Wicking Bucket Containers - Budget Built for patio container gardening

[@Wiseash2023]

You are the only who explained it so clearly and without all the talking 😂😂😂😂😂

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you. Happy I could help. Much appreciate the watch and comment. Happy Growing

[@BugRod64]

thanks for the video. putting a cap on the tubes, will also stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in the bucket

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Yep. You are very correct. Since I use pipe I have laying around or left over. It’s often various sizes. So I cut 20oz bottles in half and put over the ends. Works great. Thanks for watching. Happy Growing.

[@BugRod64]

@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead what is your thoughts on using 2 liter soda bottles?

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

For a 2 liter bottle. Only difference I would do is put drain hole at 6” instead of 5”. To leave less air space and allow for more water retention, as your container volume is now less.

[@cristina4436]

I think you can use mosquito bits to avoid that issue

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@cristina4436 I've seen some folks using them to keep mosquitos out and prevent them from laying eggs. Definitely an option.

[@jillbruce3624]

Awesome and easy enough for elderly gardeners.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy to help.

[@dreamingrightnow1174]

Thank you for sparing us the long intro. That alone is worth visiting your channel.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Much appreciated.

[@debodeeful]

To keep mosquitos from going in the drain hole, I used the green scrub pads for six, and cut a piece if and stick it in hole, over watering can go through, but skeeter could not get in and lay eggs. Window flex screen can be used to cover top of PVC pipe, and I just used a silicone rubber band to secure, so I did not have a skeeter hotel going in and out. Water can be poured in, skeeter stayed out.😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Awesome ideas. Sounds like those ideas would work great. Thanks for sharing.

[@evarogers8775]

I'm going to keep it simple and just drop a plastic solo cup over each pipe .

[@robertawestbrooks9531]

Great ideas, thanks 4sharing 😂❤❤❤❤

[@urkiddingme6254]

Two great ideas. Even in dry Colorado I find I can breed mosquitoes if I leave standing water where they can get in. One tip for applications requiring standing water, such as a cattle tank or bird bath -- If you stir standing water daily, the eggs will not hatch. At least that seems to work on my pond if I shoot a water hose at it every morning in summer.

[@schnder1]

Excellent instructions (I appreciated that you sacrificied a milk jug to thoroughly show every detail). Thank you so much!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I appreciate the watch and comments. I’m a visual learner. And I find so many videos lose me when I’m not certain what they are talking about. Happy Growing

[@urkiddingme6254]

Picked up this tip on a Reddit forum. You can paint the buckets on the outside with acrylic exterior paint to protect the plastic from UV degradation, so they'll last longer and not crack after one season in the hot sun.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for the tip. I hadn’t painted these buckets. Because, I like the opaque feature. It allows me to visually see the water line and know when I need to add water to the reservoir or when to stop just before overflow to retain whatever nutrients or fertilizer I added. Without using a float or looking down the tube. But you are definitely right. The quality and strength of most five gallon buckets will last 5-6 years in my area with the UV. Then after that, they become brittle and start cracking. Happy Growing

[@urkiddingme6254]

@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead I'm in Colorado. The sun is intense, and buckets left outside last about a year here. Yours are probably sturdier, though. I've been reading up - food grade buckets are thicker than the ones I pick up in big box stores.

[@TheRooflesstoofless]

Nice tip! I’ve completely moved away from buckets because of the UV damage drawback. 🤔

[@julijulibobooli]

I am so glad that I stumbled across your video! I am growing food on my balcony and this method looks great for us!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I’m glad you found it as well. This method will be perfect for a balcony. Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@darlenecoplin5657]

I just ran across his video too. I also am limited to a patio..hope it works. Good luck😅

[@scottlindsay856]

Also I appreciate the attention to detail. It helps when you give all the steps and don't leaving things out assuming we will figure it out! So helpful your a good man.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching and commenting. My bucket vegetables did so much better this year as compared to my in ground vegetables. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how only watering and fertilizing down the tube increases the plants growth. Happy Growing.

