Raised Wooden Containers: What should I do next?

Gal2

Hello,

I have just received these raised wooden containers for planting vegetables and herbs in a school garden. Will it be sufficient to just varnish the containers prior to adding the soil or must I put a material under it first?

Thanks!

purplerallim

As it is a school one line the box with plastic staple edges to the edge of box and base and put a few holes in the bottom. It will need this as watering all year round is difficult( I know tried to keep tomatoes going during school holidays but didn't survive till September) pick plants that will do without or over watering ( we know how enthusiastic they can be) Short repeat crops work well and will be ready to harvest while in term time. Best of luck.

Fairygirl

I lined all of mine with heavy duty plastic, before painting with a proprietary stain [Ronseal I think]
You can use old compost bags if you don't want to buy polythene. 



I'd agree with purplerallim about keeping it simple as the crops won't last unless they have someone attending to them during school holidays. Lettuce, rocket and chard might do, but it could be a wee bit hit and miss. You could try strawberries, and maybe some other types of berries. It will also depend on your own local climate and conditions, especially in summer. 

purplerallim

Cherry tomatoes are possible too, but put in pots then at end of year someone can take them home.