We have built some self watering planters before, and I always have fun with these. It is probably because I know how much time they can save you. I found an even better and easier design today. So I will be making my first diy alaska grow bucket, later on today.

Very simple design, the main components are easy to find and affordable. For example, you can get the plastic gallons for free from bakeries and restaurants, just make sure they are the Type 2 HDPE symbol on the bottom. This makes them suitable for growing plants in them. I also love that by just adding a float valve system, you can connect a few of these grow buckets together using one water reservoir, no water pump is needed.

---------------------- Advertisement ----------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Here’s What You’ll Need:

plastic 5 gallon bucket
fabric shopping bag
plastic colander
1/2″ rubber grommet
sphagnum peat
perlite
vermiculite
dolomitic limestone
3/4″ step drill bit
handheld drill
natural fertilizer
fill hose
garbage bag
rubber band
barbed hose fitting
heavy shears (optional)

The first thing you want to do is drill holes in the side of the plastic gallon, that will provide air to the root system. Use the drill and start from about 6 inches from the bottom, drilling as many holes as possible. Drill one more hole, at the very bottom where your fill hose will be attached to the grow system.

Insert the rubber grommet into the bottom hole, and insert the barbed hose fitting into it to allow for a watertight fit. The plastic colander goes into the bottom of the plastic bucket. Remove the handles of the shopping bag and insert it into the bucket too.

Fill the bottom with water, and start adding the grow mix. Don’t forget to add slow release fertilizer at the bottom of the bucket. Each additional layer of grow mix should be watered until you get to the top, where an additional layer of fertilizer is added.

The last thing you have to do, is cover the top with black plastic to reduce evaporation. When ready cut a slit in the center of the plastic sheet, and plant your seedling through that slit. Keep your grow basket’s water supply flowing through the bottom. There you have your very own alaska grow basket. 🙂

You can follow step by step instructions on Alaska Grow Buckets, here…