The grow tables are the perfect solution to enjoy a urban garden Conveniently and efficiently, without having to bend down or take up a lot of space. Ideal for terraces, balconies, or patios, these elevated structures make it easy to grow your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Manufactured with resistant materials and durable, such as treated wood, metal or recycled plastic, our grow tables are designed to ensure a proper drainage and optimal plant growth. In addition, its ergonomic and functional design It adapts to any type of space, offering an alternative sustainable and practical to create your own green corner.
Environmental benefits and responsible certification
Choose FSC-certified wood (Forest Stewardship Council) means betting on a responsible forest managementThis seal guarantees that the wood comes from well-managed forests, from controlled sources and/or recycled materials, promoting practices that protect biodiversity, take care of the drinking water and respect the rights of indigenous peoples, forest workers and local communities.
Choosing cultivation tables with certified wood contributes to the climate change mitigation because it promotes orderly, transparent, and sustainable extraction and chain of custody. When you choose certified products, you boost a market that reduces pressure on forests, promotes decent employment and guarantees the traceability of the material. If you are attracted to wood for its aesthetics or warmth, always look for the FSC logo as a purchasing criterion.
Introduction
Everything you always wanted to know about grow tables but no one explained to you. In this article, we review the key points so you can choose your urban garden table correctly and avoid surprises.
The grow tables They are becoming the stars of urban gardens, largely due to their usability and its attractive design. More and more people are choosing to grow their own vegetables at home organically, and growing tables are a simple solution and economical way to get started in this world of organic gardening at home.
However, since this is a relatively new product, it's normal for questions to arise about how it works and what you can or should do to achieve good results. We can tell you that it's very simple to use and, to put it simply, It's like having a little piece of garden at a very comfortable height to grow your favorite vegetables.
Description
Grow tables are containers cultivation of approximately 20cm deep in which we can grow comfortably at home thanks to the working height, specially designed to avoid effort and to be able to carry out garden tasks comfortably.
They usually have four legs, although depending on the size they can have six or more in the larger models. The legs provide the required height to the culture container. This container must have one or more drainage holes, through which the excess irrigation water will flow. You must keep in mind that the amount of irrigation required in the cultivation tables is greater than that used in traditional cultivation in the ground, since the smaller container produces a rapid evaporation of moisture in the substrate, drying out quickly. This is something we must not allow to happen; to be successful in our crops, it is necessary always maintain humidity, so watering during the hottest and most solar-intensive seasons becomes a daily task.
The 20cm depth found in most grow tables may seem shallow, but it is not. plant roots larger ones will try to advance downwards, but if this is not possible, they will do so to the sides. Another key point to success is to use a special substrate Coconut fiber and worm castings. In urban cultivation, our plants will suffer from a lack of space for their roots, so it's extremely important to use a substrate. spongy and very fertilized, which allows proper transpiration of the roots and provides all the necessary nutrients for the plants. You will be surprised It's important to know that most failures in growing urban gardens, whether in growing tables or pots, are due to poor substrate selection. If you don't want surprises that could ruin your harvest after months of caring for your plants, we recommend using our substrate kits. coconut fiber y pure worm humus.
To further refine, a typical mix may include a majority percentage of coconut fiber (lightness and retention), worm humus as organic fertilizer, and small fractions of perlite or vermiculite for extra aeration. If the table allows, add a drainage layer of arlite at the bottom (2-3cm) and a geotextile mesh above to separate the drainage layer from the substrate.
What are they made of?
Currently most grow tables are manufactured in wood or in metalBoth materials have proven to be very valid, but each has its own peculiarities.
Wooden grow tables are very attractive and are often our favorite for nature lovers. They are sturdy and durable as they are made from wood from Sustainable management, FSC certified. This wood undergoes intensive processing autoclave treatment maximum protection to allow its use outdoors, in contact with the substrate and extend the life of the wood. However, it is a material that requires care if we want it to last for many years. It is advisable to treat the wood with linseed oil or organic protective oils to preserve our growing table and prevent the boards from deteriorating. Never apply non-organic or toxic products! Keep in mind that your plants and the substrate will be in contact with the treated surface. You can apply this preventative treatment starting in the second year of use as a preventive measure.
Metal grow tables are also very attractive as they are usually lacquered in bright colors. This paint or lacquer, provides the metal with excellent protection against corrosion and rust. The most economical metal grow tables feature a finish galvanizado, which makes them less attractive, but the treatment provides them with excellent protection. Whether they are painted or galvanized, no additional protective treatment will be necessary.
