Written by Heather Addis on September 25, 2020.
Keep your herbs or small vegetables safe from nibbling animals by growing them up instead of out. With a few materials, create a great alternative to save money on planters and more space in your outdoor living area.
Materials:
Hanging pocket shoe organizer
Pole and attachments (curtain pole or pipe fittings, screws)
Strong metal, hanging hooks
Compost
Selection of plants or seeds
Step 1: Attach Pole
Attach a strong pole (or curtain rod) with metal fittings to a permanent fixture such as a shed or fence. Be sure the check the length of the organizer prior to installing the pole to ensure the bottom of the organizer is at least 2’ off the ground.
Step 2: Attach Hanging Organizer
Use strong hooks to attach the organizer to the pole. Most shoe organizers come with holes at the top to easily hang on a door. Keep in mind, the hooks must be strong enough to support the weight of the compost, plants and water.
Step 3: Test Drainage
Pour water into the pockets of the organizer to check the drainage. If the pockets don't drain, make a few small holes in each of the pockets to allow for easy drainage.
Step 4: Fill Each Pocket with Compost
Add a moisture retaining compost to each pocket. Fill to 1" below the rim of the pocket to ensure water does not pour out over the rim.
Step 5: Add Plants or Seeds
Plant herbs and small vegetables in each pocket. A few suggestions are thyme, sorrel, chives, salad mixed leaf, mustard, spinach and minibel tomatoes. However, the options are limitless!
Source: https://www.instructables.com/id/VERTICAL-VEGETABLES-quotGrow-upquot-in-a-smal/
