Sub-Irrigated Planters

Hey friends,

 

I’ve been thinking about how satisfying it is to grow my own food, even with the limited space many of us have around our yards.

 

Plants really only need four things to thrive: sunlight, nutrients, water, and oxygen around their roots to breathe. A traditional garden handles this naturally, but when you don’t have room for one, a pail full of soil just doesn’t cut it. That’s the challenge I’ve been tackling for the past couple of years with Sub-Irrigated Planters (SIPs).

 

For two years, I’ve been experimenting with SIPs—testing ideas, learning from others, and measuring my results all summer. Honestly, I’m obsessed. These planters make growing veggies so much easier:

• They solve plants’ basic needs by balancing water, nutrients, and oxygen.

• They’re perfect for small spaces with just the right amount of sun.

• They simplify watering, so you can spend more time enjoying your plants.

 

Most importantly, they’re straightforward once set up. You only need to water every couple of days, you can focus on nurturing your plants, and they’re built to last for many, many seasons.

 

I’m all about practicality, which is why I keep the bins as they are—simple and functional. But they’re not limited to just being bins! If you want something that blends in better with your space, I’d be happy to provide ideas for customisation.

 

This would be a cooperative process. I can help you plan your planters ahead of delivery or installation. Whether it’s figuring out what to grow, how to arrange the planters in your space, or customizing the design, I’ll work with you to make sure it’s exactly what you need before building them.

 

Growing your own food is something special. It’s great for mental health, builds independence, and honestly, it’s just fun. I’ve found that on the days I get my hands dirty in the garden, I feel better. Watching a seed you planted turn into dinner? That’s a kind of magic that never gets old.

 

But here’s the thing: I want everyone to experience this joy, but it’s so cost-prohibitive right now. You’re either stuck with planters that are too small, don’t balance oxygen and water, or they cost $340 for a plastic unit.

 

That’s why I’m thinking about offering what I’ve already built 12 of for myself: simple, practical planter boxes that solve these problems.

 

Here’s the gist:

• ~$150 per large planter

• Holds 2 tomatoes, 3 peppers, or other veggie combos

• Built with durable materials designed to last multiple seasons—I personally guarantee these planters will work for you, or I’ll give you a full refund, no questions asked.

• I’d also be happy to deliver locally and help set it up for a small additional fee.

 

Would this be something you’d use? Let me know—I’d love to gauge interest for the spring and see how I can help others grow their own food!

 

P.S. Check out the photo of one of my SIPs with some thriving tomatoes 🌱. If you’re interested in a DIY option, I’d be happy to teach you how to make your own—either one-on-one or in a group workshop (free of charge).

 

Feel free to share this with friends or family who might also want to grow their own food. Thanks for reading—let’s grow some food! 🌱