Easiest Raised Bed -- Ever

[@clwest3538]

I love this idea. A hint to obtain a used tank (less expensive) - check with local riding/roundup clubs or "livestock people" ... many of them have old tanks that leak sitting at the side - usually they just had water in them. I had two that leaked so painted them and converted them to gardens.

[@GardenerScott]

That's a great suggestion!. Thanks!

[@justruinedyourday4864]

Thanks 👍

[@Dee.C]

Also check craigslist and facebook marketplace. I got a plastic Rubbermaid black watering trough that leaks for less than $20 . I see them all the time on there.

[@HelluvaGuy-t3c]

Helluva idea Gardener Scott...helluva idea.

[@robertboyd2107]

Sidenote, if you’re going to drill additional holes spray area with a galvanized spray, or you will eventually rust out the drilled area and shorten the life of the bed

[@emmadalrymple4102]

I think this is a great idea, regardless if you decide to use it as a raised bed, leave it bare metal or paint it! The idea of having The grandkids paint it is great too. Hey, even have them put hand prints on it and date it too. Clear coat it, and it will be almost weatherproof. The ideas are limitless. Thanks for sharing!

[@GardenerScott]

I love the idea about hand prints. Thanks, Emma.

[@furkids4ever]

Check - think there's a special clear coat made for outdoors to resist fading ...

[@emmadalrymple4102]

Would love to see a photo if you decide to do this!

[@julieperry683]

Another reason I am using stock tanks is to flummox the gophers. Gopher cloth is very expensive to put under conventional raised beds, so that extra cost can go towards the stock tanks. Thank you for your video.

[@divawarrior6402]

I chose three 8 x 2 x 3 stock tanks. I went with them as my neighbors yard slopes towards mine and I was concerned about any chemicals they may treat their lawn with leaching into soil for my garden. So with the tanks on blocks, I have no worries of the soil being contaminated. Yes, it required a lot of work and soil, but this was my only options for planting a garden.

[@GardenerScott]

That's another great reason for using stock tanks that I hadn't thought of. Thank you for sharing that.

[@Mary-uz2tz]

I tried wicking buckets this year with great satisfaction. Could easily use the wicking system for these stock tanks.

[@trade0714]

Great channel GS. I just started researching raised bed gardening about a week ago and have been to one youtube video after another. Mind numbing experience. Then I stumbled onto yours. Very clean, thorough explanations. I'll be paying a lot more attention to you. Yea, I subscribed. Oh, and I like your calming voice.

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks! Welcome to the channel!

[@gudrunclarke4976]

This is a brilliant idea. I was stuck getting on with my garden design by the expense of the the usual options for raised beds.

[@kheikki9651]

I found galvanized 3' round fire rings at my farm supply store. Less than $70. I like them because they have no bottom. I have some directly on the ground, and some on pallets.

[@sue2011531]

Thanks for the information!

[@christinespeight3844]

Thank you so much, Gardener Scott. I live on a busier urban street and want to create a sound barrier in a tiered appearance. The galvanized trough s brilliant. The troughs will be used for creeping thyme that will cascade over the sides and behind the trough I am planting ornamental grass. This will take a bit of time but I am really excited to get going. I dislike grass and am converting my small front yard into low maintenance and the back yard into a food and fruit garden. Thank you so much for your inspiration.😃

[@marandakeck9868]

Came across your channel today. So clad I did! During quarantine, my daughter and I have been discussing planting a raised garden. Love the idea of using troughs!

[@elenidemos]

Another option is to place the extra drainage holes on the sides (slightly higher then the original drainage hole) & then use as a wicking bed. I also use old fridges with the motor & gas removed, they are great instant beds, but they don't last as long as the troughs.

[@GardenerScott]

Good idea, Eleni. Thanks.

[@Dee.C]

As the end of the video played and you said "give it a thumbs up" , my 4 year old grandbaby came in and said "thumbs up" . She likes to watch the videos with me usually . She always wants to help Gammy in the garden. I am glad. I look forward to passing on knowledge and love of organic gardening to her . Now we have another project to do in our garden this year. Thank you . I have a big Rubbermaid , black plastic watering trough and I know where I can get a metal one free from a friend. Bonus!