[@jeremiah6462]

​@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead So, I've watched many hours of growing tips. I see your video, and I am confused about what the benefit is here for this. Can you help me understand? Why not just cap the end of the PVC and drill holes in that? Then you can skip the jug. I am asking as a total novice. I don't understand the benefits of the jug, or any of this.

[@roxannrousealvarado4645]

Will this method work for sugar baby 🍉?

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@jeremiah6462 not sure why I’m just seeing this comment now. Sorry for the delay. The jug acts as a reservoir of both water and air. At differing times. And both are beneficial to the plant. The method you speak of can work. But the water volume won’t be large enough to distribute water across the potting mix to intact the wicking process and the pipe won’t contain a large enough surface area of air to allow for air pruning. Which prevents the plant from becoming root bound. Additionally the large volume of water the jug can hold. Results in less time and need for you to go out and water the plant. Hope that helps and makes sense. Happy Growing

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@roxannrousealvarado4645 yes. Would just need a space for the watermelon to vine. Sorry for the delay in responding. I never got notified on this threads comments. Happy Growing

[@cynthiamoore4327]

This was so simple, I just made three of them and planted tomatoes in them and we'll be sharing video with family meeting

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@BSDCandMore]

I’ve watched A LOT of these self watering DIY videos….. and this is, by far, the best! Off I go!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Happy to help. Thank you for watching and commenting. Good luck on your new endeavor and happy growing to you.

[@JRNurse2013]

This is the best video for wicking tubs I’ve seen yet! I love it when people teach so that things are duplicatable. Thank you!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for the kind words. That’s the hope. That anyone who watches this can be successful utilizing this method. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@RajaN-zk9rn]

PLASTIC IS INJURIOS TO HEALTH.... ALREADY MICRO PLASTICS ENTERED IN OUR BODY BLOOD WITH THIS PROCESS ONE OF REASON ...ALERT ALL PEOPLE SAVE NEXT GEN

[@carmenmarshall5787]

You’re obviously a scientist of some kind, which is great because all the details matter if you want results rather than “hit and miss”. I’m going to use some of your techniques, putting buckets up on something to avoid bending. Thank you!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for the kind words. Details definitely matter. Glad I could help. Happy Growing

[@StephStruble]

Lettuce is a "heavy feeder!". I love your set up here and may I say, you are a wonderful teacher. You made sure we could see what you were doing and you were very precise on measurements and other information! Excellent job, subbed your channel!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching, commenting, and the sub. Much appreciated. Happy Growing

[@jeanhansen3488]

Awesome video… clear, concise. Great job showing what you’re talking about. Not too much Chatterchatterchatter. If you are not a teacher…. You SHOULD be! Thank you 😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you …. Very kind words. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@LouiseBelleau-q3z]

You are a wonderful teacher. Thank you for taking the time to demonstrate every step instead of just talking about how to do it.. Thank you once again!!!!!😊😊😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much. I truly appreciate the kind words. Thanks again for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@jamesshaw3850]

I found your channel today 3/21/2023. From buffalo NY and this is exactly what I wanted to do. Thank you for being informative on your process. Home depot here I come right now. Many blessings to you and your family brother.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for commenting and watching. Very kind words. Happy Growing.

[@theresadevore9312]

I just found this channel, I'm from Springville.

[@toniafolven]

Grocery store bakeries have food grade buckets that had icing in them. I have asked the baker for some with lids,which i have used for food storage as well. Ask and ye shall receive.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Great way to be resourceful. Those buckets sound perfect. It’s amazing what one persons trash can be converted to. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@kimberlys.wetzel5448]

I made bobbers with dowel rods inserted in small corks - marked the dowel rods when jug was empty - filled jug - dowel rod rose accordingly

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I love that method. Thanks for sharing. I’ve been using the hoss tools fruit tree watering hose with emitters on a timer. The little tube goes in the pvc. And covers well with a 20 oz bottle. One day I may build a bunch of bobbers. Just so many wicking tubs currently in use. Thanks for commenting and watching. Happy growing

