🌽Building (Gardening With Leon's) Wicking Tubs 💦 DIY 🌱 Detailed Instructions 👀

[@A_Yankee_In_East_Texas]

Those are nice! I have some 55 gallon drums I cut in half for my blackberries. I might just try this. Where did you get your potting soil from? Thank you for all the content you put out. We are on a slow but sure process of clearing and planting our space, and folks like you add clarity and direction to our efforts with your videos.

[@BIGALTX]

Thanks for the kind words. Potting mix came from a Hughes Nursery near Bullard. All the best, alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@cherriemckinstry131]

I loved using up those milk cartons in my planters instead of having to buy a plastic platform.

[@BIGALTX]

It's a lot cheaper for sure. I think the cartons will last for several years. I used to have a bunch of them, but I chunked them a few years ago :(

[@jenniferw8963]

Thanks for this video! Just wondering why you are using the drainage pipes instead of milk jugs? With the milk jugs and coke bottles you don't have to buy a thing right? I imagine the landscape fabric and drainage pipes cost a bit?

[@BIGALTX]

I just don't have any milk jugs. I used to save them but threw them away a few years ago :(

[@markoxendine9748]

Epsom salt ( magnesium sulfate) doesn't prevent end rot !!!!! End rot is a calcium deficiency, use dolomite lime or gypsum for calcium

[@BIGALTX]

True, but I think it’s still an important trace element for the plants to have.

[@markoxendine9748]

@TexasPrepper2 of course it is & it has its role in the garden but preventing blossom end rot is not one of them

[@ArmsFamilyHomestead]

I really think you will like the tubs! Leon is a great guy and he sure knows his gardening!

[@BIGALTX]

Leon's Da Man :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@windyloom2267]

I called Leon and he said to lower the drainage holes. i had to dump out the water, rinse with plain water and drain and then refill it. I had the holes too high and a big water storage. They should only be 3-4 inches from the bottom.

[@windyloom2267]

He is awesome

[@thedbcooperforum]

I have a box in testing now and appears to just saturate the soil and having to refill every couple days...

[@HeritageCottageUrbanNanoFarm]

Epsom salts don't prevent BER

[@BIGALTX]

True, but it DOES give some minerals needed.

[@henryrodgers3409]

Looking good . I saw Leon making those tubes . He has a lot of great ideas . You can move those tubes where ever you want to . Good for growing thing like mint because mint will take over your garden . Roots are like runners and they go every where . Daniel at the Armes Family even made some tubes just using water . He didn't do so well with those because of the heat . Be interesting to see how you set up your automatic watering system .

[@BIGALTX]

I'm looking forward to growing this spring. Keep watching :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@connie_vu]

Thank you for the details in building it, you nailed it sir. I've watched Leon and another you tuber ref. Leon's, but both left me wonder where I should drill the drainage hole and where I should place my water tube.

[@BIGALTX]

Glad I could help! I try to explain as best I can, but some folks say I talk too much 😎

[@cherriemckinstry131]

I think it works better if no soil goes all the way to the bottom. I used a vlay silt mix up to below the milk carton lids. Then i added three inches of potting soil, then two inch layer of composted soil with some bark bits. So far, my okra looks happy and so do the tomatoes. Then im growing beans in a bin with just holes 2in up the sides. They are happy too.

[@Anna-cm7yu]

@@BIGALTX Please ignore the folks who complain about you talking too much. Your explanation helps the beginner gardener. They can “up the playback speed” if they have issues.

[@BIGALTX]

hahaha.... thanks! 👍

[@FreeRangeRoss]

Thank you for the video. I've seen several of these types and others before, and have made them in the past. Is there a major advantage to using the ground cover/liner over simply covering the corrugated pipe with vermiculite/moss and or sand - for wicking (besides the pipes getting soil in them)? I had made mine with the pipe covered by soil, but had the pipes' ends enclosed in fabric with an overflow tube tucked inside the pipe at ~ 3". Also, do you cover the pvc pipe fill tube top to keep bugs and whatnot out in between waterings? I kept getting spiders and bugs in mine... Thank you again for your efforts, these videos are very much appreciated.

[@BIGALTX]

You can't let the soil mix get into the pipes. Either using a "socked pipe" like I show here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJLHeXWXo5xgeKs Or using landscape cloth to cover the ends is ok. I don't cover the fill tubes, but I DO use this for mosquitos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTYXmZnZ62BoJI

[@BestIsntEasy]

@@BIGALTX 💗🤝💗 2nd video of yours I've touched. Appreciate your sweet spirit and way of teaching.

[@BIGALTX]

Thanks so much! :)

[@smhollanshead]

To save garden clothe, consider capping the ends of the drain pipes with garden clothe and zip ties. Then for the base layer, use vermiculite and peat moss for the wicking mix. Place the drain tube inside one of your drain pipes. Lastly, add potting mix for the plants on top of the peat moss vermiculite mix. No need for the fill tube. Just water the plant until water comes put of the drain tube.

[@jimdraper6193]

smhollanshead thanks 😊 a million

[@lvl0rg4n]

I just came into the comments to see if anyone had capped their pipes! Thanks for posting. What do you mean by "place the drain tube inside one of your drain pipes"? Do you mean make sure the drainage hole is lined up with the drain pipe or something else?

[@gilabola4642]

thats a great idea. Looks like this channel's owner has used your suggestion and create a video about it - kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJLHeXWXo5xgeKs

[@joegallehgos1301]

smhollanshead Drain tube drain pipe?

