At first glance, this might look like an unusual way to grow tomatoes. But there are several benefits to hanging tomatoes in buckets. First, the air can circulate better so the plants have almost no disease problems. Second, the fruit doesn’t rot as quickly as that on the ground. And finally, some critters that eat tomatoes have trouble getting to the ripening fruit.

To make the upside-down containers, you need a 5-gallon bucket with lid. You can find them many places, such as paint or hardware stores.

Scrub each bucket out with soapy water and makes sure the handle is attached securely. Next, cut a 2-inch or larger diameter hole in the center of the lid and one in the bottom of the bucket. To make the holes, use a drill with a hole saw bit (an attachment for cutting a door to install the doorknob).

With the bucket standing upright and the lid off, cover the hole in the bottom with a coffee filter or scrap of fabric. That way the soil won’t fall out when you turn the bucket over. Fills the bucket full of a lightweight potting mix, shaking it to settle the soil.