Grow Tomatoes Easily in an Earthbox - It's Self-Watering and Long Lasting!
Earthboxes are a great way to grow tomatoes. They are expensive but last for many years and can accommodate any type of tomato plant. To get the best results, it is important to use the right fertilizer, such as liquid Miracle Grow or a bloom booster formula. It is also important to provide adequate support for the plants, as well as protection from pests and extreme weather conditions. With proper care, you can expect an abundance of tomatoes that will last you through the season.
Earthboxes are essentially large plastic containers with a reservoir at the bottom. The reservoir is filled with water and fertilizer, which helps to keep the soil moist and nourished. The top of the box is filled with soil and compost, and then the tomato plants are planted in the soil. The sides of the box are covered with a mesh material that allows air to circulate while keeping out pests.
The Earthbox system is designed to be self-watering, so you don't have to worry about watering your tomatoes every day. The reservoir at the bottom of the box will slowly release water into the soil as needed. You can also add additional water if necessary. It is important to check the moisture level of the soil regularly, as too much or too little water can cause problems for your tomato plants.
When planting tomatoes in an Earthbox, it is important to choose varieties that are suitable for container gardening. Some varieties may not do well in containers, so it is best to research which ones will work best for your particular climate and conditions. Once you have chosen your variety, you can begin planting your tomatoes in the Earthbox. Make sure to space them evenly and provide adequate support for each plant.
Finally, it is important to protect your tomato plants from extreme weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rains. If possible, move your Earthboxes indoors during periods of inclement weather. This will help ensure that your tomatoes get all the nutrients they need without being damaged by harsh weather conditions.
Earthboxes are an excellent way to grow tomatoes in a container garden. With proper care and maintenance, you can expect an abundance of delicious tomatoes that will last you through the season. So why not give it a try?
What are Earthboxes?
Earthboxes are plastic containers designed for growing vegetables, particularly tomatoes. They are expensive ($35) but they last a long time and can be used to grow any kind of tomato. The reservoir contains 2.5 - 3 gallons of water and the soil should be supplemented with lime pellets to prevent blossom end rot.
What type of fertilizer do you use in an Earthbox?
I typically use a liquid plant food, such as Miracle Grow, added to the reservoir every two weeks. For container gardening, I have switched from higher N plant food to the "bloom booster" formula (like 8-45-12). Feeding weekly instead of every two weeks also helps promote growth.
How do you support the plants in an Earthbox?
I typically grow about 60% heirlooms and use a staking system on my Earthboxes, but have found the trellising net to be pretty useless. Instead, I insert a 6' stake beside each plant that is tied to the top of the staking system and clip and "tidy" the tomatoes up vertically keeping 2-3 growth stems.
How do you protect your plants from pests?
Coffee grounds tend to discourage chipmunks that like to dig in my containers. I also cover the outside of the EBs so the intense sun does not make the mix and reservoir too warm. This makes everything look really crappy but it really does work. I use empty bags of Promix which really looks bad and also cut green indoor / outdoor carpet with scissors to fit over the EB's.
When does your season end?
My season usually ends when the weather varies too much from day to night, or when it gets too cold or frosty. In colder climates, season is usually done because weather gets too cold or frosty. In warmer climates, season is usually done when nights get too warm and pests become more prevalent.