[@WendysWorldTX]

I'm looking for the landscape fabric. There ate lots on Amazon. How do I know which know which one to get? What is an appropriate price for 100 ft or 300 ft? Thank you

[@BIGALTX]

I bought mine at a local wholesale nursery A nursery will have the best quality cloth and will last a lot longer Make some calls and see if you can find some Landscape cloth bought on amazon might not last very long. It's hard to tell the quality online

[@eddiecoates4045]

Well I thought that I would add my two cents that may save you more than two cents. The drain holes are about the size of a regular pencil not an elementary pencil size. Ok next I know where the top hole is for the bucket drainage for air space. Plus everyone knows that have done this method knows you have to water till your plants reach the moist soil that is wet. If not your plant will die unless you get lucky and get a few perfect rains. Now my two cents. If you listen to Leon he talked about to much water from heavy rains that will water log the roots and your plant will mot survive. Here is the solution if you can’t take them inside to avoid flooding of the container. First I put four or five pencil size holes an inch above the bottom of the bucket. On all these holes I place a square of electrical tape over them but make sure the bucket is dry. If you already have flooded buckets just drill these holes and empty the water logged soil. There will be plenty of moisture left. I went ahead and put a hole half way up as well to facilitate getting rid of the water logged bucket. Remember to put tape over the holes when your finished. But leave your original holes open. I see some people putting to pvc white pipes down them. Just make sure that you cut them at a 45 degree angle towards the bottom outside from around 2 up from the bottom. Them cover with ground cloth the black cheap stuff. Then wrap then around the cloth but leave hole with no tape on if. I also help the air space in the bottom soil with styrofoam peanuts to take up space. I turn the pvc pipe to the side away from the soil and there is usually a few peanuts in from where the soil can retard the inflow of water going to the bottles with holes. Just one more thing put the oven pipe opposite your bucket handle. The only real problem is plant diseases and plant bugs snd other pests. Stop this early and try to keep your cucumber, zucchini, and other vine plants leafs from getting wet except by rain. These buckets are great. I tried the tubs but Leon forgot to mention it to us a opaq one or clear one and that was just terrible. Plus if you live in Florida or a hot area like 80+ the hole day and then 90’s & 100’s you knee shade half the day. The opposite side of the house or shed or some kind of netting or old plywood but paint it to keep from warping. Good luck! Oh you don’t need to totally fill it when you start because your soil will float up and over the sides. Water the top and put in a little at a time.

[@BIGALTX]

Great tips, thanks! I have had some VERY heavy rains since I've been using the Wicking Tubs, but have never had a problem with plants being over watered.

[@jeanettehaygood4154]

I appreciate knowing about the soil volume/gallons! That helps a lot right there. My question is what is purpose of the lime? Love Leon’s videos but I learned some new understanding after watching your video.

[@BIGALTX]

Lime is for PH. The PH needs to be around 7 and lime will get you there.

[@jeanettehaygood4154]

TexasPrepper2 thank you!

[@randyman8984]

I just got my first 5 gallon wicking tub set up but I think I went too high with the drain hole. I've got mine at 5 inches to the drain hole and the water bottles inside have holes at 6 inches at the top of water bottles. Will I be ok? Or do I need to drop my drain hole??

[@BIGALTX]

The hole needs to be 1 inch below the top of the baffle (in your case the bottles) ... so I think you did it right.

[@royhoco5748]

how much life do you get out of those tubs in the hot Texas summer sun? what ph level are you trying to achieve in the potting soil by adding lime?

[@BIGALTX]

This will be my first time to use them, so I don't know how long they will last. But, Leon says 5+ years. The orange ones are a lot thicker than the blue ones, so they should last longer. alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@przybyla420]

You could wrap it with cardboard for the summer or burlap or something to block the UV. Or a big piece of bark off a log if there are big trees in your neck of the woods.

[@royhoco5748]

@@przybyla420 good ideas and now I am thinking black 6 mil plastic which I use to wrap tote water tanks to keep algae from growing.

[@gattamom]

Would geotextile be easier to work with than landscape fabric?

[@BIGALTX]

Possibly, but I really don’t know. I have never worked with it.

[@tammydepew5236]

I have some of that black pipe laying around still from my dads stash when he was alive and running his business, but it’s solid and doesn’t have the drainage slits in it can that be used or do I need to get the kind with slits in it! I wish I had access to those tubs our cattle farmer friends told me our feed store doesn’t sell that type of product in the bucket anymore so they no longer have them.

[@BIGALTX]

They do NOT have to be perforated. I don't know where you live, but EVERYBODY uses these tubs for their cows ... still do... I think you should be able to find some.

[@mortsolomon4603]

Wish you would’ve said this is for fruit not vegetables in the beginning so I didn’t waste seven minutes of my time thank you

[@BIGALTX]

You didn't waste your time. It's for fruit too. I have had figs, pear, persimmon, and orange trees in these containers. Here's the links... and the results: Trees: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYOrY36rmteqjLM Blackberries: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3imk4J5icR8d6M

[@ze-xi8rf]

Love "Gardening with Leon". Thanks for the video.

[@BIGALTX]

Leon's Da Man :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@michaelripperger5674]

I’m in N Texas - what type of orange tree did you find that works ?

[@BIGALTX]

I had a satsuma orange tree for several years. It finally died. I’m not sure there is any orange tree that would work in north Texas, but do your own research. I think there is something called an “arctic” Satsuma that you might want to look at.

