Last Updated on August 16, 2023 by Real Men Sow
The soil in which to grow plants is an essential part of a greenhouse. Growing in grow bags is an option, however, it would be difficult to establish a watering system for growing bag plants. Additionally, grow bags may not give you the adequate space to grow plants in. Therefore, a wicking bed for greenhouse is the best option!
Why Should You Try A Wicking Bed for Greenhouse
DIY wicking beds are a great way to make a self-watering raised garden bed. It is filled with soil and water from the plants from the bottom. A wicking bed for greenhouse can be made as small as one square foot, or as large as you like. It is waterproof and has a reservoir of water at its bottom. Water is drawn upwards through the soil or roots to the surface of your bed.
Wicking beds can be used for container gardening, indoors or out, and.be used in greenhouses where there is not enough soil. It can also be used to create an outdoor garden, if the garden bed is close to your house. The foundation is kept dry and the plants are well-watered.
Wicking beds can also be great for those who are unable to water raised beds or containers regularly. Self-watering beds can keep the soil moist longer than traditional methods. It has its limitations.
Building A Wicking Bed
A wicking bed’s core components are a raised bed with a waterproof liner or waterproof material. An overflow pipe of approximately 8 inches is required from its bottom. A watering inlet with holes at its bottom is also required to water the bed.
You will then need to use scoria, rocks, or gravel in a larger bed. Then, in a smaller container, a few pots are sufficient. You can also cover the scoria with shade fabric or weed control. Fill the bed with a good soil mixture. Continue reading below.
Steps
The wicking bed was built for year-round growth in cold climates. Therefore, it would need insulation.
- Add Styrofoam to the bed to insulate it.
- Line construction plastic on the bed to hold off leakage.
- Add rocks to help keep things in place.
- Place a weed control fabric between the soil and rocks.
- Add the soil, the best mix for your wicking bed would be 1/3 compost, 1/3 vermiculite and 1/3 peat moss.
After completing the following steps, you can then plant what you want in your greenhouse.
