Hey everyone! I just started my first vegetable garden by transplanting some veggies into 5-gallon buckets. I made sure to drill holes in the bottom and a few on the sides for drainage. I chose a Miracle-Gro potting mix based on some quick research. While I've cared for carnivorous plants before, this is my first time trying to grow vegetables. I don't have stands for the buckets yet, nor a good watering system, but I'm planning to pick up some supplies at Lowe's today to make things easier. I'd love to hear any tips or advice you can share, especially since I'm still figuring it all out! So far, I've planted a bell pepper, a tomato, and a Japanese cucumber. I've got broccoli and kale waiting to be transplanted as well. Thanks in advance for your help!
2 Answers
Make sure to check what your buckets are made of! If they’re labeled with recycling #3 (PVC), that's not great because they can leach harmful substances into the soil. Fortunately, it sounds like your buckets are #2, which is safer. Also, a lot of people switch to fabric grow bags after trying buckets for a while—just a thought!
For watering, consider getting a drip irrigation system or a simple watering can to keep it consistent. And definitely think about getting stands! Elevated buckets can help with drainage and make it easier to check on your plants. Oh, and don't forget to periodically check if they need more nutrition as they grow.
Glad you checked! I had a little scare too; I was using some laundry baskets to grow in and didn't realize they were #4. But it worked out, whew!