[@ruthgreen7424]

I watched your vidio but still can not understand must be dumb of how the water gets up to the roots if you've encased the plant it in plastic as your vidio

[@BIGALTX]

The sides are where the fabric goes all the way to the bottom of the tub and will be standing in water. The water will wick up from there. Watch again at 4:15 to see me push the fabric down to the bottom of the sides.

[@ruthgreen7424]

thank you for your help its what we call sarlon in australia and it comes in different grades cheers ruth @@BIGALTX

[@stickermigtigger]

@@BIGALTX Duh....I still don't get it. Does the plastic sheet allow water to pass through it?? All I see is a barrier between the water and the dirt. The tub drain hole is way below the top of the plastic sheet barrier so it looks like there's no way for water to ever get high enough to go over it. I understand wicking like in a rope or twine or a candle but I just don't see any wicking going on here. 🙂

[@BIGALTX]

@@stickermigtigger About 20% of the potting mix IS in contact with the bottom of the tub. Therefore, it is IN the water. That's where the "wicking" action takes place.

[@bananasEveryday]

I got an Earth Box for Christmas because of the video you made. I've known about wicking boxes for years now but never tried them.

[@BIGALTX]

I'm excited to use mine in a few months. Should be fun :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@Larry-q9d]

My only concern would be contamination from the plastic sock covered tubes. 5gallon buckets can be bought in food grade but the drain lines could be a hazardous material that contaminate the plants and hence the fruit

[@HS37090]

I enjoyed your video. Wish you would do one for tomato’s. Also, how do you tell when it’s time to water? Thanks again

[@BIGALTX]

Will do soon

[@free2beejessica]

What landscape fabric do you use

[@BIGALTX]

I get mine from a nursery near me. It's a commercial landscape cover. The kind they lay on the floors of their greenhouses. It lasts a long time. Try to buy the best one you can.

[@ronaldphillips8750]

Do you think you could use 2 rows of 4 inch pipe and have the drain hole at 7 inches? I was hoping this would extend then time needing water.

[@BIGALTX]

Not sure I think it might be worth a try But remember, you're limiting the soil volume so you might not get as big of a root ball on your plants

[@ronaldphillips8750]

@@BIGALTX Thanks for your rsponse.

[@etxhooligan5026]

I can’t find the video where you are addressing the mosquito problem but , I have followed your directions on making the tubs and will put a piece of the fabric that covers the pipe on the hybrid tubs over the 1/2” weep hole pipe that runs out the side of mine to prevent entrance. Will also just put a removable cap on the fill tube up top. Thought I would give you a suggestion ! Thanks for your videos !

[@BIGALTX]

What I do for mosquitos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTYXmZnZ62BoJI

[@olderolderman4603]

Two gallon drinking water bottle works better.

[@BIGALTX]

Sure. There are many ways to make these tubs :)

[@Larry-q9d]

I suppose large drinking water pipe with holes drilled into it could replace the non rated drain pipe. The filter sock I don't know. 7:59

[@BIGALTX]

You have to keep the potting soil out of the pipes. That's why they need socks, or landscape cloth

[@Larry-q9d]

@@BIGALTX yes. Thank you

[@alboggs7561]

How long you cut the tube in the bottom the long and short

[@BIGALTX]

I really don't remember. Also the tubs can be different sizes, so the pipes for the blue tubs were a little different than the red and orange tubs.

[@KM-xr5gg]

How do you water after planting?

[@BIGALTX]

Through the "fill tube". I show it at 7:45

[@kckola4553]

I am so excited to have found your channel and subscribed! I'm a newbie (60 years young) starting a backyard nursery for blackberries and possibly Chicago Hardy Figs. This tub is the ticket! Thank you and God Bless! - Kurt

[@BIGALTX]

Welcome!! You’re still a young man. I’ve got more than a decade on you! 😎

[@kckola4553]

@@BIGALTX - Do you know how much Leon sells his wicking tubs for? I was thinking I might do the same up here in WI

[@BIGALTX]

@@kckola4553 I don't know, but the shipping would be awful. Try to find someone in your area that raises cattle. They should have some tubs. Here are some vids on that subject: Wicking Tubs: Here's how to get them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M Here's how to make them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5jYf6KNhZ2SotU Here's my "Hybrid" tub: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJLHeXWXo5xgeKs

[@kckola4553]

@@BIGALTX No- no, I'm sorry. I'm making a bunch of wicking pots and I'm going to SELL them myself, so I was curious as to the price tag Leon was putting on them. Sorry for the confusion

[@BIGALTX]

@@kckola4553 Several years ago I think I heard him sat $23of $25 but with the price of potting mix going up, it should be a lot more. The only problem is, once you get into the mid to high $30's you are competing with the Earthbox (which I really like... i've got 22 of them) And EB's will last a lot longer than these tubs Good luck to you

[@tammiedyer3225]

I couldn’t find the landscape material. So I used sand bags from true value. I used 2 sandbags in each tub. Hope it works. Don’t know the lifespan of the bags but more sturdy than the cheap landscape material.

[@BIGALTX]

Just need to make sure the potting mix doesn't get in the pipes and clog them up. Here's my Hybrid tub: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJLHeXWXo5xgeKs

[@kellenjames4534]

My question is how many years do those tubs last before starting to get brittle and break?

