I bought my first earth box a few years ago. Since then i have planted it several times and I’m always amazed at the speed at which things grow, and the crop yield from vegetables, tomatoes and peppers mainly. The Earth Box is a hybrid hydroponic system, utilizing both soil, and an undersoil water resevoir. It is always watered from a tube inserted into the water resevoir. The results always amaze me.
I’ve often wondered why the earth box folk, never modified or enhanced their original creation. So I decided to try some experiments with some inexpensive plastic pots, within pots.
Wow.. i was on to something! Results were totally amazing. Of course I now WISH I’d documented it with some pictures, but alas, i didn’t have the foresight to forsee this moment. However I am going to start documenting my current earth box crop:fast growing Romaine lettuce (planted 10 days Ago.)
Home Depot, supplied the romaine, tiny ones in the 6 up container. They are considerably more robust, 10 days later, very fragile when i planted them. They’ve actually withstood quite a bit of rain and all that comes with it, and hardened up nicely.
Here is a first of shot so you get the gist of it.
The tall plant in the left back is a jalapeno pepper plant, planted at the same time. I figured it could stay through a few lettuce crops. I plan to photo the box every 7 days to document its growth speed so stay tuned!
Gardening in Florida! Fall, is really our best growing season. I anticipate it as much as i anticipate spring. So many garden plants are burdened by the heat at this time of year, and a lot we are saying good bye too till they surprise us next spring.. I will miss my caladiums!
I’m dying to know other earth box fans out there. And I’d love to share my earthbox variation with you! In the mean time while i’m setting up the experiment, you can follow the real earth box “Project Lettuce” to see this concept work! We’ve only got the wire frame (from my summer tomatoes) to measure by at the moment, but i shall fix that!
Looking forward to getting to know some new friends that love plants and gardening. I occasionally post gardening articles Here
3 replies on “Ever Tried an Earth Box?”
Ive used the growbox. Its a good product at a good price. I dont know where there made but they are made in the USA.
Actually “T”.. I was NOT aware of the “Grow Box.” I’m pleased to make its aquaintance though! Looks similar, but with some pretty strategic changes, like no water tube. It is a lot less expensive as well! Thanks for the heads up! Are they made in St Pete?
Have an interesting day!
Beclecto
I was reading your post and just wanted to see if you’ve heard of the Grow Box? I’ve tried it and I’ve had so much success. I had Spanish Onions, Cucumbers, Butternut Squash and Beets so far this summer! It’s actually a bit better and a whole lot less expensive! They hold about a gallon and a half more water. Check it out at http://www.agardenpatch.com
Happy Gardening!