Even steampunks have varied interests while docked in port. One of my interests is gardening. In my travels I was introduced to aquaponics, and wicking beds, in particular. I decided to work my way into the aquaponics realm by starting with stand alone wicking beds that could be incorporated into an aquaponics system as I was able to build it. I also wanted planting containers that were mobile. I started with 5 Gallon buckets from Home Depot. My design process is simple and easy to duplicate.
While you do have to monitor the water levels in these planters, the beauty of the system is the water wicks from the bottom and keeps the soil damp, creating the optimum moisture conditions to keep your plants hydrated. If you miss checking the water level for a day or two, your plants are still good, even in the heat of the deep south.
I was asked what plants did well in the deep south by a friend of mine in Louisiana. Below is a short list of what I have had luck with.
Zucchini, Pink eye peas, Green beans, all Peppers, Tomatill0s, Cherry tomatoes, Melons, Lemon balm, Herbs of all types, Micro greens (black oil sunflower grown for 7 to 10 days).
Plants I have had trouble with and the reasons for the trouble are:
Tomatoes – Bad problems with tomato horn worm eating the plants. I have been hand picking, but was recently suggested to use an organic spray that uses bacteria to control the worms. I am impressed with this spray Safer Brand 5163 Caterpillar Killer, it works and can be sprayed up until the time you pick the tomatoes. Since it is natural, it is safe for humans. Wash your tomatoes before eating or cooking with them. The other issue is full sun. While the plants were originally sub tropical, our harsh sun can scorch an dry them. They require plenty of water and I found that shade cloth with a 30% rating helps.
The other plant I have issues with are Crooked Neck Squash. You have to be careful watering them in the evening. The old timers say if they go to bed with wet feet, they will not produce. Vine borers are the other issue. You cannot see these bugs. The first indicator os the vines start to turn brown and dry out. If this occurs in your garden, pull them out and burn them. That is the best way I know to break the life cycle of this bug.
And make sure you mulch everything to help prevent moisture evaporation and weeds in your garden. I use wood chips and pine straw where I can.