[@DiannaAtherton]

I am so glad you said it. I've been planting in buckets for years. My parents planted veggies in terracotta pots, old buckets and my father is 92 and my mother is 90 healthy and still gone

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I’m glad the video was of use to you. Happy Growing

[@cclothier2172]

Thank you for easy way to do wicking buckets, I've been watching so many of them. Your by far is the easiest and best way to do them. Thank you.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and the awesome comment. Happy Growing

[@GinaKayLandis]

Best description of how to plant in the buckets. Subscribed!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Much appreciated. Thank you. Happy Growing

[@babooskie866]

Dude you earned yourself a new subscriber!!! I watched your video and showed my wife...super awesome video,simple,easy,to the point,and your editing is awesome👍🏾👍🏾

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much. Appreciate the kind words, the watch, and the comment. Plan to have more here shortly. Winter was rough with the drought and I let my in ground garden rest. Happy Growing

[@phatgyrlslim76]

Definitely trying this on my buckets this spring. I was out watering so much it took the fun out of trying to garden.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

This method will definitely help with that. In my area of zone 9a. Late spring. Early summer. Watering became so tedious. Until I found this method. Now it’s much better and the plants are less stressed and more productive. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@barbaraniemeyer1706]

I’m a city person so I’m very grateful for your instruction. ❤

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

You are very welcome. Happy I could help. Happy Growing

[@beverlypatterson2550]

Wonderful video 😊. The entire presentation was easy to follow and understand. Your voice and verbal communication were excellent. Thank you! ❤😂🎉

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for such kind words. Appreciate you watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@lettybromenschenkel5807]

I have been bucket growing, this is the best idea for the wicking buckets. I had been using water drainage tubes covered with cloth. this is a better system anxious to get my growing tubs repurposed with this wicking system thank you. also>>> tip for you or others... save the old socks.. if you over cut the hole for the water tube... =cut a hole in socks and slip it around the water tube and it will filter out the soil if you make a cutting mistake...

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I use the French drains with landscape fabric on my large tubs. They work great as well. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@bonniepeyton4085]

it does my old heart good to see a young man interested in growing food.' I needed a good lesson in self watering systems. when I was in alaska in the late 90s, I was shown how to grown african voilets at a grow show in wassilla, ak. three things the guy said was, grow light 24/7. then 1/4 fertilizer each week as a water, and the last one was a relavtion to me. a wick in the bottom so it could draw up water all the time, which is what you are saying. bingo.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Wicking for me has been far superior to any other method I’ve tried before. Happy Growing.

[@ChaosOrZen]

Not for nothing, but a lot of us are "just trying to hold it all together" Thanks for the helpful video!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@goteamtortoise3205]

SO much easier than all the other methods I’ve seen. And your instructional style is very clear. I subscribed and will be checking out all your stuff!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much. I truly appreciate it all. The kind words, the watch, and the sub. Happy growing.

[@elisabethloxley6124]

I’ve never seen this method before. Excellent idea. I will give it a try. Many thanks

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Happy to help. Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@char8a291]

I’ve watched several wicking videos and your was the first that made the most sense to me. Thanks so much!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Awesome to hear .... I really tried to show the final product with the cut away jug for demonstration. Appreciate the comment and the watch. Happy Growing

[@char8a291]

@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead you’re a natural teacher and it shows. I have several collard green plants to plant as soon as our rain in Tx slows down.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you Char 8a. The rain is here as well in South Louisiana. Ready for it to slow and maybe even stop for a bit.

