Allotments 4 All

Produce => Edible Plants => Topic started by: cheddarpaul on January 13, 2006, 10:57:43

Title: Oil Drum growing? Confused???
Post by: cheddarpaul on January 13, 2006, 10:57:43
When I took over my precious lottie last May there were 3 old, rusty dustbin/oil drums on the site, all with no bottoms. Due to their size I have yet to take them down to the tip.

Before I do, is there anything I can plant in them which will grow and not be too difficult to get at? They are about 3-4ft high and in rusty/bad condition.
Also, if something will grow in them, what type of soil/muck should I fill them with to plant into?

Ta muchly
Title: Re: Oil Drum growing? Confused???
Post by: Delilah on January 13, 2006, 11:50:48
some folks put carrots in oil-drums I think coz it helps protect from carrot fly - or potatoes would be another good one  :)

you could keep one for burning any rubbish in as well - I always do that instead of making a bonfire, i have a bit of a phobia bout fire and it just seems al little more controlled in the oil drum :)
Title: Re: Oil Drum growing? Confused???
Post by: Derekthefox on January 13, 2006, 11:52:36
I only use them for fires, you have an increased risk of nasty cuts etc if you are thinking of using them for growing, particularly as you say they are in bad condition. I would be inclined just to get rid of them ...
Title: Re: Oil Drum growing? Confused???
Post by: keef on January 13, 2006, 11:53:05
You could maybe use them for making compost, but you'd need to make a few air holes here and there, and come up with some kind lid (bit of plast sheet and a brick would probably do...)
Title: Re: Oil Drum growing? Confused???
Post by: RosieA on January 13, 2006, 22:50:50
What about if you put a apple tree in them. Like you see them growing in pots, the drums are big pots size.
Title: Re: Oil Drum growing? Confused???
Post by: Merry Tiller on January 13, 2006, 22:57:39
If you intend to show your veg use them for growing carrots or parsnips, if not get rid of 'em