How To Create A Vertical PVC Garden

How To Create A Vertical PVC Garden FARM HOME Miscellaneous A vertical garden is a smart idea if you’re short on space but looking to maximize your access to fresh-grown produce One strategy is to build a growing setup out of PVC pipe You can follow this general design plan and modify it as needed for your space needs To start you’ll need PVC pipe that’s at least 4 in wide larger allows for bigger plants and growing in multiple directions A large planter potting soil and pea gravel are also necessary as well as a power drill with a 1 1/4-in spade drill bit Begin by cutting your PVC down to your preferred planting height accounting for the fact that the bottom will be buried in the pot Around 5 ft tall usually works best for easy maintenance Note that the longer you leave the pipe the more challenging watering will be without a built-in irrigation system Next drill holes in the side for planting Make the holes large enough for easier transplanting without being so large that soil or young plants falls out of the opening Then place the pipe within the pot filling the base with pea gravel to anchor it Start adding the rest of the gravel into the top of the pipe stopping when you reach a hole to add in about 6 in of potting soil This ensures the plants have plenty of growing space and good drainage Add some soil to the top of the pot as the last step to hide the pea gravel and add some extra planting space Choose small hardy plants with well-developed root structures Seeds don’t tend to work well as they can get washed out or dislodged from a hole Some of the best plant varieties for a vertical garden include succulents lettuce spinach green onions and chives Hardy perennials like strawberries and most herbs work especially well because their longer lifespan allows the roots time to fully spread through the pipes Weeds rarely get established but you can pull any out that emerges from the planting holes Just take care not to dislodge any soil or pull out any established plants Most can handle being left in wintry weather though you’ll prolong the lifespan of the plastic if you take it down Expect to refresh the potting soil every growing season or so to ensure things stay fresh

To read the rest of this story, download this issue below or click here to register with your account number.