[@christiandeininger1790]

Thanks mate that's a way better system than I've seen on other KZbin channels that didn't do so well. I'm definitely doing your system. Thanks again mate from Australia. 👍 22:59

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

You are very welcome. Happy to help. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@bombietours]

Dude I think that's the longest drill bit I have ever seen...nice simple setup... going to give it a try for sure.👍

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

That drill bit has been getting a lot of attention. I’m not even sure what’s its original use or intention was for. But simply what I had around the shop. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@byDsign]

Back in 2006, I bootlegged the *Earthboxes* using 18 gal Rubbermaid tubs. Thought that was so clever back then. Your method is way easier and cheaper. Thanks for sharing! ✅

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I’ve done the same thing and those rubber made tubs didn’t last longer than a year in the the Louisiana heat and humidity. These buckets will last 5+ years without fail. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@byDsign]

@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead .... I'm in South Florida so I know about heat n' humidity! 👀

[@byDsign]

_New subbie!_ 😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@byDsign thank you 😊

[@OfftoShambala]

If you are talking about those storage bins… they are worth it but if anyone reading this wants to use those… get the black HDx type containers (w red and yellow lids)

[@lanettelawrence6308]

I knew there were easier ways setup the buckets than what I’ve seen from several other KZbinrs.

[@nataliehowe6213]

Best video on a wicking pot ever. My other ones didn’t work and now I know why. Can’t wait to make some new ones! Thanks 😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you. Happy I could help. Happy Growing

[@libertykatrkm]

Nice. You saved my buckets for re purposing a real garden this year! ❤🎉

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Happy to help. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy growing.

[@spir5102]

Thank you for the clear instructions and the budget way to do this. Much appreciated!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@spir5102 thank you for watching and commenting. Happy to help.

[@wingsandbeaksbirder2312]

You, sir, are an excellent teacher. Thank you for sharing your expertise.😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@shelly-sun-energy]

This is such a smart idea! I love it. It makes life a lot easier when watering. I will give it a try.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@shelly-sun-energy thank you so much. I’m happy to help. Happy Growing this upcoming season.

[@reversiontothemean6129]

As someone who is about the delve into some gardening for the first time soon, this seems like the perfect set up for me to be able to learn a little about different plants without killing them. Even though I do not eat vegetables or fruit, the family will be appreciative of some homegrown stuff. Really appreciate the video.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Happy to help …. You’ll be surprised on what some folks are willing to try when they watch it grow themselves. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@countrygalinthecity]

Thank you so much! I had to sell my 5 acre farm and move back to town with a postage stamp yard...been driving me nuts😊!... I'm certainly going to try these!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

You are very welcome. Thanks for watching and commenting. I think you’ll be very satisfied with this method. Happy Growing

[@kittyskid1]

You demonstrated and explained this so well. Thank you.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching and commenting

[@stevepethel6843]

😂Thank God for great videos like you have given to all us ...

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@ritahopple6360]

We’re going to make and plant today! Your video is the best. Clear, simple and basic. Plus you show results. It works! Thanks.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much for the kind words. The watch. And the comment. Truly appreciated. Happy Growing.

[@jackieburnett6881]

I loved your video! I personally liked the way you went step by step explaining was little thing. Definitely worth trying to make it!!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much. I tried to explain it the best way I could for the most comprehensive understanding. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@dianneblackman]

So so simple... don't know why other videos make this so complicated. I've wanted to try the wicking bucket method for years but it always seemed like too much work. Will definitely do it now. Thank you.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Glad to be of help. Happy Growing

[@goldenmare2594]

Yes...this is so simple but effective...so glad i found this...my last experience with bucket growing didnt go so well..we had a VERY wet spring then many dry months..thank you for sharing your knowledge..i am now hun more buckets

[@goldenmare2594]

One inch pvc can work (use what ya can get..especially when free) as well as not a 45 angle but not flat on bottom..

[@goldenmare2594]

A used dryer sheet could be used to cover drain hole too

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@goldenmare2594 literally anything you have available can work. As long as it holds up and gets the job done. I have some with real small pvc. Just take a little longer to fill up with water. Thanks for commenting.

[@sjtube6198]

I found your description on the process easy to follow

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you. Happy to hear that my message came across well. Much appreciated. Happy Growing

[@VNGardener79]

❤❤❤ Your knowledge took a long time to acquire, with a lot of trial and error. I sincerely thank you for your generosity in sharing your growing knowledge it's priceless to us all. It's good to see you looking better

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Such a kind and thoughtful comment. Much appreciated.

