Space Saving Tire Garden Towers
Homesteading in a small space
In a previous article, I told you why I am crazy about tire gardens.
They are convenient, low cost, efficient, fun, and have the capacity to be beautiful. And when you have a limited amount of space they are absolutely wonderful with helping you maximize your gardening output.
I bet you're wondering how though? Tires can be bulky and wide, and laying side by side they can take up a lot of space. And that is why I maximize my garden space with tire towers. I have a lot of land, but most of it is forest. So the one large patch of constant sun I have, I have to utilize in a smart way.
My problem is I have a family who like to eat, and we like to eat healthy. But healthy food is expensive. So every year I like to grow as many vegetables and fruits as I can to help my family cut out on food expenses. I grow tons of different types of peppers (my husband is a jalapeno-head), cabbage, lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, okra, several types of squash, blueberries, strawberries, mints, rhubarb, tomatoes, watermelon, Brussel sprouts pumpkins... and I've even started a grape patch (there's more, but I can't think of them right now...). But how I grow the whole farm if I am limited in space?
The answer is quite simply tire towers my friends. With one tire tower, I can grow anywhere between 11 to 21 plants in one space, depending on if you double up the plants that will thrive in a shared space. So how do you make a garden tower? Easy.
Step 1: The bottom level
This step takes the most tires. You're going to want to line the bottom of the tire garden with a tarp. Or if you're like me, you can go fully cost-efficient and recycle your potting soil bags as liners for your tower or whatever trashbags you have available to start. You make a flower shape with the tires. This keeps weeds from growing in your garden and helps prevent the roots of your plants from going into your grown if you don't want them to. A smaller tire will go in the center (I use size 12 to 14) and then you will put a bigger size (I use sizes 15 to 18 tires) around that one, all of them touching. It should look like a flower shape when you're done. You want the biggest tires on the bottom. There should be 5 or 6 tires, depending on the size you're using.
Step 2: The next tier up
This tier is going to take 4 to 5 tires, and you're going to want to use a smaller tire size than the bottom level. You're going to place these tires 'between' the tires on the bottom. Looking through, you should be able to see two tires touching in the middle of the tires. This maximizes your space for plants on the bottom tier.
Step 3: The Third Tier
This one will take 3 to 5 tires, depending on what size tires you're using. Once again, you're going to use a smaller size tire than the other two tiers you've done. And once again, you're going to place the tires 'between' the lower level, so that two tires touching can be seen through the middle of the tires you place.
Step 4: The top!
The top layer is fun, because you can choose to either use a bigger tire, a taller tire, or an even smaller tire at the top. You should place it in the direct center of the third tier.
Step 5: Don't forget the paint (optional)
If you live in a really hot place - I highly recommend painting your towers. The tires in the direct sun will get really hot, and if you live in a place where it's too hot you could burn your roots out with the heat (unless you're growing plants that are specifically conditioned for the high heat.) You want to go for lighter colors that deflect heat. Plus, it makes it super pretty and the pain really stands out.
Now for my caveat to this article. Tire towers take a lot of soil. We're talking bales of it. Usually for size 16 tires, it takes about half of a bale to fill up. But if that isn't going to deter you, then you're in for an amazing garden full of plants! I hope this helps anyone who may be considering starting a tire garden, or at least gave you ideas!
Time is precious, thank you so much for taking some to read my article. I hope you enjoyed it and it proved useful in some way!
Find my fictional fantasy book "Memoirs of the In-Between" on Amazon in paperback, eBook, and hardback.
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About the Creator
Hope Martin
Find my fantasy book "Memoirs of the In-Between" on Amazon in paperback, eBook, and hardback, in the Apple Store, or on the Campfire Reading app.
Follow the Memoirs Facebook age here!
I am a mother, a homesteader, and an abuse survivor.
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Epilogue
I sat in my office, twisting the wooden ring that Leon had carved for me on my finger. I was uncomfortable, hot, and cranky. And I was bored. Leon was making me a cup of tea in the adjoined kitchen. Estrakulius was resting peacefully next to me against the desk. I had taken up residence in CiCi’s old office as it was easier than moving everything into mine. It had been interesting to find things about CiCi after she was gone. It made me feel like she was still here and comforted me. And she was right, all of the millions and millions of reports were very helpful, no matter how much I hated them.
