Cheap Containers for Herbs. Will this work? (Updated with pics/tute)

[scrills]

So I've been searching all over for cheap yet modern and attactive containers for my herbs. I am going about 10 different herbs so containers could easily become expensive.

ok, so i'm thinking about using either glass vases ($1-2, 8" tall, 4" wide) or sealed mailing or packing tubes (see link: http://www.cleartecpackaging.com/plastic-tubes.html).

The plan was to

 - Drill holes on the bottom and/or sides to allow for drainage and bottom watering (as seen in this flickr tutorial http://www.flickr.com/photos/greenscaper/2519983658/in/set-72157604735985648/)

 - Cover the tube with veneer (or some other material). I've been DYING to use zebra wood and this project is small enough that I can afford it.

 - Place the container in long plastic and water from the bottom. I actually found some plastic long-stem rose boxes (approx.  3" tall, 4" wide, 36" long) at the craft store for $1. I cut them in half and my peat pots are sitting in them now


http://www.cleartecpackaging.com/images/sealed-bottom-tubes-sm.jpg


Will the glass cause any problems? (heat, air). Will the plastic be strong enough?

[squeakyweasels]

I just wanted to say, I don't know if it will work but it sounds very cool!

[pinokeeo]

So, you are putting glass inside plastic?  How is the plastic sealed on the bottom?  I would think that because glass is heavy, it would fall out the bottom of the plastic tube.  I think I would put lots of duct tape or something around the bottom of the plastic tube.

It sounds like an awesome way to grow stuff, because you get the benefit of the glass heating up to make a greenhouse effect.  I can't wait to see how it turns out.

[alykorn]

Plastic will work, the glass will work if you have the herbs inside- glass gets way to hot in hours of sunlight that herbs need, the soil will dry out and hurt the plant. Plus glass is annoyingly slippery, and only when you are walking barefoot is when your drop the things!!
After about two years the plastic will get brittle from the heat and cold and you will need to replace it. But 75% of containers are plastic now, are you going to get the heavy walled ones? The weight of the dirt and water might make the thin walled one bow out and break.

You can also plant herbs together-in one hanging basket I planted rosemary, thyme, orgeano, and basil--since you keep them trimmed they don't get to leggy and herbs are low key.
Good luck and post a picture for us!

[scrills]

alykorn, i took your advice and stayed away from the glass. I used large water bottles. i just cut off the tops and sprayed them with textured spray. This is what I ended up with




http://paperchaise.wordpress.com/2009/05/11/tutorial-herb-vases/

[alykorn]

Those are cool!!!

[lisalady161]

You've combined three of my favorite things...herbs, upcycling, and not spending lots of money!  Those look great!

My only advice would be to make sure they get lots and lots of direct sunlight 6-8 hours per day!  Water every other day, and when the flower buds appear, either snip them off or start harvesting.

Have fun with your lovely little herb garden!

[scrills]

Just thought I would update, the herbs are doing great in these containers. I think the basil may need something bigger at this point, but overall everything is great