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Wadly and I got all the bits put together and I’ve taken pics to share.
This system is designed to be built out of 55 gallon barrels (see the barrelponics group on yahoo) but I’m having a hard time finding clean free barrels in my area. Instead, I opted for the $4.96 option . . . a mortar mixing tray from Home Depot. The gas to go to where I can get 55 gallon drums is more than the cost of the tray. Add to that the cost of purchasing barrels (current best price is $15 ea.) and I’m way ahead.
Wadly built the frame to support the mortar tray. I think it’s clever. All the wood is recycled bits and pieces assembled with torx screws.
I had originally planned for additional posts to hold up the dump tank until I got a clue <shaking head at self> and had Wadly cut me some 2×6 angled pieces to hold a 2×8 shelf. I drilled a notch on one side of the shelf to accept the bottom of the toilet fill kit installed in the dump bucket.
The 5 gallon dump bucket is recycled and the drain plumbing parts cost about $10. I didn’t have any of the adapters and connectors for 1½” pipe though I did have some 2″ and a 2″ elbow all glued together which I used. Everything is dry fitted so it can be disassembled and adjusted or cleaned.
All along the length of the drain pipe are skill saw cuts ¾” apart. They are cut across the length of the pipe and go through 1/3 the thickness. The next time I take it apart I’ll get pictures. The end cap had six holes drilled in it.
When I build the next bed I will run one drain down the center and see how that works. Or maybe use 1″ pipe instead of 1½”.
I have three tomato plans (SunGold, Beefsteak and yellow cherry) and 4 green pepper. I will add red pepper as well when I can get some plants.
Wadly has cut a cover for the tank but the edges need routered and it needs waxed to keep the rain from soaking in. It’s in the shop waiting for me to get out there and do the task.