As Seen On Tv Topsy Turvy

The Topsy Turvy planter, famously advertised "as seen on TV," is a unique gardening system designed to grow plants upside down. This article will delve into the specifics of the Topsy Turvy planter, exploring its functionality, benefits, potential drawbacks, and the science behind upside-down gardening, to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone considering this innovative approach to growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Introduction

The Topsy Turvy planter gained popularity for its promise of simplifying gardening while increasing yields. The idea of hanging plants upside down intrigued many, offering a novel approach to growing tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and other popular garden staples. This method claimed to reduce ground pests, eliminate the need for weeding, and make gardening accessible to those with limited space. But how does it really work, and does it live up to the hype? Let's dive into the details of the Topsy Turvy.

What is a Topsy Turvy Planter?

The Topsy Turvy planter is essentially an inverted planting container, typically made from durable, UV-resistant polyethylene. The design features a harness or hanging system that allows the planter to be suspended from a sturdy support, such as a tree branch, porch railing, or specialized stand.

Here's a breakdown of the key components:

Planting Container: This is the main body of the Topsy Turvy, where the soil and plant reside. It is designed to hold enough soil to support the plant's root system throughout its growing cycle.
Planting Port: A hole at the bottom of the container (which becomes the top when hung) where the plant is initially placed. This port is usually fitted with a retaining mechanism to hold the plant securely in place.
Watering System: The top of the container (which becomes the bottom when hung) has an opening for watering. The planter is designed to distribute water evenly throughout the soil.
Hanging Mechanism: This could be a series of straps, chains, or a single heavy-duty hook that allows the planter to be suspended securely.

How Does the Topsy Turvy Work?

The premise behind the Topsy Turvy is simple: you plant a seedling upside down, and gravity does the rest. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the planting process:

Preparation: Moisten the soil mix you'll be using (usually a lightweight potting mix) and have your seedling ready.
Planting: Gently insert the roots of the seedling through the planting port at the bottom of the Topsy Turvy. Secure the plant in place using the provided clips or foam inserts.
Filling: Carefully fill the planter with the moistened soil mix, gently packing it around the plant's roots.
Watering: Water the soil thoroughly through the opening at the top of the planter.
Hanging: Suspend the Topsy Turvy from a sturdy support in a location that receives ample sunlight.
Maintenance: Continue to water regularly, monitor for pests and diseases, and fertilize as needed.

Benefits of Using a Topsy Turvy Planter

The Topsy Turvy offers several potential benefits that make it an attractive option for gardeners, especially those with limited space or physical constraints.

Space Saving: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. The Topsy Turvy allows you to grow plants vertically, utilizing overhead space that would otherwise go unused. This is ideal for apartment balconies, small patios, and urban gardens.
Pest Reduction: By suspending plants off the ground, the Topsy Turvy can help reduce the incidence of ground-dwelling pests and diseases that can plague traditional gardens. Slugs, snails, and soil-borne pathogens are less likely to reach the plants.
Weed Elimination: Since the plants are grown in a contained environment, weeding is virtually eliminated. This saves time and effort, making gardening more enjoyable.
Accessibility: The hanging design can make gardening more accessible for individuals with mobility issues. There's no need to bend over or kneel to tend to the plants.
Increased Air Circulation: Hanging plants benefit from improved air circulation, which can help prevent fungal diseases and promote healthier growth.
Novelty and Aesthetics: The Topsy Turvy provides a unique and visually appealing way to grow plants. The upside-down display can be a conversation starter and add a touch of whimsy to any garden space.

Potential Drawbacks and Challenges

While the Topsy Turvy offers numerous advantages, it's essential to be aware of potential drawbacks and challenges:

Watering Requirements: Upside-down planters tend to dry out more quickly than traditional in-ground gardens or container gardens. This is because the exposed soil surface is more susceptible to evaporation. Regular watering is crucial, especially during hot weather.
Nutrient Leaching: Water draining from the bottom of the planter can carry away essential nutrients. Frequent fertilization may be necessary to maintain healthy plant growth.
Plant Selection: Not all plants are well-suited for upside-down growing. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and certain herbs tend to perform best. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes are not suitable.
Weight Considerations: When filled with soil and a mature plant, the Topsy Turvy can become quite heavy. It's crucial to ensure that the hanging support is strong enough to bear the weight.
Initial Plant Establishment: Getting the plant established in the upside-down position can be challenging. The seedling may struggle to adjust to the unusual orientation.
Limited Root Space: Depending on the size of the Topsy Turvy, the limited root space can restrict the plant's growth potential. Larger plants may become root-bound and require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Wind Sensitivity: Hanging planters are more susceptible to wind damage than plants grown in the ground. Strong winds can cause the planter to sway violently, potentially damaging the plant or dislodging it from the planting port.
Aesthetics (for some): While some appreciate the unique look, others may find the upside-down appearance unnatural or less aesthetically pleasing than traditional gardening methods.