[@BIGALTX]

Some say 5 to 7 years, but I have a few that are VERY thick and will last much longer Here's where I replaced one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sGeoYoSHe6adoq8

[@Larry-q9d]

Another question you might ask yourself is are the tubs rated as "safe" to grow your food in. We all have come to know that any plastic bottle will hold water and some frying pan coatings are safe unless damaged or flaking but as time passes that these items give off hazardous chemicals that may cause sickness or death in our future if a sufficient amount is consumed by us. Tires at one time were used in gardening but now we know that plant roots will absorb and put those chemicals into our food . So before you spend a lot of time and money on your tubs some research may be in order. Remember when treated lumber 1st came out and was used in gardening only later to find out we were poisoning ourself and our loved ones? The main purpose for most gardeners is to raise clean, healthy food .,.....

[@jimm874]

I ran across your channel researching Blackberries. I found Leon's wicking tubs a few years ago but what I do has been working great for 20+ yrs so I don't see a need to change. What I do is use 5gal buckets for tomatoes and peppers. I just drill a few1/4 in. drain holes about 1in from the bottom and fill with potting mix. Heck, some still have the original potting mix in them ofcoarse I do have to add some each year. My thought originally was to hold an inch of water in the bottom to wick when it gets dry and drain any water above that level. I do water with automatic watering system from the top giving them a quart of water every 12 hours. I also have a Satsuma tree in a 18 gal tud designed the same way and it's doing great too. I'm no way bashing the wicking tubs but just throwing this out there for the folks that can't afford the expense of making a true wicking tub. A five gal bucket is only 3 or 4 dollars and works great for tomatoes and peppers. However I will be making wicking tubs when I put in my thornless berry patch next spring.

[@BIGALTX]

I'm glad to hear about your experience in growing in 5 gallon buckets. Lots of folks say they can't find any of these tubs. Thanks for sharing!

[@Mrs.T.Rusch25]

WHERE do you get the tubs???

[@BIGALTX]

Here's how: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M

[@skywobleross5203]

Ok, with these ribs how often do we need to water??

[@BIGALTX]

In TX the plants need to be watered several times a week, depending on how large of a plant is in them. Big plants drink a lot of water

[@cindyjohnson5242]

Alan, did you say how long to cut the 4" pipe? Or how do I determine the lengths?

[@BIGALTX]

All the tubs are different sizes, so it's hard to give exact lengths I have 3 different styles and all 3 are different You'll just have to do trial and error Lots of folks are doing a "spiral" with a longer piece of pipe (like a cinnamon roll) instead of cutting 3 lengths of pipe

[@BIGALTX]

Watch at about 7 minutes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXO3ZoBjqsqSedk

[@cindyjohnson5242]

@TexasPrepper2 thank you very much!

[@vikkisoderquist6013]

I've never heard of wicking tubs, do they prevent over watering? I'm learning here and have just subbed and clicked for notification. I too in Texas. Tfs!

[@BIGALTX]

Prevent overwatering? Yes... any excess water drains from the "weep hole" on the side of the tub. Unless the hole gets plugged, I don't see any way they would be overwatered. You have to use potting mix and not regular soil for the wicking to take place.

[@mommait7996]

Can you list what to look for when purchasing the ground cover material? I had bought some from Lowes, but it's not the same as what you are using. I'm not sure how long it will last or if it matters. I do have an endless supply of tubs, haha! We have cattle and have many tubs sitting around!

[@BIGALTX]

Yes I can I'd go to my local nursery and try to buy the same cloth they lay on the floor of their greenhouses, walkways, etc THAT will be the good stuff.

[@mikeash7428]

Good tips. Thanks

[@BIGALTX]

You bet!

[@bobhelwig3947]

is there anywhere you can buy the tubs

[@BIGALTX]

Here's how to get them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M And... this is the best time to find some. Ranchers will have lots of empty tubs after the winter feeding

[@randyman8984]

Did you have a lot of success using the wicking tubs?. Do you have a review/update video??.

[@BIGALTX]

I have a lot of videos on Wicking Tubs! I use them for Blackberries and for vegetables: Here's the search: kzbin.infosearch?query=wicking%20tubs

[@charlenequinilty7252]

Can you use long coil of drain pipe instead of short pieces?

[@BIGALTX]

Yes. Watch this demo I did at a workshop at about 5:48 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXO3ZoBjqsqSedk

[@charlenequinilty7252]

@@BIGALTX thank you enjoyed the video

[@bkershaccount]

what type of lime?

[@BIGALTX]

Agricultural lime. I use this: www.lowes.com/pd/Timberline-Soil-Doctor-Pulverized-Garden-Lime-40-lb-Organic-Lime-PH-Balancer/3058417 Cheap and 1 bag will do 40 tubs! Or... just do a few tubs and put the rest on your yard 😎

[@terryengelmann5344]

Is the the corrugated tube solid or perforated?

[@BIGALTX]

It can be either. It really doesn’t matter. Water is going to find its way into the pipe, no matter what. I think I have used both…

[@terryengelmann5344]

Thank you

[@wendellbufford7299]

When watering do use straight water Or do use Hydroponic fertilizer mix in the water

[@BIGALTX]

Mostly just straight water. About once a month (depending on what i'm growing) I hook up the Fertilizer Injector and add fertilizer. Here it is... The link is below the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpjVm5-klJmWrac

[@mezmur6614]

HI I just learned something new today. I am not understanding the science behind it yet, I have to do more research. I am very new to gardening and I just subscribed to your channel. Eager to learn more. I watched your blackberry Prime Ark freedom videos. I am about to plant them. I just bought them and will be planting them soon. I live in zone 9 i hope it is ok to do so now. Looking forward to learn more from everyone!! thank you

[@BIGALTX]

If it's beginning to cool off where you are you could do it now. I usually wait till Nov/Dec... but we're pretty close.

