These growing boxes are a smaller sized version of the bigger salad boxes I made a couple of weeks ago. I made them from 16 inch long pieces of 1×4 and 2×4 lumber. The inside dimensions are 13 inches wide, 16 inches long and 3.5 inches deep.
mini salad box
Like the bigger boxes, the bottom of the box is covered first in screen wire, then in 1/2″ mesh hardware cloth. The screen keeps the potting mix in place, and the hardware cloth helps support the weight of the soil and plants. Both are stapled to the bottom of the lumber with 3/8″ staples using a staple gun.
bottom view of mini salad box
These mini salad boxes are a little lighter and easier to maneuver around than the bigger ones. Even so, they still weigh over 10 pounds when planted. I used a mix of 2/3 potting soil and 1/3 compost for the boxes, with a little balanced organic fertilizer and a handful of blood meal added. I’ll also water them occasionally with some liquid fish emulsion and seaweed fertilizer.
salad box with mix of arugula and lettuce plants
I’m going to plant these boxes with a variety of different greens this spring. I’ll be posting progress reports later as the plants grow and harvesting begins. For more information, the University of Maryland extension service has detailed instructions about making boxes or a growing table in this document, plus information on growing media, fertilizing and a list of vegetables that are suitable for growing in these boxes.