Do I have to worry about weeds growing in my EarthBox?
No! As long as you use the provided mulch cover, the growing media in the EarthBox is covered so weeds don’t even have a chance to start. There’s never any need to pull weeds or use herbicides.
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Planting & Growing Info
Is it correct to place only 2 tomato plants in the EarthBox?
Yes. Through years of experimentation, we have developed the optimal number and arrangement of each type of plant. Please refer to our Plant Placement Charts for a complete list.
How do you water plants in an EarthBox?
You simply put water in the included fill tube until water comes out the bottom overflow drain. You can’t over-water, so don’t try to regulate the moisture level in the growing media. Just keep the reservoir filled. When the plants are small, add wat
I think my plants are getting too much/too little water. Can I manually adjust the watering?
No. The EarthBox has been designed so that you can’t over-water and the only way to under-water is to let the water reservoir run dry. Remember, plants are taking the exact amount of water they need from the reservoir…no more and no less. Resist the
What time of day should I water my garden?
Water the EarthBox regularly when it is convenient for you. Just remember to never let the reservoir run dry.
What should I do if I have poor soil in my area?
Since the EarthBox uses growing media available at any garden center, soil conditions in your area mean nothing. In fact, many people have tremendous EarthBox gardens on their patios, balconies, and decks.
What is dolomite & when should it be used?
Dolomite is a source of calcium and magnesium and can be used for any plant, although it is critical for healthy tomatoes and other “seeded” vegetables, in general. Dolomite should be used for all “seeded” vegetables since they need a lot of calcium
What kind of potting mix/soil (growing media) should I use?
We have recommended several brands that will work best, but almost any brand of peat-based growing media for containers or hanging plants should work. You’ll need 2 cubic feet (60 dry quarts) per EarthBox Original or EarthBox Root & Veg and 1 cubic f
How many times can I replant / reuse the growing media?
We recommend reusing the same growing media over and over, up to 8-10 growing seasons. The reason for this is: 1) it’s a lot easier to leave it in place, and 2) it’s better for your plants NOT changing it each year. The continual addition of dolomite
What kind and how much fertilizer does the EarthBox need?
Each time you plant in the EarthBox, use 1 pound (roughly 2 cups) of a dry, granular fertilizer or plant food for vegetables (use 1.5-2 pounds / 3-4 cups if the fertilizer is organic). Note for the EarthBox Junior, you need to use half those amounts.
Can I purchase supplies like fertilizer, dolomite, and growing media at a garden center?
Yes. The Dealer Locator has information on all EarthBox registered retailers, but if your local garden center does not carry the EarthBox, please let us know.
How do I know when to fertilize my plants?
With the EarthBox system you fertilize only one time per growing season; when you first set it up. Use 1 pound (about 2 cups) of dry, granular fertilizer for vegetables (1.5-2 pounds / 3-4 cups if using organic fertilizer), and the plants will have j
Can I use organic fertilizer?
Absolutely! Many EarthBox gardeners prefer growing their plants organically. We have recommended several brands of dry, granular organic fertilizers that can be used. You'll want to use 1.5-2 lbs. (roughly 3 cups) of organic fertilizer, in the form o
Can I use liquid fertilizer or fertilizers that are mixed with water?
Years of scientific research have gone into determining the type, quantity and placement of fertilizer to maximize plant health and production. Liquid fertilizers defeat the purpose of the EarthBox system, as nutrients are not provided on a constant
Can I use Osmocote or other time-release fertilizers for the fertilizer strip?
No. Time-release, or "coated" fertilizers should not be used. Growing Media that already contains fertilizer is OK to use, but it does not replace the fertilizer strip. You should still add the fertilizer strip as you set-up your EarthBox.
What type of grow light is best for my indoor growing needs?
Metal halide lights produce a strong output of the blue spectrum, which will result in strong plant growth. It is the best type of light to be used as a primary light source (if little or no natural sunlight is available).
Can I plant different crops or mix varieties in the same box?
Yes, planting two different crops (i.e. companion planting) or mixing varieties (e.g. different pepper types) are both possible in the EarthBox Original. Popular combinations include:. To find out more about which plants and vegetables can be mixed t
What can I do if beetles, gnats, or tiny black bugs are on and near my plants?
Spray with an all-purpose natural insecticide solution, which has been approved for organic gardening, and will also help treat other pests like aphids, cabbageworms, leaf miners, fungus gnats, and fruit flies. To learn more about both harmful and be
What can I do if hornworms or other chewing worms are on and near my plants?
Spray with BT (Bacillus Thuringiensis), a very good bacterial solution for caterpillars and other types of chewing worms. Once ingested by the pest, the bacteria will kill the caterpillar. This is not a chemical and will do no harm if sprayed on the
Can I remove the mulch cover once the plants have started growing?
No, you should never remove the cover until your growing season is finished and you’re ready to replant. The EarthBox mulch cover is an integral part of the EarthBox gardening system. The cover helps to keep your growing media moist; it keeps rain fr
Is it necessary to remove the growing media to prevent cracking the container during the winter?