[@scottlindsay856]

I AGREE 100%

[@jogriffiths4797]

Fantastic! I’ve changed to wicking beds, and wanted an easy and cheap way for additional plants. The only caution I’d add is that of course you can’t talk on camera with a mask, but after contracting legionnaires disease from potting mix a couple of years ago, it’s worth reminding folk to mask up when handling potting mix.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Good tip. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@bbulliard]

Also wear gloves cause of skin diseases

[@larryturfus5897]

Wow, I HOPE you are Healthy and thank you for the heads up!!! I never heard of that until you spoke up so Many THANKS Friend!!!

[@loverlyme]

I was worried too when I saw all that dust flying around when various products were added to the potting mix. Many bacteria can lay in the dirt without us ever knowing it (including tetanus). It's okay to get the loose soil on your skin but if you breathe it into your lungs you can be in real trouble. Always wear a mask and gloves when dealing with soil and additives. Better to be over-cautious than to endure the woes that might arise.

[@fancythat5136]

I was unaware that can happen! Thanks for the heads up.

[@augeniasestokaite4674]

U r doing a blessing on everyone who sees and hears your simple, direct instructions-am in Ct-am still waiting for the “final” winter storm!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

We are getting down to freezing or at least very near tonight. Moved all bucket plants inside. The beauty of the method. Praying it’s the last time. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@rosskstar]

Great method. I have larger wicking tubs and even IBC halves. I had to cover the holes with screen wire and use pipe caps to keep mosquitoes out.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I’ve never had issues with mosquitos and the side holes - or at least to the extent where I’ve noticed them. But definitely on the fill tubes. I like using bottles over the fill tubes to keep evaporation down. And it allows me to squeeze my watering tubes in when needed. Caps are probably even better. Now that you say it, I can probably drill a hole and put watering tube in. And truly keep any and all mosquitos out. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@handlewithcare999]

Another reason to cap the water tube is to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs down in there. I would also add a saucer underneath to catch the nutrients in the water overflow. Nicely done. I suppose that if all your produce was in a wicking container like this you could take time out for a vacation without worrying about them all shriveling up on you. You might even squeeze 2 jugs inside the bucket for longer times between fill-ups.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Yep …. In south Louisiana those mosquitos try to lay eggs in there. So I keep them covered. Recently I’ve added a drip system to my big whisking containers. And it’s literally hands off growing. I spot check drippers from time to time to ensure they are flowing. But it’s awesome. And in this extreme heat, those plants hadn’t missed a beat compared to others. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@handlewithcare999]

I would like to see a photo of your combo system.@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead

[@teridoyle2120]

Thank you sooo much as I didn’t know anything about this method. You’re a great teacher!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much for the kind words. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised how efficient and easy this method makes container gardening. Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@helensmith9265]

I love this idea & you’re very thorough. I like that u show us close up of what you’re doing. I may have to try this, thanks for sharing this with us gardeners! 22:59

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for the comment. I think you’ll be very impressed by this method. Thanks for watching. Happy Growing

[@rvpark8327]

Best demo of this process Ive seen yet and I have watched 20+👍 simple & ez to follow

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much. Happy Growing

[@rvpark8327]

Thanks😁👍 Im a very excited newbie

[@actualarchive]

Thanks bro, never heard of wicking for some reason. Love finding these smaller authentic channels. Great tutorial!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. You’ll be amazed by the results and less maintenance required. Happy Growing

[@CherrieMcKenzie]

This method is truly genius!! A great way to grow in a small space. Thanks for a GREAT idea and video!!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much for the kind words. And thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@agmood]

Thanks for posting this - like others have said, it's much simpler than some of the other methods out there. Trying two tomato plants in buckets this year and so far the watering system is working really well. (Also nice that they're portable because we just got an unexpected cold snap)

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

That’s my favorite feature. Can move the plants where they need to be, when they need to be. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@SpYucaipaSoCal]