Some of our customers ask us if metal grow tables get excessively hot in the summer. At COCOPOT, we can confirm that this is not the case, and we know this from experience. In our urban garden, we use a green metal grow table and have found that no heating occurs Even in the middle of August in Valencia, which is saying something. The humidity of the substrate itself is responsible for preventing the temperature from rising.
A tip to keep in mind if you use metal garden tools There is a risk of scratching the paint, which will expose the metal and may cause corrosion in the damaged area. On wood, check the screws and hardware annually. together and retighten if necessary to avoid looseness.
The height
Just take a quick look at the available models to see that there is a wide variety of heights in the growing tables. The tallest ones, between 80 and 85 cm, are the most recommended for teenagers and adults, as the growing container is raised to a comfortable height for gardening without straining the back. Some models are designed for use by people with limited mobility since the lower space allows the entry of a wheelchair.
The mid-height models, around 65-45cm, are suitable for enjoying the garden with the little ones in the house. It's a fantastic idea to introduce children to children in growing vegetables and greens at home. If you're looking for maximum ergonomics, consider tables with auxiliary shelves and wheels with brakes to move them easily on terraces.
Where can I put it?
You must find a place sunny and wide enough to allow you to access the grow table from at least one of the long sides, so you can work comfortably. There are elongated and narrow models that are suitable for balcony and small spaces. The larger models can be used easily on terraces and in gardens.
When choosing the most suitable location, keep in mind that the Salt It is necessary for the correct development of our plants. An east or south orientation is always a good choice. Try to protect your growing table from the windIf you have a terrace with a wall on the west side, you can place the table next to that wall. The plants will receive sun from the east and south, and the wall will protect our crops from the wind.
Pay attention to sewer systemIt is very common for excess moisture to escape through the different drainage points, so you should not place objects that could be damaged by moisture on the bottom of the growing table, or place it on wooden platform that could be damaged. Place rubber studs or water collection trays help keep the floor clean.
Value the load On terraces and balconies: 20cm of substrate is equivalent to approximately 200L per square meter. Saturated with water, this volume can weigh between 200 and 260 kg, to which we must add the structure and irrigation water. Make sure to place the table on solid areas, close to a water point and, if possible, to a drain.
how they are grown
You will soon discover that it is very easy Grow your plants in growing tables, either by direct sowing or by planting seedlings. If you'd like to learn more about the different techniques, you can consult our Article on types and care of urban gardens.
To know what you can grow in each month of the year, we recommend you take a look at our «Mini-Planting Guides», where you will find detailed information on which seeds you can plant each month and how to do it. Remember to respect the separation necessary between plants. We also offer our "Sowing and Harvest Calendar," where you can view all the months of the year in a single document.
Direct sowing of seeds
In your growing table you can sow seeds directly, some plants develop better when sown directly, such as carrots and radishes, and all bulbs in general. To make this task easier, you can use a seed tray. Once the seeds are spread, you should cover them with substrate one to two times their size; just use the substrate on the table to cover them. Make a first abundant watering to facilitate germination.
Transplanting seedlings
You can purchase seedlings at most garden centers in your area. They're a good place to start if you don't have much experience. Make a small hole in the growing medium of the growing table, appropriate for the size of the seedling. Carefully place the plant in the hole and firm the substrate around it by pressing gently. Respect the minimum distances necessary between plants, you can consult them in our "Mini Planting Guides" and carry out a first abundant watering to consolidate the substrate around the roots.
For best results, apply padded (straw, bark, crushed leaves) to reduce evaporation and stabilize the temperature, plan rotations (leaf, fruit, root, legumes) and program staggered sowing every 2-3 weeks in short-cycle crops such as lettuce or radishes.
In irrigation, the systems of exuding irrigation They distribute water by capillary action and are easy to install; compared to traditional drip irrigation, they usually improve uniformity on rectangular surfaces. Connect a programmer to improve consistency. Keep the substrate moist, not waterlogged, and maintain a pH close to 6-7 for good nutrient absorption.
What can be grown
Except for some crops that require a large amount of substrate, you can plant a wide variety of plants in the growing tables. vegetables, herbs and herbsTo expand your knowledge, we recommend you visit our article on types of home gardens.
Planning grow tables
To guide expectations: leafy vegetables (lettuce, spinach, arugula, chard) work wonders. Those of root (radishes, baby carrots) perform well with loose substrate. Those of fruit (tomato, pepper, eggplant) require tutoring and regular fertilization. Avoid very deep tubers or opt for larger tables. depth if you want to grow potatoes in volume.
