Photo by author
Bucket gardens are a clever alternative to growing an extra row for the hungry. Bucket gardens are an annual event in my home town. Groups get together and plant 5 gallon buckets with tomatoes surrounded by various vegetables and herbs. Bucket gardens are distributed to the hungry.
Bucket gardens differ from planting a row. They give the hungry an opportunity to grow their own vegetables. These 5 gallon buckets give recipients food as well as a sense of accomplishment as they nurture their growing gardens.
Bucket gardens can be planted with any number of vegetables and herbs. Be sure to punch several drainage holes in the bottom of bucket gardens prior to adding soil. Soil with timed release fertilizer is best for bucket gardens. The recipient may not have financial means to purchase fertilizer.
Bucket gardens are traditionally started by planting a tomato in the center of the bucket. Be sure to bury the tomato plant about 2/3 of the way so that only the top leaves are above ground. For added fertilizer, place a whole uncooked unbroken egg under the planted tomato.
Bucket gardens with tomato centers can now be planted with other vegetables and herbs around the tomato. Plant short root vegetables such as lettuce, radishes and green onions. Basil is very compatible with tomato plants as well.
Bucket gardens are a great way to help the community. It's not too late to plant bucket gardens. Many garden centers have unsold tomato plants available at discount prices. Vegetables like lettuce and radishes grow rapidly and will produce into the summer when replanted.
Bucket gardens can be re-planted throughout the season with quick growing veggies as well. Consider giving seed packets and instructions with the bucket gardens. Some seeds may even be able to be used next year. Most herbs are perennial and will not need re-planting.
Comments
I lke this idea a great deal - both for the homeless, and for on patios and apartment dwellers. And I didn;t know about the egg! Thanks!
What an awesome idea! This makes a generous gift go even further, which is very important when helping people in such an unfortunate situation.
Cool egg tip! Does the egg crack by the weight of the tomatoes once they grow? What a wonderful community you must live in where people not only garden but think of others as well.
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