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General discussion regarding the techniques and methods used to successfully grow tomato plants in containers.

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Old April 8, 2014   #1
Mick7607
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Default Container Question

I'm getting ready to set up my 15 gal containers and will be using a homemade peat/compost/perlite mix. The weep holes in these tree nursery containers are about 1" in diameter. I've read that I shouldn't put gravel or broken pottery shards in the bottom of my container. With the frequent waterings that will be necessary here in the heat of South Carolina summers, how do I keep the mix from running out of these large drainage holes?
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Old April 8, 2014   #2
Doug9345
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The reason to not fill the bottom of the container with rocks or whatever is that it doesn't end up improving drainage but instead makes the pot act more like a self watering container. Make sure water every you use to cover the hole you don't end up plugging it so that the pot can't drain.
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Old April 8, 2014   #3
rags57078
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paper towel or news paper over the holes works great
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Old April 8, 2014   #4
Mick7607
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Rags, wouldn't that deteriorate over time, especially since its going to stay wet/damp most of the time?

What about lining the bottom with an old cotton t shirt? Cut it in half so its only one ply to allow drainage.
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Old April 8, 2014   #5
Sun City Linda
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A small piece of screen or netting works great.
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Old April 8, 2014   #6
rags57078
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mick7607 View Post
Rags, wouldn't that deteriorate over time, especially since its going to stay wet/damp most of the time?

What about lining the bottom with an old cotton t shirt? Cut it in half so its only one ply to allow drainage.
the T-shirt will rot also , screen would be a better choice , Linda hit it on the head
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