Soil Component Storage Solutions

[RJW]

I am looking for some soil component storage solutions. These tubs are less than 1 year old & obviously have not handled the Albuquerque sun well. Im planning to put a metal roof over this area but probably not until spring. I'd love to see y'alls storage solutions so I can make some adjustments. One idea ive got is to salvage a few demo'd doors from work putting one on top & one in front that will lift up like an awning for access. Buckets are probably my cheapest option for new containers but if there is a longer term route the group can stare me towards nows the time for me to act. These tubs will not survive the winter & I'll have a mess.

 

[papkey5]

If you are going to use buckets, you might be able to score some free ones by contacting your local public pool. See what they do with the used chlorine buckets, and if they will let you just take them. After rinsing them out and letting them dry they will be fine. I would also recommend those blue 50 gallon barrels that you can use for storing water. With those you will have to create a way to get better access.

 

[RJW]

If you are going to use buckets, you might be able to score some free ones by contacting your local public pool. See what they do with the used chlorine buckets, and if they will let you just take them. After rinsing them out and letting them dry they will be fine. I would also recommend those blue 50 gallon barrels that you can use for storing water. With those you will have to create a way to get better access.

I do have access to free buckets from my paint subcontractor, I also have some 55 gallon drums but being in Albuquerque those are prioritized for rainwater collection & when needed municipal water treatment.

 

[rockm]

Any non-UV resistant plastic left out in direct sun will deteriorate quickly. Stabilized plastic (HDPE), metal etc will work. I use buckets like this but keep them inside to avoid weather extremes (seasonal freeze/thaw and humidity -which can affect the soil regardless of container)

 

[RJW]

Any non-UV resistant plastic left out in direct sun will deteriorate quickly. Stabilized plastic (HDPE), metal etc will work. I use buckets like this but keep them inside to avoid weather extremes (seasonal freeze/thaw and humidity -which can affect the soil regardless of container)
View attachment 616861

Hdpe is the food grade plastic isn't it?

 

[pandacular]

I use bins that are similar to those, but the heavy duty, UV resistant bins. I like the Rubbermaid Brute line, though they’re not not good at keeping out moisture, so I try to store them in the garage or under a tarp. I find that the 13 gallon sizes are easy to lift and the 18 gallons are just a bit too heavy to lift easily.

 

[rockm]

Hdpe is the food grade plastic isn't it?

Yes but held is more UV resistant than regular plastic.

 

[nuttiest]

I like the plastic coffee containers - 4 or more filled containers under every plank makes a new bench. When you need what's in them build a new bench with less needed materials and put the plants there.