GARDENING ON A SHOESTRING

Pot Liners

When I'm using those nursery pots for cuttings, etc, to keep the soil from pushing out the GIANT holes at the bottom, I use (dollar store has them cheap) the large coffee filters. What I usually do is dip the pot in water or sprinkle a little water in bottom to dampen the pot and then spread the filter (it will absorb the wetness and shape to the pot). It will then "stick" to the pot and soil won't escape down between pot and the filter. Lets excess water flow right through, but not the soil. Judy (Texas)

Great 'recycled' plant ties

I learned years ago from an older gentleman (who could take a stick and make it grow) to save pantyhose and knee highs, after they've run, to use as plant ties. They stretch and give, so won't cut or choke your plants stems. Great way to recycle them. I was also told (I always use them to stake tomatoes) that when it is lightening, the static electricity "clings" to them and makes your tomatoes really grow (don't know how true it is). I cut the legs up into shorter sections to use on the pantyhose.
Judy (Texas)

Thanks, Judy!  That is awesome advice.  I recently heard that when it lightnings, it is great for the plants, because it causes nitrates to be released.  Then, when it rains, all of those come down on our plants.  So, it makes sense about the pantyhose, if they attract the static electricity, then maybe more nitrates are released?!  Who knows? Vickie (Texas)

Plant markers

In addition to miniblind slats and popsicle sticks, I use the white plastic knives (you get with takeout, fastfood and in the picnic sets). I use a fine tipped black paint pen (available at Michael's & Hobby Lobby) to write on the blade part of them, then just shove 'em in the soil. The paint stays on for a long time.
Judy (Texas)

Okay, this is what i heard, Home Depot sells aluminum 1" wire sheet.  Can't explain it other than like the rolling bubble gum tape.  if you cut his into 3" pieces and fold in half, pop a hole in one end and run a thin wire around it, you can then attach it to the thick stem of the plant.  That is after you use a ball point pen to "engrave" info onto it.  The info will never wash off or go away (This is like a cheaper version of a dog tag) Chris

How to make an earth box 

For Patio Gardens  Penny (Florida)