Grow Tomatoes in an Earthbox for Optimal Results and a Plentiful Harvest
Earthboxes are a great way to grow tomatoes, and I can vouch for their effectiveness after 15 years of experience. They are expensive at $35, but they last a long time - mine have been in use for 10-20 years with no signs of damage. This is compared to other plastic containers which tend to get brittle and fall apart within 2-3 years.
You can grow any kind of tomato in an Earthbox and expect outstanding results. The biggest issue you may face is supporting the plants as they grow. My garden typically has 60% heirloom varieties, with cherry, medium sized and large tomatoes also present.
To ensure successful growth, I add a cap full of liquid Miracle Grow right out of the bottle into the reservoir every two weeks. This contains 2.5-3 gallons of water which dilutes it nicely. To prevent blossom end rot, lime pellets are added to the soil.
I find that 8-45-12 'bloom booster' formula works well throughout the season here in Wisconsin where the growing season is only 3 months long (June through August). Last year I planted 19 tomato plants (8 cherries and 6 medium and 5 large) and this year I am doing 13 plants with only 4 cherry varieties and few new large varieties.
For container gardening, I raise my Earthboxes up onto cement blocks for ease of tending in the early season. The frames surrounding them were actually from shipping containers for a screened gazebo - a great way to make use of leftover metal framing! The center containers covered with screening contain lettuce, while coffee grounds help to discourage chipmunks from digging in my containers once the plants become established. I also use a soaker hose to water my Earthboxes. This is great for conserving water and keeping the soil moist without over-watering. I have found that this method works best when combined with mulching around the plants, which helps keep weeds down and keeps moisture in the soil longer.
Earthboxes are an excellent way to grow tomatoes if you don't have much space or want something more manageable than a traditional garden plot. They require minimal maintenance once established, but do need regular watering and fertilizing throughout the season for optimal results. With proper care, your tomato harvest will be plentiful!
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How long have you been growing tomatoes in Earthboxes?
I have been growing tomatoes in Earthboxes for about 15 years.
Are Earthboxes expensive?
Yes, Earthboxes are $35 each, but they last a long time and are worth the cost. Other plastic containers tend to get brittle and fall apart in 2 - 3 years.
What kind of tomatoes can be grown in an Earthbox?
Any kind of tomato can be grown in an Earthbox and get outstanding results. The biggest issue is supporting the plants. I typically grow about 60% heirlooms, but I also have a variety of cherry, medium sized and large tomatoes in my containers.
What type of plant food do you use?
I add a cap full of liquid Miracle Grow right out of the bottle to the reservoir every two weeks. The reservoir contains 2.5 - 3 gallons of water, so that dilutes it nicely. I also add lime pellets to the soil for extra calcium to prevent blossom end rot. For container gardening, I have switched from higher N plant food to the "bloom booster" formula (like 8-45-12).
How many tomato plants do you usually grow?
Last year I planted 19 tomato plants (8 cherries and 6 medium and 5 large, mostly heirloom). This year I am doing 13 plants with only 4 cherry varieties and few new large varieties.
What other vegetables do you grow in your containers?
In addition to tomatoes, I also grow lettuce in my containers.
What do you do to discourage pests like chipmunks?
To discourage chipmunks, I spread coffee grounds around my containers once my plants are well established. I also use a product called "Chipmunk Away" which is a natural repellent made from garlic and other ingredients.
How often do you water your plants?
I water my plants every day, but I check the soil first to make sure it's not too wet. If it is, I wait until the next day. I also add liquid plant food to the reservoir every two weeks.
What kind of soil do you use in your Earthboxes?
I use a combination of potting soil, compost, and perlite for my containers. This helps keep the soil light and airy so that the roots can breathe and get plenty of oxygen.
Do you have any tips for growing tomatoes in Earthboxes?
Yes! Here are some tips for growing tomatoes in Earthboxes: 1) Make sure to provide adequate support for your tomato plants; 2) Add lime pellets to the soil to prevent blossom end rot; 3) Water your plants daily, but check the soil first to make sure it's not too wet; 4) Use a combination of potting soil, compost, and perlite for your containers; 5) Spread coffee grounds around your containers once your plants are well established; 6) Add liquid plant food to the reservoir every two weeks; 7) Use a natural repellent like Chipmunk Away to discourage pests.