[@TheRedneckprepper]

I need the buckets ? they use 55 gal 1/2 cut metal drums here !

[@BIGALTX]

I think metal would get too hot here in TX. Ask some cattle raisers near you. They should have a lot of them right now. Ask someone at your local feed store.

[@BIGALTX]

IF you can't find them, here are some on Amazon. Really not a bad price. amzn.to/3aUPkfE

[@sandymoran6771]

@@BIGALTX so the mineral bucket is 17 gallons?

[@BIGALTX]

Sandy Moran I’m not exactly sure, but I would say they are around 30 gallons. About 22” in diameter and about 20” tall.

[@sandymoran6771]

@@BIGALTX Thank you for the response

[@ubeydbey]

I watched Leon's videos too. I dont understand one thing in your guide: You are not allowing the soil to touch the water from the sides. How can the soil wick up the water if it is not touching it? Thanks

[@BIGALTX]

Sure... notice I push down the black cloth down to the bottom of the tub That's where it wicks the water. Doesn't take much surface area.

[@jimcrandall9188]

Would the bm7 work for earth box vegetables as well? I have a hand headed to nursery at Bullard now. What fertilizer would you add to the earth box vegetables? Would you add any to the Fruit tree lick tubs? Last question, source for the 4” pipe?

[@BIGALTX]

I used the BM7 on everything... tubs, EBs, grow bags, etc. EB says use a 7-7-7 fert. (i think), but any complete fertilizer will work. This year, I'm going to try to use nothing but 20-20-20 water soluble and Complete Organic Fertilizer from Hoss Tools. The 20-20-20 worked wonders for me last year. Here's my affiliate link to Hoss: bit.ly/homesteadadvisor I just put a tablespoon down the fill tube every couple of weeks and watered... easy. But, I had also used some 10-20-10 when I first made the tubs and EBs. 4" pipe is at HD or Lowes, but I suggest you make one like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJLHeXWXo5xgeKs I got that pipe at HDepot

[@tintucquantrong1549]

Where did you get those colorful planters ? How many inches is the blue ? Thanks

[@BIGALTX]

They are about 20" tall and 20" wide... probably 20 gallons Building Wicking Tubs: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5jYf6KNhZ2SotU How to find them for free: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M

[@BOVANATOR]

New subscriber! I'm going to either make these, or the galvanized ones another KZbinr posted. I love the self wicking concept, and your Blackberries went absolutely crazy!! I live in Colorado, so I know I have to be extremely careful of which variety blackberries to get that will thrive in this environment. My question is, will the plastic tubs leech toxic chemicals into the soil over time? According to the research I've done on the galvanized tubs, they can eventually leech trace amounts of zinc and cadmium into the soil, but its at such trace amounts that it isn't cause for concern.

[@BIGALTX]

I would think the galvanization process is much more "toxic" than these plastic tubes. But really haven't researched it. You'll like the berries in containers. BTW... the Prime Ark Freedon blackberries really took a hit from the TX freeze. I had one container (an EarthBox) with Quachita berries in it and there was absolutely NO damage from the freeze. So... do your own research as to varieties.. there ARE differences in cold hardiness.

[@stevedulaney3744]

You must be getting close to 60😂 My knees pop like your does every time I squat!

[@BIGALTX]

I’m not even NEAR 60. But I AM near 70 😎. (69)

[@TheRainHarvester]

I think the fabric will work it's way down into the bottom of the tub, and allow the soil to touch the water. Will that allow water to wick into the soil too fast? (I was amazed how my wicking beds' poly was pulled down from the sides as my beds' soil got heavy. On my channel, "what didn't work").

[@BIGALTX]

I haven't noticed any noticeable "pull down" in my tubs, but when I installed it, it was long enough to be out of the tub. I had to tuck it in so it wouldn't stick up out of the tub. I watched your video. Maybe you could have had the fabric a little higher on the edges to allow for the settling... but not sure.

[@TheRainHarvester]

@@BIGALTX yes, that was a mistake I made. Maybe for these smaller tubs, the fabric will be stiff enough to handle the weight. Mine endured for a year, but then I noticed the roots, and lower water level.

[@dennissmith6thdistrictcomm934]

At 73 I do not want to fight the Tiller anymore. This looks great. Can I use a rain barrel to feed them?

[@BIGALTX]

Well… I’m almost 72 myself. So you’ve got me beat by a little bit 😊 I think a rain barrel would feed them just fine. You might have to elevate the rain barrel to get a decent PSI. Or, you could use a small solar powered pump, like for a little fish, pond, or something like that. Might work. Not sure.

[@strwbryparfait3889]

Wonder why Leon doesn’t use landscape fabric when using soda pop bottle wicking tubs

[@BIGALTX]

Doesn't have to. The holes in the bottles are too small to let the potting mix in. Landscape cloth is only used to keep the mix out of the corrugated pipes.

[@tinamariepayne7291]

There’s a lot of controversy about using Epson salt in your garden. A lot of people say it makes blossom end rot worse. I haven’t ever tried it so I can’t testify about it myself.

[@BIGALTX]

Calcium is best for BER. I use this: hosstools.com/product/pelletized-gypsum-soil-conditioner/ Supposed to all but eliminate BER. I'll know later this year. Stay tuned 😎

[@jimcrandall9188]

Where can I buy the BM7? Bought my trees at Bob Wells. Having a hard time finding the BM7. Love your channel.

[@BIGALTX]

I get mine at Hughes Plant Farm on Hwy 69 - south of Tyler - north of Bullard. It's about $13 per bag (3 CF i think) Hope that helps.