[@GardenerScott]

That's great! Thanks so much for sharing.

[@peaceoutlisar9500]

We live in zone 7b and my mother has 3. She loves it because it easy for her to access. I would live to see what you put in them as I need ideas for her over the fall and winter.

[@GardenerScott]

Easy access is another great reason for using them. I plan to use one of these for my horseradish and the other for mints. I'll be covering those ideas in a future video.

[@BRExteriorPro]

Where you live around ? I'm out in Blue ridge and can't find these

[@peaceoutlisar9500]

@@BRExteriorPro I think she purchased them at a feed store. Possibly Tractor Supply.

[@peaceoutlisar9500]

@@BRExteriorPro Central Virginia. Search Tractor supply or feed store closest to you. They are usually called stock tanks.

[@bullylove4]

I just picked up a tank and I'm so excited to set this up. I wanted to put a raised bed on my patio cause that's where I have the best space for it but I wanted a bottom and a material that will last so this seems perfect! Love that you're gonna have your grandkids paint them :)

[@kansasgardener5844]

This is an excellent idea! I have been fighting tree roots in my 2x12 wood raised beds for 4 years now. Why oh why didn't I think of this? The only downside of these would be cost but it would sure solve my root problems. Thanks for the tip!

[@GardenerScott]

That's another great reason to use stock tanks. Thanks for the idea.

[@skittles9970]

I hope we get to see them after your grandkids are done!

[@GardenerScott]

Definitely. They'll be in a future video.

[@meganmcbride7372]

I love the sound of his voice

[@wait4karma]

Lol, me too

[@WilliamDumoreGlobz]

Kind of like the Huell Howser of gardening

[@SemekiIzuio]

His voice says alot for his personality and characteristics. I feel he is a very patient person. Slow and clear, that's a good instructor.

[@SemekiIzuio]

Hm kind of like Bob Ross xD

[@HeartsGlobal]

Meet Mr Rogers brother Gardener Scott

[@lyndabuchholz1216]

I like this idea. I think I would drill holes higher so some water would be in the bottom to wick up. I will have to try this!!!

[@GardenerScott]

Great. These do lend themselves to create wicking opportunity.

[@KatWrangler]

We picked up two troughs this year We plan on picking up two more next spring. My husband ran irrigation to the troughs and raised them, so I don't have to bend over as much.

[@thedirtroadmystic]

We were so swamped last year. I have a 15 x 10 plot, and I planted two large rubber maid tubs, like the giant ones with wheels on one end... the plants in the tubs were the only thing that produced and didn’t get decimated by slugs. Its the only way I’m doing it this year. Everything raised. Let the raspberries and sunflowers take over the patch

[@tamikaadams8817]

Just a friendly dude with great tips!

[@alexishull6165]

Thank you so much! These raised beds are easy, peazy and a one man/woman job! I am really looking forward to getting started. Happy planting! 😄👌🏾😍

[@GardenerScott]

You're welcome, Alexis. Enjoy gardening.

[@speakez2305]

In a word: awesome! Thank you very much for sharing this excellent idea, Scott!

[@GardenerScott]

Thank you.

[@benzhangdeng9450]

I love this idea . the tree roots problem bothers me all time , this is a good solution . thank you !

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks. Glad I could help.

[@Angie-ci1lp]

Great idea! I was about to order the other metal raised beds🤦🏽‍♀️ Thank you !!

[@Enthrallogy]

Thanks!

[@GardenerScott]

Thank you, Samantha!

[@jetblack2602]

the vinegar tip is gold!

[@ruthbowe6480]

I have raised beds but not on the ground they are on legs so I can do standing do you have a video with this type of raised bed.

[@charlescoker7752]

When I painted houses in the 90's I would use lemon Juice on the galvanized drip edge to make the paint adhere to the metal. Vinegar would be cheaper.

[@GardenerScott]

The acid level is similar in both and I always prefer the cheaper way. Thanks.

[@dinavoutour7796]

I. Have a 8 ft long Tarter stock tank that is galvanized and I also have other stock tanks, that are made of a food grade rubber. We cut holes in the bottom since we are in Florida close to a beach we sometimes get monsoons or hurricanes. I once dried the worms in a bed and learned the open plug size was not enough.