No. To prepare your EarthBox and store it for winter, we recommend you remove the old plants, mulch cover, and fertilizer. Place a new mulch cover on your EarthBox and drain the remaining water from the reservoir by tipping the EarthBox towards the o
My pet swallowed fertilizer, dolomite, or veggie boost (calcium nitrate), what should I do?
Our fertilizers, dolomite, and Tomato & Veggie Boost (calcium nitrate) are not intended for human or animal consumption. Consult a physician if swallowed. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Children should be supervised by an adult when using th
Should I do anything special for tomato plants?
Most varieties require a higher pH level of growing media. Simply mix 1 pound of dolomite in the top 2-3 inches of growing media (before adding the fertilizer strip) to raise the pH. The EarthBox will do the rest.
What if I need support stakes for my plants?
We offer an optional Staking System that integrates with the EarthBox Original container. This eliminates the need for awkward wire plant cages or trellises. We recommend the Staking System for any tall and vining crops, such as:. Tip: The Staking Sy
How can I prevent splitting tomatoes?
Tomatoes will split when (1) there is a lot of heat and alternating rain or (2) if very dry weather is followed by days of rainfall. It is really caused by the drastic change in the amount of water in the fruit along with the heat. You can cover your
What can I do to prevent black spots (BER) on the bottom of my tomatoes?
The black on the bottom of your tomatoes is called Blossom End Rot (BER). It is caused by a lack of calcium and other ingredients in the growing media. Adding 1 pound of Dolomite to the growing media before planting (as in the instructions) can help
Can I grow cannabis (marijuana) in an EarthBox?
Yes, you can grow cannabis / marijuana in any of our EarthBoxes and get great hydroponic results. The EarthBox is a SIP (sub-irrigated planter) that helps growers avoid overwatering, simplify growing, etc. For more specifics, including guides and nut
Can I use compost in my growing media?
No, we do not recommend using compost in your potting mix. This is because particles can fall through the aeration screen and prevent the wicking system from working properly. Our recommended growing media expands when wet to allow the entire system
Should I use additives to enhance the fertilizer strip?
We do not recommend using anything other than a strip of dry fertilizer, except for adding calcium nitrate if you're growing Nightshade crops like tomatoes. We have found our planting instructions work best and provide sufficient plant food nutrients
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
To help prevent and control mosquitoes around the EarthBox, we recommend Mosquito Dunks. That product is food safe and non-toxic to humans, pets, and beneficial insects. Dropping a quarter tablet down the water fill tube every two weeks should allevi
Can I grow flowers in the EarthBox?
Yes! You can grow annual flowers (impatiens, petunias, zinnias, sunflowers, marigolds, etc.) in the EarthBox from seeds or seedlings. We recommend that you use our Natural 8-3-5 fertilizer (or similar) for best results. When you plant bulbs in an Ear
Can the same crop be replanted / grown in the same box as year before?
Yes, you can replant and grow the same crops like tomatoes season after season, year after year, in the same EarthBox. You simply need to follow our replanting instructions, which you can find on our Instruction Manuals page. Or if you prefer, you ca
Can I grow blueberries in an EarthBox?
Yes, you can grow blueberries in an EarthBox. We recommend the EarthBox Root & Veg since its depth is more conducive to the plant. When planting, you should forgo using dolomite since blueberries thrive in soil that is more on the acidic side. Use a
What's the difference between the standard 7-7-7 & natural 8-3-5 fertilizer?
Our Standard 7-7-7 Fertilizer is great for all plants, but is highly recommended for growing all fruiting and root crops such as:. Our Natural 8-3-5 Fertilizer is recommended for only growing leafy and cruciferous vegetables and herbs such as:. You c
How do I keep squirrels, deer, birds, rabbits, insects, etc. from eating my plants?
We sell Protective Netting that can help keep birds and insects away from your EarthBox garden. The netting can also help prevent other pests like squirrels, rabbits, deer, rodents/rats, etc. from getting into the box in the short term; however, plea
Is the Natural 8-3-5 fertilizer organic?
The EarthBox Natural 8-3-5 Plant Food / Fertilizer is derived from meat and bone meal, feather meal, sulfate of potash, and dolomite lime. When available, USDA-certified organic by-products may be used in the manufacturing of this fertilizer, but tha
Why are my plants wilting or dying?
Unfortunately, your plants may experience a disease that could cause the leaves to wilt, turn yellow, etc. and the plant to be lost. Or maybe the plant has some other common issue like Blossom End Rot or splitting. Please refer to our Common Plant Pr
Can I grow blackberries in an EarthBox?
Yes, you can grow blackberries in an EarthBox. We recommend growing them in the EarthBox Original. If you choose a thornless trailing type of blackberry plant, it will need to be trellised, which our 7’ Staking System can take care of. If you opt for
Can I plant & start from seeds in an EarthBox?
Yes, though directly sowing seeds in an EarthBox should only be done with seeds that germinate quickly, such as cucumbers, squash, corn, beans, peas, lettuce, etc. The planting instructions are the same whether you're starting from seeds or seedlings
Can I use an EarthBox in a greenhouse?
Yes, you can use an EarthBox inside a greenhouse. There are 2 things to keep in mind:. 1. Depending how hot it gets inside the greenhouse, you'll either want the white side of the mulch cover facing up, or potentially no cover at all. 2. Depending on