How to Make an Upside Down Tomato Planter

Reviewed by Ben Barkan

Last Updated: May 19, 2023 References

Looking for a cool, space-saving garden project? We have all the tips you need to make an upside-down tomato planter from materials you probably already have around your home!

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You can buy one from the local hardware store in the paint section, but it's better to re-use. This one carried salt for a marine aquarium. Pool chemicals sometimes come in 5 gallon (18.9 L) buckets, and even laundry detergent. ^{[1]
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After frost in your area, carefully stick a small tomato plant through the hole, leaving the root ball, soil intact in the bucket. ^{[3]
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You may want to add other things beneficial to tomatoes like blood meal. ^{[4]
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Some ideas include parsley, basil, radishes, lettuce, carrots and more.
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In a couple of months, you will enjoy your tomatoes, saving patio space as well as creating a conversational item.

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What is the benefit of planting tomatoes upside down?

Arizona Livin'

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It's great when you have a limited amount of space. It also allows you to avoid staking up the plant and keeps the plant safe from any diseases or pests that could get to it when it's on the ground.

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If your handle breaks, drill two half inch holes on the sides and hang with heavy duty rope, like rope for a small boat.

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Plant cherry tomatoes and hang your bucket from the kid's swing set. They'll have a healthy little organic treat at their finger tips!

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Things You'll Need

Five gallon bucket
Small tomato plant
Drill *
One to two inch drill bit.
Potting soil
Herb seeds or seedlings to compliment your tomatoes. Basil is a great choice.

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