FAQ

Q Is there anything I cannot grow in GreenSmart®?

Most vegetables or herbs can be grown in GreenSmart® pots. Plants such as strawberries can be grown if the pots are placed in a higher elevation so that the runners can cascade from the pot. Climbing plants can be grown using the staking system available in the GreenSmart® range.

Q What sizes do the pots come in?

We have what we call our large size pot because its just enough for 3 rows of herbs and veggies (73.6cmL x 43.9cmW x 29cmH).

Q Do I need to change the potting mix every time I plant a new crop?

No. The same potting mix can be used up to 5 crops of either the same or different produce. Only new fertiliser will need to be added as it will have been exhausted by the previous crop.

Q How often will water need to be added?

Water only needs to be added when the visual water indicator reaches low. The frequency differs depending on the type of produce planted, and the weather.

Q What kind of fertiliser does GreenSmart® need?

Non-organic or organic fertiliser can be used

Q Can the plastic cover be removed once the plants have started growing?

Yes. However, ideally, it should be left on. The cover keeps the potting mix moist by slowing evaporation, keeps the humidity level high, and stops unwanted plants getting into the pot.

Q Are the pots recyclable?

GreenSmart™ pots are completely recyclable.

Q What are the contents in the starter pack?

• A pot for planting.
• A visual water level indicator.
• A washer with indents to fit the locking system of the indicator to the container.
• A washer to prevent leaks from inside.
• A nut to fasten the indicator to the container.
• Lid for the indicator.
• A perforated inner plate for aeration with 6-8 legs.
• A plastic cover.
• Instructions for assembly and usage of pot.

Q Do I need to use fertiliser?

Yes. GreenSmart® gives you the ability to use either granular fertiliser with the potting mix or liquid fertiliser through the visual water indicator directly to the water.

Q Does it really self-regulate its water?

Yes. Vegetables and herbs grown in GreenSmart® pots always obtain their optimal amount of water due to the capillary action . All that needs to be checked is the water in the visual water indicator each week to make sure the reservoir is not empty.

Q Can GreenSmart® pots be over or under watered?

Plants cannot be over watered as excess water above the maximum water level (on the visual water indicator) will flow through the overflow holes. Plants in GreenSmart® pots will be self-watered without any interruption to the transpiration pull at their own unique rate. The only way to underwater is if you don’t fill the wicks incorporated in the inner plate (tubes) firmly with potting mix during the time of setting up your GreenSmart® pot or by letting the water reservoir run dry.

Q Do I need to put GreenSmart® in sunlight?

Yes. GreenSmart® pots need to be placed in areas where the plants will receive up to a minimum of six to eight hours of sunlight per day.

Q What is Dolomite?

Dolomite is a natural source of calcium and magnesium. It is a soil additive that is also used to balance pH levels of growing mediums.

Q What kind of potting mixture should I use?

Most kinds of potting mix are appropriate for use in GreenSmart® pots. An organic potting mix made with tree bark is preferable in order to prevent any nitrogen lock ups.

Q How do I prepare the pot for planting?

Planting preparation

• The GreenSmart® pot should be placed where it will receive 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.
• Securely fasten the water indicator to the pot.
• Fill water reservoir through visual water indicator to maximum level and check to see there are no leakages around the fitted water indicator.
• Place inner plate in the GreenSmart® container.
• Fill the pot with potting mix (not soil) to 5cm below the top of the pot. It is important that the inner plate tubes are filled firmly with potting mix as these act as wicks and draw water to the plant.
• Add dolomite and fertilizer, the prescribed amounts according to the manufacturers, to the remaining potting mix to fill the rest of the the pot.

Planting Method:
Method 1

• Mix the fertilizer as listed above to the potting mix in the pot.
• Dig a hole into the potting mix and place the plant firmly in the potting mix.
• Water the plants from the top (when initially planting only) to remove any air pockets from around the roots.

Optional
Method 2- When using the plastic cover (recommended)

• Mix the fertilizer as listed above to the potting mix in the pot.
• Stretch the plastic cover over the top of the GreenSmart pot and secure the top edge of the box. Cut 4mm “X” (cross cuts) in the plastic cover to plant each seedling.
• Dig through the plastic cover into the potting mix and place the plant firmly in the potting mix.
• Water the plants from the top (when initially planting only), through the crosscut, to remove any air pockets from around the roots.

Q Will I be able to grow vegetables all year round?

Yes. Different vegetables and herbs can be grown in the GreenSmart® pot seasonally dependent on the climate/geographical location. Some examples of different produce that can be grown in different season:
Cool season: broad beans, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kohlrabi, onion, pak choy, peas, shallots, snow peas, spring onions, turnips, parsnip.
Intermediate season: artichoke, beetroot, bok choy, carrot, potatoes, radish, silver beet, spinach, parsley, onion, lettuce, leek, kale, garlic, florence fennel, endive, celery.
Warm season: capsicum, chilli, chives, okra, pumpkin, tomatoes, basil, beans, climbing beans, corn, cucumber, eggplant, gourd, melons, malabar spinach

Q How do I assemble the pot?

• Fit the washer with the indents in position on the visual water indicator.
• Insert the visual water indicator into the pot.
• Fit the 2nd washer on the inside firmly against the side of the pot.
• Fasten the nut making sure it is fitted tight to prevent leakage.
• Ensure the visual water level indicator is fitted properly and there are no leaks by filling the visual water indicator to maximum level and check for any water leaks.