How to Build Self-Wicking Containers and Raised Bed Gardens

The episode begins with host Kristin Hildabrand welcoming listeners to the Sunshine Gardening podcast. She introduces the topic of self-wicking containers and raised bed gardening, expressing excitement about the innovative methods that gardeners will love. Kristin introduces the guest, Dr. Steve Higgins, from the University of Kentucky's Biosystems and Engineering department.















Kristin notes that April is National Gardening Month, highlighting the timing as perfect for discussing gardening improvements, particularly self-wicking raised beds. Dr. Higgins explains that a self-wicking raised bed has an impervious bottom that holds a water table, allowing plants to self-water. He mentions his experience building raised beds that can hold up to 300 gallons of water, minimizing the need for frequent watering.







Benefits of Self-Wicking Gardens







As they discuss the advantages of self-wicking raised beds, Dr. Higgins emphasizes the ergonomic benefits for older gardeners and the ability to grow robust plants, like tomatoes, that can handle heavy rain without splitting. He shares his journey of starting with five-gallon buckets and gradually transitioning to larger systems, leading to significant productivity in his garden.















Mechanics of Self-Wicking Gardens







Kristin and Dr. Higgins examine the mechanics of these raised beds, describing a typical design that includes a perforated pipe at the bottom to store water, with the soil on top. They discuss how the setup promotes healthy root systems through capillary action, making the plants more resilient to stress and diseases. Dr. Higgins notes that after initial establishment, the need for surface watering disappears as the plants access moisture from below.















Cost of Self-Wicking Gardens







They also cover the cost of building these raised beds, approximately $350 for a 4x10 bed, and the materials used, including treated lumber and specific liners to prevent wood rot. Maintenance of these beds is low, and they can work well for both vegetables and perennials.







Towards the end of the episode, Dr. Higgins briefly mentions his concerns about salt buildup in the soil, which he has not experienced. Kristin invites listeners to check the show notes for more information, including linked publications on self-wicking gardening.







Resources:







Self-Watering Wicking Container, AEN-157: https://publications.ca.uky.edu/files/AEN157.pdf







Raised Wicking Beds, AEN-158: https://publications.ca.uky.edu/sites/publications.ca.uky.edu/files/AEN158.pdf