[@carolynhannah8757]

I would love to see pics of how your grandchildren decorated your raised beds

[@kimberlygollehon5880]

I love this idea! I am not a good carpenter and don’t have many tools. This is great 👍🏻

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks!

[@TheBzybees]

I’ve taken out all of my wooden beds & replaced with galvanized fire pit rings & premade galvanized beds to be assembled. Inexpensive & can be stacked for extra height.

[@GardenerScott]

I like the idea of stacking. Thanks.

[@amykeefer9330]

Can you add branches/small logs in the bottom as filler like on the Hugelkultur video?

[@GardenerScott]

Absolutely. I didn't show it in this video, but that's what I did when I filled these.

[@katrina2931]

I started with these. I was able to get used ones at a cheaper price on FB market place.

[@furkids4ever]

Paint: check your favorite auto parts store for "Metalcast" anodized paint. It's made for shiny chrome / shiny metals or metal cast base coat. Color is limited. I used a pretty 'happy" blue on my citronella candle buckets for the patio. Purple for the sandy butt bucket! READ directions - you don't wait a long time between coats w this stuff. Just a thought.

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks. That's a good suggestion.

[@ksandberg2002]

Love this!!! Thank you 😊

[@ReneeBrooks-vf2ci]

I’m wondering about any lead content that may be in the galvanized steel.

[@heidigibbons1207]

I have one of those and a blue plastic water bucket I drilled holes in the bottom. That’s how I’m starting my garden! Wish me luck

[@GardenerScott]

Good luck, Heidi. 🙂

[@bobbrawley2612]

I like the horse trough raise beds. That size shown are available for $50 @ tractor supply. I'm gardening on rental property and the landlord has sizable bucket loaders to move such tubs if they prove to be in his way at a later date . I mostly garden in fruit trees pruned to stay small

[@villagesteader3552]

I just checked…@ Tractor Supply and they are 250.00! Where are you that they’re so cheap? I’ll come to your TS and get as many I can fit in my truck.

[@jamakin5]

Excellent idea with the troughs. Just like you I like the wood look better and that’s the route I’m going to go with but thank you so much for this idea. However I might use for potatoes or my mothers strawberries. Again thank you

[@GardenerScott]

You're welcome.

[@kukana228]

Found your channel watching KZbin on TV. Great video. Awesome explanation. I'm subscribed and checking out your other videos. So glad you are posting.

[@GardenerScott]

Thank you.

[@tessloneill7978]

I bought a 32 inch tall raised bed. There are panels to put together. Well, it has been tough…. Character building. There are eleven bolts to screw down each side .. which is over a hundred bots for twelve panels. When you get to the last panels there is a struggle to get the last panels to meet…. So I took some screws out to allow for some give. I still haven’t gotten it totally together. I will work on it this evening when it’s cooler.

[@KristiContemplates]

Reminds me of Great Gran's old stone laundry trough "garden pots"

[@OShaughnessysPub]

Thank you for all the information and great videos. Beginner Gardner so I subbed😃👍🏻 I like the fact that these stock tanks can stop some critters but some questions on worms? Can I add worms to this type of raised bed? Would it be beneficial? Or really not necessary? Thank you again for taking the “scary difficulties” away for this first time gardener!

[@GardenerScott]

Hi, Deborah. Welcome to the channel. You can add worms to beds like these and they can be beneficial. I find that with holes drilled in the bottom, worms will naturally find the beds.

[@rmtsfi2]

Good video. I like this idea. Lots less work in building the bed. How do you think this idea would work to create a wicking bed to grow my tomatoes/squash in? I like the wicking bed concept as it decreases the consistent watering to keep tomatoes healthy in hot weather and the time (which I do not have a lot of) in watering. The wicking bed is also more forgiving if you have to miss watering for a day or so and it is really hot weather.

[@GardenerScott]

This can easily create a wicking bed. Drill your drainage holes higher on the sides above the space for your reservoir.

[@elliemm557]

Oh, YES!! What a great idea!! They would even be perfect for.......water lilies, perhaps? 😍 Oh boy, I can't wait. I was ready to plunk down over a hundred dollars for a wooden raised bed, for vegetables, that I would have to put together. This is just perfect. There's nothing like one stop shopping for both things

[@ejfishes7610]

Great video! What was your approach to filling those? Did you put dried sticks , logs, leaves at the bottom then your soil? Thanks again!