Tips to consider
Patience, perseverance, and consistency—that's the secret. In no time, you'll discover that it's a pleasure to grow your own food at home organically. flavors that you thought were forgotten and even this hobby can change your diet and make it healthier.
Be constant and regular maintenance of an urban garden is the key to success. Most crops grown in small containers will require light but frequent watering to maintain substrate moisture. Similarly, a well-planned quote Applying organic treatments (insecticide and fungicide) regularly will ensure the health of our plants.
A correct selection of seeds It's essential. It's pointless to care for and pamper our plants if the seeds are of poor quality, because when it's time to harvest the fruit from the garden, we could be unpleasantly surprised. In COCOPOT You'll find a wide variety of top-quality seeds for sale. This is one of the most affordable options when it comes to setting up a garden at home, so it's not worth skimping on the purchase of seeds.
In order to have greater control and efficiency in irrigation, it is always a good idea to install a automated irrigation system. In COCOPOT We recommend the installation of systems exuding irrigation, much easier to install than traditional drip irrigation and more effective than the latter. If we also incorporate a irrigation programmer, we will greatly improve irrigation regularity, which will result in much better development of our crops, healthy and more productive plants.
For the ecological control of plagues and diseases, combines potassium soap (against aphids and whiteflies), neem oil (preventive), and treatments based on Horse tail To strengthen against fungi. Use color traps and keep the environment free of diseased leaves to prevent powdery mildew y mildew.
With all these tips You are now ready to start your own urban garden on growing tables. Go ahead, it's very rewarding!
COCOPOT urban garden
Author: Fito Senabre
Urban garden tables, commonly known as growing tables, are easy to place anywhere in the home. Depending on the plants you choose, you can place it both indoors and outdoors of the home, choosing the design that best suits our tastes and decor.
The two main materials with which these tables are made are wood and metalIn both cases, they are treated for greater durability, especially against outdoor elements such as air, sun exposure, or rain. Furthermore, either material allows for perfect efficiency in the growing process we want to do on the table.
Urban garden kit
If this is the first time you are interested in an urban garden, our advice is that you choose to purchase a accessory or tool kitThanks to this, you'll have everything you need at your fingertips to ensure your crop turns out perfectly, without having to keep buying new products as soon as the need arises.
At the same time, kits are usually offered in competitive prices than purchasing products individually. If you can find a way to get all the growing accessories you consider necessary, this type of purchase is better. Always include gloves, a transplanting trowel, a hand rake, a sprayer, tutors, string, and a basic meter moisture of the substrate.
What plants should you use to start your urban garden?
Horticultural plants, aromatic plants… Where do we start? Without a doubt, with the friendliest. That's right, is this your first time reading this? Well, the truth is that some plants are much easier to grow in a garden than others. lettuce, radishes, the argula to garlic They are, in fact, some of the easiest plants to grow in existence, as they adapt easily to gardens that are made in small plastic containers, in addition to being ideal for have a garden at home.
- RadishesRadishes perform well in any type of soil, even in moderately saturated soils, and are usually ready to harvest within a few weeks. Ideally, in this case, the seeds should be planted in spring and fall.
- Lettuce: or any leafy green vegetable, really, such as spinach or arugula. Plant them in spring and fall to enjoy green salads almost year-round.
- Onions: It is best to start with scallions or green onions, which are the smallest, although if you prefer you can also opt for bulb onions.
- Garlic: a must-have for urban gardens. In this case, all you need is a container—a pot, a planter, or a modular garden—and make sure the substrate is light and airy.
- PeppersBoth hot peppers and bell peppers are easy to grow. They can also be harvested when ripe or mature to produce a wide range of different colors and flavors.
- TomatoesA hardy plant that's hard to fail with. In fact, if you get a big harvest, it's ideal to use it to make sauces and preserves.
- BasilThe good thing about basil, despite being a very easy herb to grow, is that it is a very good companion for tomatoes.
- Strawberries: Surprisingly hardy, as well as very sweet. Make sure, however, to buy them bare-root in early spring, place them in a sunny spot, and keep them well weeded.
At the level of social awareness, the possibility of growing plants, flowers or food in our own home is a sustainable element, which many buyers consider the most important. With this type of table, we not only support this practice so closely linked to nature, but we also impact large cities, reducing emissions of carbon dioxide. This provides an element of sustainability in the home, while allowing the development of a hobby as healthy and beneficial as growing plants and vegetables.
If you want to grow comfortably, with less effort and in a more sustainable way, a well-chosen growing table, with certified wood where appropriate and simple automated irrigation, will allow you to harvest fresh food and healthy in a very small space, enjoying the process and taking care of the planet.
