens...7646460535762/

[elight]

Yes, I will drill the drainage holes before I plant.

I really want to put a layer of landscape fabric to keep roots out of the reservoir as much as possible, and that seems difficult if using a colander as opposed to a bench.

I thought that I was making the most economical SIP/SWC, but it appears that guy has beat me!

[schill93]

Originally Posted by elight

Yes, I will drill the drainage holes before I plant.

I really want to put a layer of landscape fabric to keep roots out of the reservoir as much as possible, and that seems difficult if using a colander as opposed to a bench.

I thought that I was making the most economical SIP/SWC, but it appears that guy has beat me!

I think you did an excellent job. !!!

[rwsacto]

Originally Posted by elight

Yes, I will drill the drainage holes before I plant.

I really want to put a layer of landscape fabric to keep roots out of the reservoir as much as possible, and that seems difficult if using a colander as opposed to a bench.

I thought that I was making the most economical SIP/SWC, but it appears that guy has beat me!

Looks good to me. I think the bench SIP will aerate better and is more durable than the upside down bowl method.

Rick