[@GardenerScott]

I did put sticks at the bottom before filling with amended soil.

[@barbarabowen2701]

I have one water trough that rusted out and then my late husband recycled old hot tubs for our raised bed gardens

[@janecantrell7155]

I love this idea!!!!!

[@GardenerScott]

That's great!

[@reddirtgirl308]

Mr Scott dont You just love growing in the stock tank? I do..mine I use for spinach in the greenhouse..but could not put holes in a perfectly good tank...but I keep the soil loose with the plug out and set it on bricks and I keep spinach lettuces radishes all winter in the summer it turns back into a horse feeder...very good investment useful even in emergency situations. My husband says...lol also its very possible to move them around in case of weather or under shade for summer full sun for spring...excellent videos!

[@GardenerScott]

Thank you! So glad to hear from someone who gardens this way. I got the deeper ones so I can grow my horseradish and not worry about the roots escaping. They also are completely gopher-proof.

[@TrixieJFerguson]

Is there not a concern of the metal heating up and burning plant roots in the scorching summer sun? Would you need to insulate the inside with some kind of buffer before filling and planting?

[@GardenerScott]

There really isn't a difference in temperature, as I show in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJS5oIKdg86ea68

[@rogerspieker7991]

Answered a lot of my questions.

[@MohanKNair]

Excellent idea this is... love it.. the elliptical shape is better looking and innovative... may I know what's the gage of Galvanized steel plate may do?? for withstanding better

[@GardenerScott]

It has a 20-gauge bottom and 21-gauge sides.

[@koljag5]

Interesting idea.

[@GardenerScott]

It adds variety to the garden.

[@glennrogers5568]

Glad I found this site. Can’t the stock tanks be placed on the ground and not setting on wood?

[@GardenerScott]

These were just temporarily on wood so I could drill holes and paint. I have them buried a few inches in the ground in their permanent location.

[@FannysBakedGoods]

Couple of questions - do you sink them into the ground at all? And if not, how does the metal affect the heat of the soil? In a climate that can reach the 90s in summer, would I need to be concerned about the soil getting too hot? Thanks!

[@GardenerScott]

I do sink them about 6". I have a video where I compared soil temps and it doesn't vary much from other raised beds or ground beds.

[@christdriven8790]

I really like this, what about the heavy rubber tanks similar to these? Thank you.

[@GardenerScott]

I haven't used them, but they should be similar. They will need drainage holes too.

[@christdriven8790]

@@GardenerScott Thank you Scott.

[@privateuploads-geo2625]

Scott.... I have 4 2x4' metal troughs I started using last year. The critters though ate everything that grew, so it was an epic fail. This year I am going to make some hoop system to cover these beds, and hopefully keep out the squirrels, mice, birds, rats, and rabbits, and deer. Any idea on a good way to do this ? I guess I could put fasteners on the outside and hold the hoops in place that way, and then cover with shadecloth (we get 90-100 degrees for 3-4 months). the main concern is with a tight seal on the top of the galvanized lip, to keep critters from wiggling in. And putting some holes in the sides shouldn't cause too much of a problem.... I can always seal them up if I need to. thx again for sharing, it got me to thinking ;0)

[@GardenerScott]

I like cattle panel hoops. They are a little harder to bend but you can cut to size and their weight is enough to hold them in place without additional fasteners. Clamping cloth to the edges may be enough.

[@ILkaterlyn]

Container gardening groups recommend drain holes 2-3” above bottom, to keep a reservoir of water…your thoughts? Assuming one would fill bottom with tree branches, pine cones, organic filler…maybe cardboard then 3” of composted organic soil, then plant? I see you filled with twigs and amended soil and such… Also you recommend drainage holes depending on plant type. Thanks. I received tanks from moving horse people… and have used window wells bolted to barn wood..

[@GardenerScott]

It depends on the depth of the container and how deep the roots grow, but that reservoir can help, especially with the woody material at the bottom.

[@PrettyAliceNight]

I like this idea. I’d have to call around to see where I can find them.

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks. Look for ranch and farm supply stores. I go to Big 'R' stores.