I have a hard time with one tomato in a 5 gallon bucket unless it’s a dwarf variety

[@tinykitchenbigflavor7142]

Ok, so I’m going to start gathering my buckets, for this spring. I normally get mine from Costco/Sams/and Walmart from the bakery department, they use to give them for free now they charge $2.00 which is awesome!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Can’t beat that price. I’ve seen them at big box retailers for up to $8. With a little searching. Can always find a better deal. Great find. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@susanwakefield7858]

Very enjoyable video with excellent info that is easy to understand. You are a great and eloquent teacher. Thank you.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much for the kind words. Happy to help and share this idea with everyone. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@florence775]

I can’t tell you just how helpful this demo was. Some make it sooooo complicated, but this was very easy to understand. Thank you so much.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Awesome to hear. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@florence775]

@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead I get my machine today! 6/15/23

[@emiranda333]

Thank You so much for sharring may you and all your love ones be bless in many ways always. 🙏🏼

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much and thanks for watching and commenting

[@emiranda333]

Thank You for putting up your plant projects for us all to watch. And your welcome regarding the comments.

[@fallmax]

Wow just saw you and I will be following you great information and explaining… I am new to Al this gardening thank you so much great information…

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. More to come. Happy Growing

[@vivianweissmann217]

Hello from Georgia. Just found you, great information. I have to grow everything in containers. Trying to learn as much as I can to grow some food. Thank you for sharing; I look forward to more videos from you. Take care.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for the kind words and the watch with comments. Happy to help. Happy Growing.

[@rosaparra506]

Very well explained! I’m a beginner so this helps a bunch! Thanks for sharing

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy to help.

[@missdevemissdeve8266]

Thanks for your video I am a beginner at wicking and the way you show very well done my friend. ❤❤❤👍👍💯🙏🙏🙏

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@Still-Learning]

Place a wine cork onto a 1/8" dowel, drop the dowel down into the pvc pipe with the cork in the gallon jug...drill a hole in the pvc cap to allow the dowel poke through... place green, yellow, and red tape on the dowel...the cork will lower with the water, indicating the water level by the color of the tape sticking out of the pvc cap. Green at the cap = good to go Yellow at the cap = getting close Red at the cap = time to water

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Yep. I’ve seen that done before. Great way to monitor water level when the containers aren’t opaque like these. These containers show immediately when water is getting low. In south Louisiana. I also rather cover the tubes to keep mosquitos out. And just water more frequently to ensure I’m maintaining the water level. Thanks for watching and commenting. You have me thinking of a hybrid cap that still allows the dowel indicator to show. Happy Growing

[@wj1915]

He’s such a good plant daddy 🥰

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@Tinkerbell31326]

I am in a new home in SC. water table is high so I have to do raised beds. The cost is prohibitive right now. I love this idea. Very economical. Thank you for sharing. I am saving this video to watch again and again to make notes. I am a new subbie.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for the sub, watch, and comment. Enjoy your new grow method. Happy Growing

[@HÅLOFÅN_2002]

Thank you very much for this video! I just found your channel and this will be great for me in Nevada! Putting a cap on top will save me from losing water so quickly! I appreciate your advice and try this out. Thank you from a VERY new container gardener🪴 Anna in Las Vegas, Nevada 🫶🏻

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Happy I could help. Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@evarogers8775]

This is my first exposure to this wicking pot gardening. I am going to give this a try.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Glad I could help to expose you to this unique and highly effective method. I think you’ll be happily surprised on how well the plants do with having water at their own disposal. Good luck. And happy growing

[@carolinehatley3783]

I have my buckets ready for this Spring in NH.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Awesome .... Happy Growing

[@HadassahHaman]

Thank you!!!! I really appreciate the info. LOVED watching you work... Will definitely implement this method in my squash containers. Thank you!❤

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

This method works great for squash. I had great success with keeping vine bores away, as soon as I started planting squash in containers - which led to a longer harvesting season. Happy Growing. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@hespectfully]

When you said, "The tighter, the better, but at the same time it's gotta go in" I felt that 😂 jk love this method. Definitely going to try it for my container garden this year 😎👍👍

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Bahahahaha. Didn’t realize I even said that 🫣. Some of that true personality coming through. Glad you enjoyed and found it useful. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@AlvinMcManus]

Great video. I saw the Rusted Gardeners video on this from 5 years back. Thanks for refreshing this idea.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Much appreciated.