[@Lauren-hc7dc]

Glad I saw this video. You explain very well. I want to give this a try this year with my tomatoes.

[@BIGALTX]

So nice of you. Thanks for watching

[@frankdavidson9675]

been planting my tom . sucker s for years let them grow to pencil size snip burry about 2/3 in ground they will grow to big new free tom plant

[@cindyvincent9943]

I'm not sure that I understand the purpose of the ground cover barrier. Won't the potting soil naturally wick to the roots?

[@BIGALTX]

The barrier keeps the pipes from filling with potting soil. They stay full of water, not soil. The barrier also stops the roots from growing and allows them to "air prune". That really makes the plants thrive. alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@deb3bee]

Can I use perforated pipe if I don’t have corrugated???

[@BIGALTX]

Absolutely. Mr Leon says that works fine The water will be going in the ends of the pipe anyway

[@iamtheshaker]

Where did you get BM7 in Texas? I don’t see any Texas sales locations on their website (I’m in the DFW area)

[@BIGALTX]

Mine was at Hughes Nursery near Bullard. Try to find a "wholesale" nursery near you. Someone who sells to landscape companies, etc. alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@danhogle1776]

i have had issues with blossom end rot on my beefsteak tomatoes. The cherry tomatoes have no issues. I checked my ph and it was actually high (between 8.3 and 8.7 on all nine of them). I just put some cal/mag on it, added a ph reducer and sprayed them with the blossom rot spray. Any other suggestions? I keep hearing it eventually "corrects itself" but I don't understand how or why. I will admit that cattle tub growing produce a huge plant. This has been a ridiculously hot and dry summer and I do water regularly on top of keeping the tubs filled.

[@BIGALTX]

This year has been tough for sure And yes, most BER resolves itself eventually Here's an article I wrote on BER: homesteadadvisor.com/tomato-blossom-end-rot/

[@danhogle1776]

@@BIGALTX Thank you

[@cecilbrown4804]

Leon hooked me on milk jugs and water bottles, I understand a fruit tree would be in the container much longer than veggies. ..

[@BIGALTX]

I'm going to try the milk jug thing... looks cool... and soooooo easy!

[@munchkin5674]

There are many variations to set up a wicking type tub or self watering container, as that is what they are. You variation is a little different than Mr. Leons and thats fine. Mr. Leon even went to using plastic bottles instead of pipe. If you are not fortunate to have access to those awesome cattle feed tubs, you can use other tubs you can purchase from big box stores. Even the heavier duty Rubbermaid storage container bottoms will work for veggies growing, but not good for trees.

[@BIGALTX]

Absolutely correct. These can be made from most any container, if deep enough.

[@Anythingforfreedom]

Great video. Why/how does this work? Thanks for the tutorials. I want a blackberry hedge.

[@BIGALTX]

There is a water reservoir at the bottom that wicks the water up to the plants. Here are my blackberries in these tubs: kzbin.info/aero/PLutBw50GI1zw9M4UxWAN3n9yeJ_WYS8TD

[@Anythingforfreedom]

@@BIGALTX I was able to find them, but thanks for the response! And your content!

[@alboggs7561]

I saw a video plant a tree in the ground make wicking in ground put rocks tubs and fertilizer

[@BIGALTX]

Cool!

[@PrettyAliceNight]

What is the point of adding the lime?

[@BIGALTX]

Adjusting the PH The potting mix is low in PH. The lime brings it up

[@PrettyAliceNight]

@@BIGALTX ok thanks so much! So is that something I should do for mine too or not? I don’t know what the Ph will be.

[@BIGALTX]

@@PrettyAliceNight Probably should PEAT is about 5 PH and your mix should be at least 50% PEAT. So yes, add some lime to raise it up

[@PrettyAliceNight]

@@BIGALTX ok thanks so much!

[@seekerm7894]

I’m missing something...how does it wick when you have landscape fabric separating the soil from the water?

[@BIGALTX]

The soil contacts the water beside the corrugated pipes. Watch at 3:43 how I push the fabric down to the bottom of the tub. The soil will go down in those "dips" and will wick the water up.

[@seekerm7894]

@@BIGALTX that’s what I thought, but wasn’t sure.

[@richardwilliams3302]

Great videos on the wicking tubs and the use of your earthboxes throughout your garden. We started using the earthboxes this year, and have had the worst experience with mosquitoes and can only assume they are breeding in the water reservoir of the earthboxes. Have you experienced the same and if so, have you been able to prevent this from happening? Thank you for sharing.

[@BIGALTX]

This is what I do: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqTYXmZnZ62BoJI The link to the product is in the Description below the video Hope that helps

[@richardwilliams3302]

@@BIGALTX thank you again and I appreciate you passing this along.

[@ruthgreen7424]

I'm in Australia is that liner plastic or sarlon liner with holes in it hard to see what your doing

[@BIGALTX]

I'm sure it's some kind of plastic or polyester. Here is some on Amazon: amzn.to/32w480B Rob Bob is in AU or NZ and uses it, so it should be available to you. Check out his channel: kzbin.info Hope that helps, and Greetings from Texas! alan

[@lessycurls]

Where can I purchase the buckets?

[@BIGALTX]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M

[@Mossy5150]

This landscape fabric method is a great simple way to do this without needing to cut a false bottom from another container. Thanks for sharing

[@BIGALTX]

You are so welcome!