[@annestudley8235]

Great idea - thanks for sharing with us.

[@GardenerScott]

You're welcome.

[@super123steve]

I like the idea,can the lead of the galvanizing be a problem in the soil?

[@GardenerScott]

Remember that these are made to hold water for animals. People and animals have been drinking water from galvanized pipes for decades. Unless they're in an acidic location, the possibility of leaching is minimal and even if a little zinc were to leach into the soil it wouldn't cause harm to plants.

[@GardenerScott]

Remember that these are made to hold water for animals. People and animals have been drinking water from galvanized pipes for decades. Unless they're in an acidic location, the possibility of leaching is minimal and even if a little zinc were to leach into the soil it wouldn't cause harm to plants.

[@super123steve]

@@GardenerScott that is true,thanks

[@johnsluga3]

I have used similar containers to make wicking beds for my garden with great success and less labor and time spent, Instant garden beds.

[@GardenerScott]

Yes, the watertight feature makes them a good choice for wicking beds. Thanks.

[@tinktink9459]

Can the tanks be placed on blocks .... question from Willis , Texas?

[@GardenerScott]

Sure.

[@GrumblingGrognard]

Well, heck... I was liking your other 4x4 method of building raised beds, until I saw this one and slapped myself! STOCK TANKS! Of course! Great idea!

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks! 🙂

[@StuckInThe70ss]

If only they weren't so expensive :-( I bolted two window wells together for under $50.

[@rebeccazody1278]

Smart!

[@ILkaterlyn]

Ours went up $10 each during Covid!

[@sue2011531]

Gardener Scott: I am new to gardening (just a couple of experience) and by accidently bump into this video and I love it very much. After watching this video of easy raising garden bed, I brought one stock tank today at local tractor supply. My question is: do I need to drill some holes at the bottom of the horse stock tank for water drainage, right? As you haven't mention it in your video.

[@GardenerScott]

Yes, I suggest drilling holes for drainage. I show that in the video at 06:55.

[@joannehunstiger9987]

Love this idea! Thanks 😊

[@GardenerScott]

You're welcome.

[@valarkland7558]

What steps to paint the stock tanks. 🤔 exactly please? Thank you. Also, did you do the vinegar before you did primer?

[@GardenerScott]

I started with a metal primer and then two coats of exterior latex.

[@valarkland7558]

@@GardenerScott Thank you. 😊 Love you videos and information. I am trying to learn so I can attempt some root bags and raised gardens next year. Thank you.

[@judya.shroads8245]

Great idea. The cost would be my only concern. We have them in our farm store.

[@GardenerScott]

Yes, the cost is a big factor, Judy. The bottomless ones are less expensive.

[@dystopiagear6999]

Yes, you have to balance the initial cost with the fact that they will last a LONG time. As others have said, I've found some smaller ones that were discarded due to leaks. I don't mind th eleaks because I drill drainage holes in them anyway.

[@jameswitte5167]

Spray the tanks with black bed liner and they warm the soil faster in te spring ... Good idea to let kids paint the containers ... Maked it more personalized ... Each kid an have their own bed ... Having the soil level between knees and waist makes tending so much easier ... Don't forget to bend some hog panels overhead between two beds ... Tomatoes, squash, peas and other vines love it and makes a shady spot to harvest from ...

[@GardenerScott]

Thank you for some good ideas. I discovered these beds because I had planned to arch a panel between them.

[@darlap.132]

Couple questions about this. I have the opportunity to get 2 of those tanks that are 6’ long. But they are very rusty inside. Is that going to matter. Also if I can use them I was thinking of putting blueberries in them so I could amend the soil to what the blueberries need. What are your thoughts??

[@GardenerScott]

The rust shouldn't harm your plants. It might show that the metal has weakened so I suggest checking it for any holes before filling with soil.

[@bcarss1970]

Hi Scott. I could do this with the Rubbermaid stocks tanks too? Thanks.

[@GardenerScott]

Sure. Plastic and rubber tend to break down faster in sunlight, but can be used instead of metal.

[@michaeldufresne9428]

I thought about using stock tanks for planters, but was afraid that once I drilled holes for drainage I was just asking for rusting to start. Won't that be an issue?

