I want the roots to extend into the Earth, but I don’t want moles and armadillos ruining my morning. Solution: the barrel planter. I fit it with drain holes that allow the roots to extend into the Earth, and it allows the worms to enter the barrel. Excess water from the barrel is absorbed by adjacent plants. When the barrel starts to run dry, a storage reservoir below the dirt feeds the plants via two large wicks. I use the lid to collect rainwater and as a cover during spring freezes and through the winter season. Additionally, I suspend the lid above the barrel during the heat of the Missouri summers and surround the barrel with an insulator, like hay or mulch. If done correctly, this tiny barrel planter can provide greens all year long. The spinach, in the photo, survived the entire winter.
Carved Canoe LLC – Paul Marak – The Complete Offgrid Tiny Home Life