Hi – Julien here!
In the last issue, we discussed why potting mix is an excellent growing medium for vegetables. It’s well-drained, retains moisture, and has fewer issues with soil-borne diseases.
However, filling larger containers using only potting mix can be costly.
So today, I’m going to:
- Explain how to fill large containers, drawing from a technique called HügelKultur.
- And discuss how to keep “worms” away from your cabbages.
Now, to kick things off, let’s take a look at an:
🌿 Easy Way To Fill Large Containers For Planting
Before we begin, you must ensure that your container has enough drainage holes to allow water and air to flow freely. Once you’re sure of this, it’s time for:
Step 1: Add a layer of dry logs and branches.
Fill about ⅓ of the container with large organic materials such as dried logs, sticks, branches, and charcoal.
These materials take up a lot of space while maintaining enough passages for air and water flow.
Step 2: Add a layer of dried leaves and twigs
Next, cover the logs with dried or partially decomposed leaves and twigs.
This can be about two to three inches thick and might also include some green leaves and manure.
Step 3: Add compost and worms
Then add an inch or two of well-rotted Compost, preferably one that has earthworms in it.
Water this layer lightly to ensure it and the underlying materials receive some moisture, before moving to:
Step 4: Add the potting soil
Pour the potting soil of your choice into the container.
This layer should be between 6 to 12 inches deep, depending on the depth of the container.
By filling the container in this way, you will use less potting soil. Also, it creates an ideal home for earthworms and other creatures as the material breaks down.
Now, let’s take a look at the:
📬 Question Of The Week
This week’s question comes from Richard on Facebook, who writes:
“Hey Julien, I’ve been trying to grow cabbages for a while, but there are some worms that keep destroying my plants. What can I do about them? – Richard, AG
Hi Richard, dealing with worms and caterpillars can be frustrating, once they establish themselves.
So, the easiest way to control them in the garden is to not allow them to get there in the first place.
You can do this by using an insect net or other physical barrier.
These will prevent butterflies, moths, and other insects from laying eggs on the leaves, while allowing light, air, and water to flow freely.
You don’t have to get fancy, you can use a mosquito net, row covers, or insect mesh for a larger area.
Just ensure you cover your cabbages and other plants in the same family as soon as you plant them.
Do you have a gardening question you’d like to share? Feel free to Ask It Here…
I’m looking forward to hearing from you. Talk about sharing, let’s check out our:
📸 Garden Spotlight
This week, we’re featuring some newly transplanted cabbage seedlings. I like to grow them to this size before transplanting them to larger containers outside.
I’d love to see what’s happening in your garden…
Send your photos for a chance to be featured in next week’s spotlight.
Now, it’s finally time to check out the new:
🌐 Community Board!
It’s been a hectic week trying to sort out the website’s design before the rainy season begins. So far…
🌱 I’ve harvested about 18 heads of lettuce…
And delivered them to friends and family. I’ve already sown new seeds, so the next batch should be ready soon.
📢 Completed the new design for the gardening guide
It now looks more like a booklet, with examples and links to more detailed tutorials and articles. Take a look at it here and tell me what you think. And finally…
📺 We started to clear the river of fallen trees…
The rainy season is here, so I took up my axe for the first time in a while. My form leaves a lot to be desired, but I’m getting the job done. You can check out the video on Facebook. (Watch Video)
📧 Did I Miss Anything?
Send me a message with any topic, photo or question you’d like to see featured in future issues.
And remember, my newsletter goes out every Friday morning.
Until next week, take care, stay safe, and keep growing!