Even a private homeowner could locate old bathtubs for this purpose. They may have to be careful to landscape in a manner that doesn't offend the senses of their neighbors, but Aunt Mary showed it could be done. One of the special benefits of this garden is the ease with which special soils can be provided for various plants. You would have to be careful to provide a good drainage layer in the bottom of the tub since drainage would be limited to the one drain hole. This shouldn't limit you too much. Imagine having a tub for plants wanting high moisture levels, or bog-like conditions. Another one could provide the needs for alpine or rock garden plants. Still others might provide desert-like conditions for various cacti or succulents. They make perfect water gardens if the drainhole is blocked. Perhaps they could be sunk into the floor of a patio to create a water garden? Let your imagination run wild here — what would you do with a bathtub garden?
Thank you, Dolores, for sharing a piece of your family's history. As you stated, your Aunt Mary was certainly a woman ahead of her times — employed outside the home and into recycling.
If a reader has a similar story to share from your family's history, please feel free to contact me at gardenofeden@ibm.net. Until next week, good gardening to you!
*Bath tub picture was provided by Affordable Antique Bath & More Affordable Antique Bath & More
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