Courtyard SQF placement and lining boxes?

blue_elle 4/7/2011, 9:29 pm

We have a small courtyard that is partially sheilded from sun by our house. Last year we grew tomatoes, peppers, and a number of herbs and whatnot in containers, all placed along the northern wall of the courtyard (garage wall w/ great southern exposure). The tomato plant was adament at staying away from the wall, growing outward and fruiting far from the wall. Is this because the dark wall was perhaps too hot, or simply because that was where the light is? Should we reconsider the box placement?

2nd question - we've gotten mixed info on whether we should line our cedar box or not. Is it advisable to line it to prevent moisture inside, or with a well draining mix does it matter? Obviously it's exposed to the element regardless since it's outside.

slotti 4/7/2011, 10:49 pm

I have a similar question to your second question. Due to tree placement in our yard and the surrounding yards, the best place or our SFG is on an asphalt patio. Do I need to put a bottom on the boxes like the weed cloth or anything like that? I don't see a point since asphalt will be below and not grass and dirt, but my husband thinks it would be good.

I'm guess the tomatoes wanted the sun but... hopefully a more experienced gardener will pipe up!

blue_elle 4/7/2011, 11:20 pm

It's been our experience that the asphalt will stain, so in your case I would line the box to prevent that.

**Furbalsmom** 4/8/2011, 10:19 am

Courtyard SQF placement and lining boxes? 654548

Welcome, Bue Elle

Nice to have you join us. We have several members in Georgia. SFG is a great use of small spaces like your courtyard.

I would place my box at least three feet from the dark wall, not only because of the heat, but also for access to any veggies.

Cedar is very resistant to rot, but at least one of our members added a lining to his table top SFG just to help retain moisture during the summer. He lined with heavy duty plastic, but made sure there were adequate drainage holes. Many line their boxes with weed cloth or landscape fabric, to prevent weeds from coming up in their Mel's Mix.

Please keep us posted on your progress and share pictures too!

Again, Welcome

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Courtyard SQF placement and lining boxes?

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