[@GardenerScott]

Galvanized steel will rust in time, but it hasn't been a big problem for me.

[@mday1416]

I like this idea, only using a longer tank. But I'm thinking that by not drilling holes in the bottom and leaving the drain hole open, you have somewhat of a leaching bed that will hold moisture more easily. That's just my thought for now anyway.

[@sarihalevy45]

That's a great great video. I hope I'll find a ranch supplies in Tampa area Florida.

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks. Good luck.

[@donnanelson9181]

Do you add anything to the bottom, like gravel for drainage, before you put the dirt in?

[@GardenerScott]

Good soil improves drainage. Gravel actually hinders it.

[@donnanelson9181]

@@GardenerScott thank you. I have seen a couple of videos where people put a few inches of gravel in the bottom before they add the soil and say you need to do that so the water can drain. It doesn’t make sense. If your garden was in the ground you’d not add gravel under it. I wonder if water would even make it to the bottom of a two foot deep tub of soil. Seems to me it would evaporate off, especially in a hot climate like Oklahoma, which is why we have to keep watering all the time.

[@jimtrebes7926]

Live in East Texas and it get to 90-100 degrees. Do you think they might get too hot. Thanks

[@GardenerScott]

I have another video where I tested and found that they really aren't any hotter. Here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJS5oIKdg86ea68

[@carlpenney901]

There is a primer for galvanized steel. I bought two 1ft x6ft water tanks and primed a painted them gray. My grandkids use sidewalk chalk and draw on them they think that is great. I used 2x10 lumber on end to raise so I didn't need to bend over so much. They work great.

[@GardenerScott]

Great idea. Thanks.

[@creinicke1000]

I'm in AZ , hot Phoenix.. I am started gardening small scale this summer, I used plastic tubs set up as wicking tubs.. so I can water and have the reservoir in the bottom for water.. BUT!! My tubs/planters are dark or black.. so they absorb heat, so I'm planning on spray painting them light to see if that helps keep the soil cooler.. the question I'm trying to ask is do you think using these would work for me in AZ, or would the metal be too hot in our 100+ sun and heat? I'm going to check on cost.. I'm cheap, so who knows, but it's definitely an Interesting idea.

[@GardenerScott]

I can't give you a definite answer, but I have some of the same concerns. I plan to do a video next year when I compare soil temperatures in wood, metal, plastic, and concrete beds, but I don't know now. One of the reasons I decided to paint these beds with a light color is to help reflect the light/heat and keep them cooler. I suspect the bare metal would heat the soil, but painted metal would be less.

[@creinicke1000]

@@GardenerScott thanks.. we'll be researching together.. at least now I don't think I'm crazy for thinking about this.. either way it's important to know so I can decide.. I may just stick with what I have because it's cheaper.. but knowledge is power.

[@algo9136]

Wicking tubs are great in locales where water must be conserved. You might want to spray the tubes with reflective paint or put them inside a mini polytunnel wrapped in shade cloth.

[@clwest3538]

If the look doesn't offend, use an old bamboo shade - wrap around and secure then trim to height ... that's what I did when I live there. My grandmother just gardened in the ground on the south side of her shed (where the sun was shaded in the heat of summer and if she happened to plant a little late, it stayed warm in the autumn)

[@creinicke1000]

@@clwest3538 I think that is a great idea!!!

[@jeffreyheuser9503]

Found you today Scott and have been watching for hours!!! A great idea to use the troughs! Im in COSprings, where are you? Thank You-Jeff

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks! I'm in Falcon.

[@jeffreyheuser9503]

@@GardenerScott WE ARE NEIGHBORS!!!

[@alicenfred]

Hi, is the galvanized steel safe for gardening?

[@GardenerScott]

It is. In very acidic soil some of the zinc might leach into the soil but that isn't a problem.

[@MikeSmith-og5mg]

Your videos rule! Thx.

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks!

[@Nicnackity]

Very helpful

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks.

