Tomatoville® Gardening Forums - View Single Post - The New EarthTainer III "Convertible" Guide Now Available

Tchamp77 · April 20, 2015

Dear Raybo,
Long-time fan and user of Earth Tainers. I have a question on the covering the top of the tainers with plastic. I think this is described in the instructions as a way to prevent moisture from escaping. I was wondering if you've ever tried a loose mulch instead - or even weed block fabric - as a trade-off, given the importance of getting air to the root systems. I mean, you talk a lot about the loose mix allowing the root system to breathe, yet, we're putting a plastic barrier right over the top, so it would seem a bit contradictory. Thoughts?
Thanks
Tom C.

April 20, 2015	#262
Tchamp77 Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2014 Location: NJ Posts: 5	Moisture buffer vs. providing room to breathe Dear Raybo, Long-time fan and user of Earth Tainers. I have a question on the covering the top of the tainers with plastic. I think this is described in the instructions as a way to prevent moisture from escaping. I was wondering if you've ever tried a loose mulch instead - or even weed block fabric - as a trade-off, given the importance of getting air to the root systems. I mean, you talk a lot about the loose mix allowing the root system to breathe, yet, we're putting a plastic barrier right over the top, so it would seem a bit contradictory. Thoughts? Thanks Tom C.