How to Water a Topsy Turvy

Grow a variety of vegetables in a Topsy Turvy upside-down planter.

Gardening with a Topsy Turvy is an effective way to grow vegetables in small spaces. A Topsy Turvy is also a good solution for gardeners with knee or back problems that make bending and stooping difficult. Although the Topsy Turvy is within easy reach for gardeners, accessing the plant is difficult for slugs and other crawling pests. Although Topsy Turvy was originally created for planting tomatoes, the device can be used for growing a variety of plants, including strawberries, peppers, eggplant, zucchini and herbs. Watering a Topsy Turvy isn't difficult, as any excess water will drain through the bottom of the container.

Things You'll Need

• Topsy Turvy planter
• Garden hose or watering can

Instructions

1. Water the Topsy Turvy every other day during the spring when the plant is smaller. The soil will stay damp longer during cooler weather.

2. Check the Topsy Turvy every day during hot weather. Watering Topsy Turvy regularly is crucial, as the container is unable to absorb water from the ground. The container may need water twice daily during extremely hot, dry weather. Alternatively, move the Topsy Turvy to an area where the plant will be in the shade during the hottest part of the afternoon.

3. Lift the bottom of the Topsy Turvy bag to determine if the Topsy Turvy needs water. If the Topsy Turvy is lightweight, the soil in the Topsy Turvy is dry and should be watered. If the Topsy Turvy feels heavy, the soil is saturated and the Topsy Turvy requires no water.

Tips & Warnings

• Never allow the soil to become dry if your Topsy Turvy contains tomato plants. A wet-dry cycle can cause blossom end rot, which is a black area at the base of the tomatoes.

References

• Topsy Turvy: Instructions
• Topsy Turvy: FAQS
• Botanical-Journeys-Plant-Guides: Topsy Turvy Tomato Planter Review