[@carolkennedy516]

Love it. Can’t wait to make mine for my garden. Good idea having the bottles over the pipe ends. We have bad mosquitoes here.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Happy to help. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@lindymae5874]

The plant buckets are sooo cool!!!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@elsiepowers9787]

Good morning from Schulenburg, Texas 😊 I just started following you today 11/29/22 this is one of the video tutorials I've ever seen. We have Planet vegetables in buckets like that and bigger, but didn't use the gallon jug and PVC pipe I thought about the PVC pipe but my husband wouldn't let me do it but I see how you done it and can't wait to try it thank you so much for sharing your ideas ♥

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and subscribing. Happy Growing.

[@melaniehippolyte3536]

Love it's simplicity 🎉

[@cyn4rest]

Thanks! Your video is very helpful.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you very much. Happy Growing

[@melanieromero1342]

Great tips for container gardening.

[@HollyOak]

This is a great idea, the soil can be amended to what the plant likes and not affect other plants. I like this.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

You are spot on. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@drwandarobinsonlee4141]

I love this and hope to use this wicking idea in the spring.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Awesome. Spring is my favorite time to use them. No worrying if you’re over or under watering. The plants simply take what they need. Happy Growing. Thanks for watching.

[@SherieVu]

First time seeing you, and I could instantly identify your accent. I'm Louisiana native, living in South Georgia. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Good ole southern accent. It’s definitely identifiable. Happy Growing

[@doeroftheword262]

I have a large backyard, yet do a lot of planting (flowers and shrubs) in pots. This would be a great way to modify my pots, most of which are PVC type, so that when me and the hubby go away for the weekend, we don't come back to wilted plants. It also saves watering and doing the drip system. i.m.o. Great tutorial 😃

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I have a drip system on some of my larger pots. It’s literally a zero work system except for fertilizing. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@veronicanoll7793]

When I go away for a week, I set my pots into about 6” high plastic or rubber bins from tractor supply, depending on height of pots, then fill with water before leaving. If it rains, the bins fill again. Semi shade while you’re gone if it’s really a hot and dry place. Berry bushes love sitting in water it seems. I’ve got small pecan trees I’m growing for 2 years now and they sit in water while outside. I’ll bring them inside for one more year and plant out next spring . Hopefully all goes well. Good luck in your back yard !

[@dawnarmstrong4441]

Its clear that you really love your plants. Thank you for sharing that info.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@lindag9975]

Thanks! I found this video several months ago and I have 2 of these buckets working in my garden now. Only problem was that the PV pipe cutting tool I bought didn't work too well. But I was still able to cut a PV pipe in half, at an angle. Plants are doing well.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for the feed back. Glad the plants are doing well. Happy Growing

[@inspired9239]

This is great! Thank you so much. I'm a beginner in the learning phase needing all the help I can get. As a beginner, thought I'd start with container gardening first to prove if I can even do this or not. The only thing I would want to add is the copper to 10X my efforts for plumper fruits and vegetables. For those interested, it's called eletroculture gardening.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I’ve read a lot about electro culture. I’ve never done it myself. But plan to look more into in here in the near future. This bucket method will inspire you for sure. It’s definitely an ideal growing method. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@michaelreed-tm8kl]

I just watched your video for the first time - I'm hooked! The buckets are ideal for apartment settings. Growing up with a backyard garden in the 'burbs, I've been scratching my head for ideas on growing veggies in the city around my ranch style apartment. I will be following and watching. MReed, Dayton Ohio

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you MReed. Much appreciated. I think you’ll enjoy the method and the results. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@michaelreed-tm8kl]

@@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead my tech savviness is rudimentary at best, but please tell me how to watch more of your videos, what social media platforms are you connected with?

