I have a mess of white 5 gal buckets (pickle containers). I drill four 1/2 inch holes around about 2 inches from the bottom and again (offset) about 4 inches up. They rest on what is essentially a cinder block ledge. about 20 feet long.
It's all about tomatos. The sun is partial sun, partial shade. I have had success enough that I am going to do it again.
But before I do, should I leave the buckets white, or spray paint them gray or black? Obviously, the darker the color, the warmer the soil will be. But how much is too much?
Do tomatos respond well to warmer soil? Or will it get so hot that it could hurt the plant? I am in Zone 7 and the average daytime summer temp is probably about 80 - 85F. We get about a weeks worth of 90 - 95F each season, rarely any higher.
Any thoughts or experiences?
Thank you,
meshmouse