[@Deeloveshergoldies]

These would make great wicking beds

[@GardenerScott]

Absolutely. I'm considering making a video about that. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@theUltimate11199911]

Hi Scott, would the metal act as a good conductor of heat during the day and pose a threat to the roots? Also is it a good idea to bore holes on the walls as well? Which do you recommend? a. A bottomless tank b. Tank with a bottom

[@GardenerScott]

The metal does conduct heat but does not noticeable affect soil temperature as I show in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJS5oIKdg86ea68 You can add holes if you want extra drainage. The decision on a bottom depends on the plants you're growing and if you need a barrier to the native soil.

[@mechele4848]

Pros and cons of bottomless-solid bottom? Thanx! 👋

[@GardenerScott]

For plants like horseradish that I'm growing in one of the beds, it keeps the roots from spreading to other areas. And it keeps the roots of nearby trees from entering the bed. Most of the time I prefer open bottoms so that soil organisms can move freely between the beds and surrounding soil.

[@chenvo6948]

Hi Scott. Do you put any hole the side of the tank? How many? Thanks. Why not if you don’t? And why yes if you do? Just asking. Lol. Have a good day.

[@GardenerScott]

Good questions. I plan to bury these beds about 12 inches and will add some holes at that level. I don't want holes higher up because of the paint and decorating of the bed; I don't want water and soil running out holes and causing streaks. For someone who leaves it as bare metal, higher holes would be okay.

[@shounathao8697]

I live in Minnesota. What do you prefer for use for bed gardening? This is will be my first time doing my gardening. Thanks

[@GardenerScott]

I use many different types of beds. I prefer high raised beds for my veggies. Check out my many other videos that show how I build different beds and prepare them.

[@warrenjason5985]

Hi scott..... I like your video 👍👍

[@GardenerScott]

Thank you, Warren.

[@52sharonmarie52]

now need video on what plants will grow in 1 foot deep v. 2 feet or won't work at all for certain plants, whether veggies or flowers

[@KeyAnah]

Hi, Thx for all the informativ videos,...question....would a IBC self watering wicking bed be a good idea and how would you fill it, i am thinking sustainability, waist not, want not... I have issues with my back and nees så my options ar limited, it have to be easy. I have horse manure, chicken manure, charcoal/ash and a kitchen scrap recycle bin, + wood logs to my disposal. And i am thinking a closed cycle, how long would i last or work until it would have to be refreshed. Would it be better with a raised bed, i live in a grove zone 7-8, more 8 then 7. Thx

[@GardenerScott]

A wicking bed can be a good option for gardeners, especially in dry areas. It sounds like you're well prepared so far. I don't have a video on it yet so I suggest you search for a full tutorial on another gardening channel.

[@1tutoo]

How do you get rid of vermins in your garden? What do you do to deter them?

[@GardenerScott]

I try to keep the garden clean so they are less likely to enter. But I also use beds like these that they can't easily get into. With my garden built and full of plants, I encourage friendly snakes that can help too.

[@peterstevens4223]

Those look nice, we don’t have anything like that here in New Zealand !!!

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks, Peter. What do ranchers use to water and feed livestock? Those tanks can be used in a similar way.

[@vtbn53]

@@GardenerScott We have them in Australia poly/galv/painted but they are all very expensive, it's actually cheaper to buy the real thing like this: www.bunnings.com.au/-/media/au/our-range/brand%20pages/birdies/row-2-2nd.jpg

[@GardenerScott]

That's a nice looking bed, Percy. Thanks. We don't have those in the US.

[@peterstevens4223]

@@GardenerScott We have cattle troughs here in NZ, but they are made of concrete.

[@peterstevens4223]

@@vtbn53 We have something similar here in NZ, but they are rubbish!

[@Shonna.C]

We have a water trough that hasn't been used in years. We used it as a swimming pool. It's huge! Only about 2 or 3 ft deep, but it's about 24 ft in diameter. Is there a way to easily section it out to make it easier to handle? We are needing to use this for something.

[@GardenerScott]

I'm not sure of an easy way to section it. Maybe fill it (a lot of work) and steps up to it to make an elevated garden bed.

[@Shonna.C]

@@GardenerScott alright. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@johnbroxson1086]

Do the stock tanks get to hot to touch in summer? I can remember the metal slides at the playground getting incredibly hot.

[@GardenerScott]

They don't. I have a video that shows the temperatures in summer. The soil helps moderate the bed temperature and the metal stays cool to the touch.

[@DiscoveringFactswithJamie]

Great 👍