Source for 1/8" wire rope clamps for EarthTainer

[tomacco]

I'm trying to build a batch of EarthTainers. For each one I need 15 1/8" wire rope clamps. I went to Lowes and found precisely 15 which then left them cleaned out. Each clamp was packaged individually. I have no idea if this is normal.

I'm wondering if someone has found a better source for these for bulk purchases. I really don't want to have to wait for Lowe's restocking cycle.

Any ideas where I might find a good supply of these?

[rnewste]

tomacco,

What sort of quantity do you need (how many 'Tainers are you building)?

I have been emailed by many people who have difficulty in finding the 5" diameter wicking baskets as well as the wire rope clips. I have some extras I bought and would be happy to get them to you at what I paid for them. Send me a PM as I am not in the Commercial business of selling stuff.

Ray

[tomacco]

Hi Ray,

That's exceedingly kind of you. I'm making 2 'tainers. I'd be grateful if you could tell me where you get your rope clips. Did they come individually or did you find a place to buy them in bulk?

[tomacco]

On the subject of wicking baskets, I found a VERY similar basket (nearly identical size, with a slightly different hole configuration) at a number of local hydroponics stores. I hope this helps people who might be looking for them.

[rnewste]

Originally Posted by tomacco

On the subject of wicking baskets, I found a VERY similar basket (nearly identical size, with a slightly different hole configuration) at a number of local hydroponics stores. I hope this helps people who might be looking for them.

Yes, can you post a link to any of these stores that sell on-line? The sites that I found on eBay and even Amazon will sell you one basket at a time for $1.00 - - but then want to charge you a $10.00 shipping fee. What a rip!!

I have tried all over the San Jose area to find them in Aquatic stores, pet shops, etc. but to no avail.

Ray

[tomacco]

The cheapest is if you can find a local Hydroponics store. I think this is a fairly common item at these places.

http://www.growshop.com/hydroponics-stores/

If not, this place has them, but I'm not sure of the shipping fees.

http://westcoasthydro.net/cart/net-p...ver-p-218.html

[rnewste]

tom,

I went on the West Coast Hydro site, and true to form, shipping for one wicking basket is outrageous. I placed one basket into the Cart and here was their shipping cost options:

Estimate Shipping Costs

Total Items: 1 Weight: 1lbs Amount: $1.49


Available Shipping Methods Rates United Parcel Service (1 x 1.00lbs) (Next Day Air Early AM) $67.37 United Parcel Service (1 x 1.00lbs) (Next Day Air) $36.06 United Parcel Service (1 x 1.00lbs) (Next Day Air Saver) $33.23 United Parcel Service (1 x 1.00lbs) (2nd Day Air) $15.60 United Parcel Service (1 x 1.00lbs) (3 Day Select) $11.41 United Parcel Service (1 x 1.00lbs) (Ground) $9.38


Conclusion: you either have to buy a lot of them to amortize the shipping... or find them at a local shop.

Ray

[Containermaterman]

Hey everybody,

First, what a great site, with a bunch of good folks, and good info. I've been lurking/learning for a while now and this thread jumped out at me because I am building Ray's earthtainers as well.

tomacco, try this link, it will take you to the exact page for the rope clips. They are .37 each so even with shipping you still come out ahead vs. going the lowes route. My local lowes wanted a little over $1 a piece and packaged individually. The local tractor supply wanted .79 each.

https://www.hardwareworld.com/18-inc...s-pYB7L08.aspx

If the link doesn't work, it's hardwareworld.com and just type rope clips in the search box. I ordered 45 and the total was a little over $20 shipped. They have a neat little feature that lets you check the exact amount they have in stock at the time you order. Communication and shipping was great so I highly recommend. Hope this helps.

I have grown tomatoes in containers for some time now but always determinate varieties. That's why I was very interested in, and will be building at least two of Ray's earthtainers. I will be growing all heirloom/indeterminates this year and I am really looking forward to having a crop right up to frost.

One last thing, when I first registered I was having difficulty logging in from my home pc. I e-mailed Mischka and he responded quickly and was very helpful, thanks again and all the great info is greatly appreciated.

[rnewste]

Here is an on-line source that sells them even cheaper ($0.12 each). Shipping will add to that as they are relatively heavy - - but still MUCH cheaper than Lowes, etc. You only need the Malleable ones - - not drop forged.

http://www.pambinaimpex.com/servlet/...1%2F8%22+clips

Ray

[veggie babe]

Welcome to t'ville this is a great forum. I joined in dec 08 and have learned so much, it's like having you very own garden library.
Neva

[Containermaterman]

Ray,

Thanks for the source. I gave up searching when I found them at .37 with no minimum order. I did find them at around .22 but there was a $50 minimum order. Thanks again.