Plant herbs in smaller Rubbermaid tubs and vegetables in the company's larger tubs.
Rubbermaid tubs are an inexpensive alternative to expensive pots and growing systems and are deep enough to use for vegetables. The challenge in using them, though, is providing adequate drainage. Without drainage holes, water stays in the containers, causing your plants' roots to rot. Choose the right size tub for your gardening project; if you plan to grow several vegetables, including root vegetables or tomato plants, you'll need at least a 4-gallon size container. Use 1- or 2-gallon tubs for herbs, flowers and plants. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Drill 1/2-inch diameter holes around the sides of the tub, 1/4 inch from the bottom. Space them 3 inches apart. Although most pots have holes in the bottom, holes in the side provide the best drainage, according to Texas A & M University. Drill holes on the bottom of the tub if you find the holes on the sides aesthetically unappealing.
2. Place 1/4-inch layer of gravel in the bottom of the tub. Fill the tub with potting soil to within 1 inch of the top. Use a lightweight potting medium, rather than garden soil, which is too heavy for containers.
3. Plant seeds and seedlings as desired, spacing them according to their package directions. Water the soil until it is evenly moist, but not soggy.
4. Water plants grown in Rubbermaid tubs more frequently than those grown in-ground. The plastic may heat up excessively during the summer, burning plants. Move plants to a shaded location if the tub feels warm to the touch.
5. Fertilize plants monthly with a liquid fertilizer. Nutrients leach quickly out of soils in containers.
Tags: Rubbermaid tubs, holes bottom