By Hope MartinExclusive • 2 months ago
Severe Cold Grips the Country as Hunza Records −21°C: Pakistan Faces a Deep Winter Freeze
A powerful cold wave has swept across Pakistan, plunging temperatures to alarming lows and turning daily life into a test of endurance for millions. The northern region of Hunza has recorded a bone-chilling −21°C, marking one of the coldest temperatures of the season and drawing national attention to the intensity of this winter. As icy winds cut through valleys and plains alike, the country is experiencing a severe cold spell that is affecting health, travel, agriculture, and energy supplies. Hunza at the Center of the Freeze Hunza, known worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty, has transformed into a frozen world. At −21°C, rivers partially freeze, roads become slippery, and even routine activities turn risky. Residents of the valley, though accustomed to harsh winters, describe this cold as unusually intense. Water pipelines have frozen solid, livestock require special care, and heating resources are stretched to their limits. Despite the extreme conditions, life continues. Locals rely on traditional methods of insulation, wood-burning stoves, and community cooperation to survive the cold nights. However, the severity of the temperature has raised concerns about vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those living in remote areas with limited access to fuel and medical facilities. Cold Wave Spreads Across Pakistan While Hunza sits at the epicenter of the cold, the effects are being felt nationwide. Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are experiencing sub-zero temperatures, while major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi are facing unusually cold mornings and dense fog. In the plains, nighttime temperatures have dropped sharply, catching many residents off guard. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that the cold wave may persist, driven by continental air systems moving southward. These systems not only lower temperatures but also increase the risk of frost, fog, and icy conditions on highways, disrupting travel and trade. Impact on Daily Life and Health Severe cold brings serious health risks, particularly for those without adequate shelter or heating. Hospitals in colder regions report an increase in patients suffering from hypothermia, respiratory infections, and flu-like illnesses. Doctors advise people to stay warm, avoid unnecessary exposure to cold, and ensure proper ventilation when using indoor heaters to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. In urban areas, gas shortages and power outages have intensified the struggle. Many households face limited gas supply during peak morning and evening hours, forcing families to rely on electric heaters or alternative fuels. This increased demand places additional pressure on the national power grid, raising the risk of load shedding. Agriculture and Livelihoods Under Threat The cold wave poses a significant threat to agriculture, particularly winter crops and orchards. Frost can damage wheat fields, vegetables, and fruit trees, potentially impacting yields and farmers’ incomes. In northern areas, livestock owners are working hard to protect animals from the cold, as freezing temperatures can lead to illness and even death among cattle and sheep. Tourism, a vital source of income for regions like Hunza, has also been affected. While some tourists are drawn by the snow-covered scenery, many trips have been canceled due to dangerous road conditions and travel advisories. Local businesses, already facing economic challenges, are feeling the strain of reduced visitor numbers. Government Response and Preparedness Authorities across Pakistan have issued cold weather alerts and advisories, urging citizens to take precautionary measures. Disaster management agencies are monitoring the situation, particularly in northern and mountainous regions where access can be cut off due to snow and ice. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, and local administrations are working to ensure the availability of fuel, food supplies, and medical assistance. However, experts stress that long-term planning is essential, as extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Climate Change and Extreme Winters Meteorologists and climate scientists point out that while Pakistan has always experienced cold winters, the increasing intensity and unpredictability of such cold waves may be linked to broader climate patterns. Shifts in jet streams and changing atmospheric circulation can result in extreme cold spells in regions not always prepared for them. These events highlight the need for improved infrastructure, better energy management, and stronger disaster preparedness strategies to protect vulnerable populations. Resilience in the Face of the Cold Despite the freezing temperatures, stories of resilience continue to emerge. Communities in Hunza and other cold-hit areas are supporting one another, sharing firewood, food, and shelter. Volunteers and local organizations are stepping in to help those most in need, proving once again the strength of communal bonds in times of hardship. Conclusion As severe cold grips Pakistan and Hunza records a staggering −21°C, the country faces a challenging winter marked by health risks, energy shortages, and economic strain. Yet, amid the icy conditions, resilience and solidarity shine through. This cold wave serves as a reminder of nature’s power and the importance of preparedness, cooperation, and compassion in overcoming even the harshest winters.
By Fiazahmedbrohi about 5 hours ago in Earth
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