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

@@michaelreed-tm8kl thanks for inquiring. Currently I’m only on KZbin. The channel is relatively new. Only a few months. But I plan to do a facebook page in the very near future and possibly Instagram as well. I’ll keep you updated. For now, subscribing and hitting the notification bell on KZbin will keep you up to date here. Thank you for the support.

[@ginnyday9224]

Perfect how you show every detail love this idea thank you for sharing this video with us ❤️

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Much appreciated.

[@judykoudssi9850]

New subscriber here. I’m in central Louisiana. I hope I’m not too late getting my container garden growing but definitely going to use your method of wicking. Thank you for the great video.😊

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Welcome neighbor. Never too late for containers. That’s the beauty. Once the heat sets in. These buckets can be easily relocated to a more shaded area. Thanks for the sub. Happy Growing

[@jlm17533]

Great watering technique! I’m definitely going to now use it on all my pots THANK YOU !!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@yvettepatrick1388]

Thank you for being concise yet informative with your video and explanation

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for the kind words. Glad to hear you found it useful. Happy Growing

[@Randy_Smith]

I have a couple of different self watering bucket setups that I use and I'm looking forward to seeing how things progress with your gallon jug system. I have some that are the bucket inside a bucket type and I also have some of the GroBucket inserts. One thing that I noticed that is the same for any container setup is how much a thick layer of mulch helps. I used 2-3 inches of chopped straw on top of all my containers this past year and I was really surprised at how much less frequently my containers needed water. Thanks for sharing the info!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Awesome to hear .... some of the earth boxes and emsco planters I use have covers to help retain moisture much like your mulch is doing. I have wicking tubs with blackberries in them and I always keep a good layer of mulch on them. It definitely helps. Happy growing and thanks for commenting and watching.

[@angelxoxo1010]

What kind of soil are you using?

[@Randy_Smith]

@@angelxoxo1010 I make a mix of about 75-80 percent sifted and pre-moistened peat and make up the rest with perlite and vermiculate. I add fertilizer based on what I'm growing. The mixture of peat, perlite and vermiculate wicks really well. I tried using a mix with compost before and it didn't wick as well and I had issues with roots rotting

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Any loose potting mix will work. But not potting soil. The potting mix has to have a high peat content.

[@friscogirl5400]

Yes I kept waiting to see what kind of mulch he put on top to keep soil from getting on bottom leaves and washing in the rain. Pine straw will work also to help keep moisture in and rain from splashing. Great video! I will have to try putting the gallon jug in there with the holes for watering. I have seen soda bottles in upside down to save on potting mix.

[@bornred8]

Awesome video! I have been watching a lot of these and yours was the best!!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

🫶🏼 much appreciated. Happy Growing

[@karenvanderwall669]

one thing I found out but didn't see in or hear in other videos is....put soil in bucket a few days or week and water so the dirt can settle..my buckets ended up with just a half bucket of soil

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

I've never had that issue but probably because I pack my soil down pretty well. Could also be that most often I'm transferring a plant from typically a 1/2 - 1 gallon pot to the bucket - so that adds additional dirt and space being occupied. For my fruits in wicking containers. I intentionally leave the dirt low, which allows me to add mulch on top the dirt for warmth and moisture retention. And is an additional source of nutrients for the plant. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Growing.

[@MrAloha999]

Amazing...I love videos like this that show step by step...but also show the process works 100%

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing

[@shellievidrine7437]

Gonna give thos a try this spring!

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

You won’t be disappointed. I’m thankful for the ease of moving them for protection during the recent freeze. Happy Growing.

[@andyd7213]

Great video thanks. I've seen many 10 year old videos on here which have really time consuming builds. I stumbled on yours and will try this method for my tomatoes.

[@A.L.B.O.E.SouthernHomestead]

Tomatoes absolutely love this method. Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy Growing