The Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter is an innovative raised-bed solution specifically designed for growing a wide variety of plants, especially leafy greens. Its unique bottomless design encourages deep root growth while maintaining excellent drainage and airflow, making it ideal for growing fast-growing vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and other leafy greens. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly assemble, prepare, maintain, and optimize your planter for high yields, all while addressing common challenges and comparing it to other raised-bed systems.

Tools Required

• Shovel or trowel
• Leveling tool
• Garden soil mix (recommended for raised beds)
• Compost
• Drill and screws (if applicable)
• Garden gloves
• Watering can or hose
• Mulch (optional)

Assembly of the Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter

The Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter is designed to be straightforward to assemble. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Prepare the Location: Choose a level area in your garden or on your patio that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Clear any grass, weeds, or debris from the area where you’ll place the planter.
2. Assemble the Tank: If your planter comes in separate pieces, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the components. Typically, the pieces will snap or bolt together easily, forming a sturdy frame.
3. Check for Stability: Once assembled, ensure the structure is level and secure. This helps with uniform watering and root growth.
4. Place the Planter: Position the bottomless tank on the prepared site. Since it has no base, the soil will directly connect with the earth below, encouraging deep root penetration.

Site Preparation

The success of your leafy green plants in the Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter largely depends on proper site preparation. Follow these steps to ensure your plants have the best possible start:

1. Soil Selection: Use a high-quality, well-draining garden soil mix for raised beds. This type of mix typically includes compost, peat, and vermiculite or perlite to improve aeration and water retention. Avoid using garden soil alone, as it can compact and hinder root growth.
2. Soil Amendments: For leafy greens, it’s important to incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to ensure nutrient-rich soil. Mix in about 20% compost to the base soil.
3. Level the Soil: After filling the planter, use a rake or shovel to level the soil. This ensures even water distribution and prevents waterlogging in low spots.

Routine Upkeep and Maintenance

Routine care will keep your Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter healthy and productive. Key maintenance tasks include:

1. Watering: Ensure your leafy greens receive consistent moisture. Because the planter lacks a base, water will drain quickly, so check the soil frequently. Consider using a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose for efficient, consistent watering.
2. Soil Refresh: Every season, or after harvesting a crop, it’s a good idea to refresh the soil. Remove any remaining roots and add fresh compost or soil amendments to replace nutrients. Stir the soil gently to aerate it.
3. Weeding: While the planter helps prevent weeds from spreading into the bed from the ground below, you should still remove any weeds that sprout within the soil.
4. Seasonal Cleaning: At the end of each growing season, clean the planter structure to prevent the buildup of debris, pests, or disease. Wash the inside and outside of the tank with a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

The Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter is designed for durability, but like any gardening system, it may present some challenges. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

1. Warping: Over time, extreme weather conditions may cause the planter’s material to warp or degrade. To prevent this, place the planter in a location that is sheltered from the harshest conditions, and inspect it annually for damage. If warping occurs, reinforce the structure with additional stakes or supports.
2. Drainage Problems: While the planter’s bottomless design encourages good drainage, if you notice standing water, check for compaction in the soil. Add organic matter or sand to improve drainage if necessary.
3. Pest Entry: If pests are getting into your planter, consider adding a fine mesh pest cover or installing a physical barrier along the sides of the bed to prevent entry. You may also want to use diatomaceous earth around the base to deter insects.

Customization and Optimization for Higher Yields

To maximize your harvest of leafy greens in the Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter, consider the following optimizations:

1. Companion Planting Layouts: Companion planting is an effective way to boost plant health and yields. Pair leafy greens with plants like radishes or marigolds, which help deter pests and encourage healthy growth.
2. Wicking Inserts: Adding a wicking insert to the bottom of the planter can help maintain consistent moisture levels, reducing the frequency of watering.
3. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch over the soil to conserve moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulch like straw or shredded leaves works well in the bottomless tank.
4. Optimizing for Water Efficiency: Consider incorporating a micro-drip irrigation system that delivers water directly to the roots of your plants. This reduces water waste and ensures that your leafy greens receive the right amount of moisture.

Compatibility with Add-Ons

The Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter is versatile and compatible with a range of add-ons that can help you optimize your growing environment:

1. Trellis Frames: For vertical growing, attach a trellis frame to the sides of the planter. This is especially useful for climbing leafy greens like peas or climbing varieties of cucumbers.
2. Mesh Pest Covers: To protect your plants from pests like aphids or cabbage worms, consider using mesh pest covers that sit on top of the planter. These can be easily removed for maintenance or harvesting.
3. Hoop-House Roofs: If you live in a region with harsh winters or frosty temperatures, a hoop-house roof can help extend your growing season by trapping heat and protecting your plants from cold weather.
4. Self-Watering Reservoirs: Adding a self-watering reservoir can simplify watering by providing consistent moisture levels to the soil, which is especially useful in hot climates.
5. Shade Cloths: For growing leafy greens during the warmer months, shade cloths can provide some protection from the intense midday sun. Set up a frame over the planter and drape the shade cloth over it to keep your greens from wilting.

Comparison with Similar Raised-Bed Systems

When compared to other raised-bed systems, the Behlen Country Farmstead Bottomless Tank Planter offers several distinct advantages. Unlike traditional raised beds, its bottomless design encourages deep root growth and allows for better moisture regulation. Other systems, such as those with solid bottoms, often struggle with drainage, leading to waterlogged roots. Additionally, the robust construction of the Behlen Country system ensures long-lasting durability, while many other raised beds can degrade over time.

However, for gardeners who prefer more compact options or need a mobile system, other raised-bed models might be more suitable. Additionally, while the bottomless design supports deep roots, it requires a firm, level installation site and may not be suitable for very rocky or uneven terrain.