[@James-ph4yk]

Just wondering how long you leave your fruit trees in those containers... great video

[@BIGALTX]

I had planned on leaving the figs there indefinitely, but decided to get more blackberries for the orange tubs. Figs do well in containers. Other trees can do well, but it depends on the variety

[@jakehartley391]

What potting mix do you use and/or do you gave a diy mix?

[@BIGALTX]

Any good potting mix will work. I used Berger BM7 in this video. You can see the bags at about 11:00 in the video

[@GodlessGardener]

Can perennial trees/plants handle below freezing temps in these tubs, or will they need to be insulated?

[@BIGALTX]

I'm going to do a video on that subject next week... but think about it... the plants survive all winter in pots at the nursery before you bought them. So, if they'll survive winter in a 1 gallon pot, why wouldn't they survive in a 20 gallon pot which would provide more "earth insulation"? The video will go into more detail. Watch for it :)

[@GodlessGardener]

@@BIGALTX I understand, but the nursery usually keep their plants in greenhouses and not exposed to things like windchill. I'll keep an eye out for your video on it. Thanks!

[@The79woody]

I thought your drain hole was supposed to be one inch ABOVE the height of the corrugated drain pipe, no?

[@BIGALTX]

No... BELOW the top of the pipe. That leaves a 1 inch "air space" to help with air pruning for the roots. If you use 6" pipe your hole will be at 5" I used 4" pipe, so my hole is at 3" Hope that helps...

[@The79woody]

@@BIGALTX gotcha.... Thank you for clarifying!

[@anonymousguerilla2012]

it is much easier to bury a punctured bottle in a pot..

[@BIGALTX]

Sure... if you have enough bottles :)\ But, I like this one better. It's my "hybrid" wicking tub: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJLHeXWXo5xgeKs

[@brdlysct]

(mind blown sound here) OK. I have been using the cloth grow-pots (they're fantastic) but they can dry out rapidly due to the air circulation around the bag. I was setting up a (plastic) 1/2 barrel for a gardenia and I was looking for more soil at the base. I had an empty grow bag that was sitting about and I thought; if I half-buried the bag into the barrel I would get that much more soil from the raised tier. The grow bag fit perfectly into the barrel with about 2" between the walls of bag/barrel. I drilled some holes around the base to allow for drainage with the expectation that the growbag would wick the deeper water back up to the higher root zone. It also acts as an indicator as to the dry-state of the barrel. I really like this arrangement and was looking to do it again but your video has sent me into hard-ponder mode. Thank you for the inspiration! :)

[@brdlysct]

Uhm. Fig trees don't like water. :(

[@BIGALTX]

Give it a try!

[@BIGALTX]

My figs did GREAT in these tubs I recently planted the figs in the ground, but they spent a whole season in the tubs... they grew like crazy kzbin.info/www/bejne/mnulpqagnrJ5ms0

[@charlierose8164]

Alan , what is your procedure for getting the tubs ready to plant vegetables in the 2nd year ?

[@BIGALTX]

If it's blackberries or fruit trees, I don't do much. The tubs are almost completely taken over by the root system, so I just fertilize with water soluble fertilizer down the fill tube. If it's veggies (since I have removed last years residue) I try to pull out last year's fertilizer that I put around the rim of the tubs. I feel like several years of that and I would have a salt buildup from the fert. Then, I add more potting mix to fill it, more lime, and more fertilizer... just like the initial planting.

[@marshallingram3476]

How much water do you put in it at the beginning? Also how often and how do you you water?

[@BIGALTX]

Marshall Ingram Amount of water depends on the season. Summertime will probably be daily. They hold about 3 gal.

[@bettychapman9300]

Parallel

[@bettychapman9300]

Love ❤️ your channel!

[@BIGALTX]

Thanks, Betty!

[@sarahmangone7785]

What size is your wicking bucket?

[@BIGALTX]

These are about 18" tall and 20" in diameter.

[@tammynevil2422]

Love Gardening with Leon- family is in Texas-- I have been telling them to use these

[@BIGALTX]

They really do a great job growing food. Thanks!

[@aceofbase8]

Does that material allow water to come through to the soil.

[@BIGALTX]

You bet. It's landscape fabric. Lets water through really well.

[@chicksusalehman2526]

Where can you find those tubs?

[@BIGALTX]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M Someone near you has some, probably...

[@zanthiouswuzhere9452]

where can u get those buckets at? i cant find them anywhere

[@BIGALTX]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ2kgJ9vbpqGl7M

[@rvlucky2909]

Thank you for sharing I enjoyed the video have a great day and take care

[@BIGALTX]

Thanks for watching ! alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@cherylwalter7643]

Wondering about the cost of buying soil, plus the fertilizer! One thing I did learn is bagged soils and fertilizer is sooo expensive it's not worth growing my own food!

[@shilohharris7333]

The cheapest bagged soil I've found is from Dollar General and is $2.50 per bag. It may not be the best quality, but it seems to work! I'm about to try this type of thing with buckets from Aldi and gallon jugs and a t-shirt (what I had on hand) and see how it goes!

[@BIGALTX]

Good point, but the soil remains viable in the containers for many years. You don't have to replace it every year.

[@przybyla420]

You are buying bags of soil. It’s akin to buying water one bottle at a time. Have compost delivered and tightly tarp what you don’t use right away. It keeps.

[@Anna-cm7yu]

Brand new to gardening and built these containers. My question is after the dirt and fertilizer is in…I transplant some lettuce. How long do I water from the top until the wicking catches up to the new transplant? Another question is sowing seeds directly into this pot. How long do I water from the top until the wicking takes over watering my direct sow seeds? Any advice is appreciated. I am probably over-thinking, but stuck on these 2 questions.

