Market Farming

["cheselka AT theriver.com" <cheselka AT theriver.com>]

> I would not cover my property with old tires as they are not cheap or easy
> to dispose of.  You are creating a mess.

To each his own, Craig.  I'm certainly not forcing anyone else to do this. 
If it works (that is, the veggies come out delicious, happy, and healthy --
and the soil in the tire stacks continue to improve), then I'll let y'all
know.  If it fails (that is, sick veggies and toxic soil), then I'll let
y'all know.  It's my time, my money, my effort, and my gain (or loss).  I
certainly won't sell any of these veggies if they're not doing well, so I'm
not harming anyone either.

> If you are interested in the chemical effect of the tires on the soil,
test
> the soil around the existing tires.

Certainly -- as well as testing the plants themselves!

> What benefit tires have for melon or pumpkin escapes me. They will spread
> out of a tire in the first week.

Many possible benefits (just off the top of my head):

1. It useds land that would otherwise be unusable (very very rocky)
2. Tires will warm the soil that these heat-loving plants like
3. Vines will grow up and out the stacks, then down the outside walls and
onto the ground, where they have a lot of room (8 ft between stacks) to
spread
4. Uses something that's otherwise going to a landfill
5. If it works, perhaps it'll inspire others to do the same (smaller or
larger scale) or, better yet, just get out there and make their *own* garden
6. It's crazy enough that it just might work (so, yes, I *am* nuts!).

> Sometimes I get an idea in my head, and I have to see it through, but I
> suggest you take a deep breath and let this one go.

I couldn't agree more.  But in this case I don't think I'm being overly
stubborn, besides simply very curious to see what happens.

Thanks for all the info, folks!  It's all VERY valuable to me!

Cheers,

Matt Cheselka
Cosmic Lettuce

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