[@BIGALTX]

Really, you just need to water once or twice. The potting mix starts wicking very quickly. Hopefully you used "mix" not regular dirt... dirt won't wick very well

[@Anna-cm7yu]

@@BIGALTX Yes..I used the premium potting mix suggested by Mr. Leon. Thank you for answering my questions. I know that you grow lots of blackberries..would your mixture work the same for blueberries? I used the fertilizer mix that Mr. Leon suggested, but I am reading that blueberries need more acidic soil. First time gardener in the suburbs and loving the container gardening every minute.

[@BIGALTX]

I use the same mix for everything. I don't grow blueberries, but as I understand it, they need acid soil. So, I wouldn't add ANY lime to the potting mix.

[@Anna-cm7yu]

@@BIGALTX Thank you so much for replying. I appreciate all the knowledge as I grow as a gardener.

[@ruthgreen7424]

How much water do you put in pipe

[@BIGALTX]

Till it runs out the hole. I would say it's about 3 gallons if it's empty, but you're not supposed to let it get completely empty. It depends on the size of pipe you use and where you put your drain hole. Hope that helps, alan

[@windyloom2267]

I made the wicking tubs but I am having trouble with the water getting really stinky. Do you think I put the holes too high. There is about 2 inches of airspace above the drainage tile but my holes are up 6-7 inches. The strawberries look great in them otherwise but I worry that things are going to go sour with the smelly water.

[@windyloom2267]

Do you have any suggestions. Should I make the holes lower? i have had a lot of rain.

[@BIGALTX]

This is my first year to use the wicking tubs. I have what seems to be algae on the outside of the holes, but don't know if there is a lot of it actually IN the tubs. You might let it go dry for 24 hours to kill any bacteria, etc.... just not sure. You might want to ask Leon at Gardening With Leon on KZbin

[@BIGALTX]

There should only be about 1" of airspace.

[@clivemossmoon3611]

How does the water wick up to the garden clothe if it's not touching it? I don't understand.

[@shilohharris7333]

The cloth is in the water along the sides of the pipes in the bottom. When he fills it with soil, the soil goes down in those "wells" where the fabric was pushed down the side, and that part of the soil will be in the water up to the 3" level or lower as the water is used.

[@clivemossmoon3611]

@@shilohharris7333 Ty for your answer.

[@bettyescookingchannel]

Thanks for sharing your gardening tips.

[@BIGALTX]

Bettye's Cooking Channel You bet, glad to help!

[@CraigDAL12]

Great Video, I have 3 questions, 1. What size hole do you drill for the drain hole? 2. What diameter fill tubes do you use, I have some ¾ pvc lying around, but what size is your filler....3. You mention putting 1 lb lime for fruit trees, what amendments do you use for blackberries and also veggies like peppers or tomatoes or beans? is it a different mix for every veggie if so do you have a guide?

[@BIGALTX]

I use the same potting mix and amendments for all of my stuff. Trees, berries and veggies get the same treatment. If I planted Blueberries... they would not get the lime. Blueberries need lower PH. The hole is about 1/2" but it's not critical The filler tube is 1 1/4". 3/4" might work, but easier to get a hose down into a larger one.

[@CraigDAL12]

@@BIGALTX Awesome, thanks for the quick reply I'm putting it together this weekend, if I can get the paint in time, my tubs are black and I want to paint white for the Tx heat.

[@Larry-q9d]

I would think that the very most important criteria to get spot on would be the correct PH for the particular plant you're planting . The uptake of nutrients is at its best when the plants PH requirements are met. There is no need for a scatter gun effect to applying fertilizer and minerals. There are charts available that tell you exactly what a plants needs are..,.,but if the PH is incorrect the plant can't absorb properly the needed amounts that results in maximum health and production for that plant

[@rosejafari8917]

What is the name of the orange tree?

[@BIGALTX]

It's a Bumper Satsuma orange. Here's where I got it. bobwellsnursery.com/product/bumper-satsuma-tree-cold-hardy-down-to-20-f-degrees-2-year-old-tree-bob-wells-nursery/

[@patsytipton685]

What kind of orange tree can we grow in zone 8, I think that is where you are also.

[@BIGALTX]

Satsuma orange is supposed to do well here. I'll be getting mine from Bob Wells Nursery. I'll probably get the "Bumper Satsuma". Here is a link: bobwellsnursery.com/?s=satsuma&post_type=product

[@firehorsewoman414]

Love this video You did a great job explaining and demonstrating this concept.

[@BIGALTX]

Thanks so much... Glad you enjoyed it!

[@firehorsewoman414]

@@BIGALTX this was the first video I watched from your channel - just found you. I live in D/Fw area and have a horrible problem with fire ants. I try not to use pesticides in the garden - do you have any solution to this issue? EDIT: Never mind this question - I looked through your videos and found the one you did regarding fire ants. Will watch it shortly. :)

[@joeyc4558]

That weed barrier looks like the row covers that I use. If it’s the same, it’s like a tarp and water will not penetrate it very well if at all.

[@BIGALTX]

Not sure what you're using, but this is "ground cover". I think it lets the water through, but in these tubs the water will "wick" up from the "wells" on each side of the outside pipes. The roots will hit the material and stop (root pruning), but the water will come from the wicking wells. I probably made that as clear as mud :) alan homesteadadvisor.com/

[@joeyc4558]

Sounds good. I look forward to seeing your results with the containers. May give me some ideas 😀