Tips for Success with the Topsy Turvy

To maximize your chances of success with the Topsy Turvy, consider these tips:

Choose the Right Plants: Select plant varieties that are known to perform well in upside-down planters, such as determinate tomatoes (bush varieties), peppers, cucumbers, and certain herbs like basil and oregano.
Use a Lightweight Potting Mix: A lightweight, well-draining potting mix is essential to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged and to provide adequate aeration for the roots. Avoid using garden soil, as it can be too heavy and compact.
Start with Healthy Seedlings: Begin with healthy, vigorous seedlings that have a well-developed root system. This will give them a better chance of adapting to the upside-down environment.
Water Regularly: Check the soil moisture daily and water thoroughly when the top inch feels dry. Consider using a watering can with a long spout to reach the top of the planter easily.
Fertilize Regularly: Provide plants with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks to replenish nutrients that may be lost through leaching.
Provide Adequate Sunlight: Position the Topsy Turvy in a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day.
Protect from Wind: If your area is prone to strong winds, consider providing some protection for the Topsy Turvy, such as hanging it in a sheltered location or using a windbreak.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases. Treat any problems promptly with appropriate organic or chemical controls.
Rotate the Planter: Periodically rotate the planter to ensure that all sides of the plant receive equal sunlight.
Consider a Self-Watering System: To reduce the frequency of watering, consider adding a self-watering reservoir to the bottom of the Topsy Turvy. This will help maintain consistent soil moisture.

The Science Behind Upside-Down Gardening

While the Topsy Turvy may seem like a gimmick, there's some scientific basis for why upside-down gardening can be successful:

Apical Dominance: Plants exhibit a phenomenon called apical dominance, where the main stem (the apex) suppresses the growth of lateral branches. In the Topsy Turvy, the plant's apex is pointing downwards, which can help reduce apical dominance and encourage the growth of more side shoots and fruits.
Gravity and Nutrient Distribution: Gravity plays a role in distributing water and nutrients throughout the plant. In the upside-down position, gravity helps to deliver water and nutrients directly to the root zone.
Increased Light Exposure: Hanging plants can receive more sunlight than plants grown in the ground, as they are not shaded by surrounding vegetation. This can lead to increased photosynthesis and higher yields.
Reduced Competition: In a traditional garden, plants compete for resources like sunlight, water, and nutrients. The Topsy Turvy eliminates this competition, allowing the plant to thrive in its own isolated environment.

However, it's important to note that the scientific evidence supporting the benefits of upside-down gardening is limited. While some studies have shown that it can increase yields in certain crops, other studies have found no significant difference between upside-down and traditional gardening methods. The success of the Topsy Turvy likely depends on a variety of factors, including plant selection, growing conditions, and proper care.

Alternative Upside-Down Gardening Methods

The Topsy Turvy is just one example of an upside-down gardening system. There are other methods and DIY approaches that gardeners can explore:

DIY Upside-Down Buckets: You can easily create your own upside-down planters using plastic buckets. Simply drill a hole in the bottom of the bucket, insert the plant, and fill with soil.
Upside-Down Tomato Planters: Several commercial upside-down tomato planters are available, offering variations on the Topsy Turvy design.
Hanging Baskets: While not strictly upside-down, hanging baskets offer a similar space-saving and pest-reducing benefits.
Wall-Mounted Planters: Vertical wall-mounted planters can be used to create living walls or to grow herbs and vegetables in a small space.

FAQ About Topsy Turvy Planters

What plants grow best in a Topsy Turvy? Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, eggplant, strawberries, and herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
How often should I water my Topsy Turvy? Check the soil daily and water when the top inch feels dry, usually once or twice a day depending on the weather.
Do I need to fertilize my Topsy Turvy? Yes, fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or as needed based on the plant's growth.
Can I use regular garden soil in a Topsy Turvy? No, use a lightweight potting mix to ensure good drainage and aeration.
How much weight can a Topsy Turvy hold? This depends on the specific model and the strength of your hanging support, but generally, it can hold up to 50 pounds when fully loaded with soil and a mature plant.
How do I prevent the soil from falling out when I first plant? Use the provided clips or foam inserts to secure the plant and gently pack the soil around the roots.
What if my plant is not growing well? Ensure it's getting enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Check for pests or diseases. Consider rotating the planter for even light exposure.

Conclusion

The Topsy Turvy planter offers an innovative and space-saving way to grow plants upside down. While it presents certain challenges, such as increased watering needs and limited plant selection, the potential benefits of pest reduction, weed elimination, and accessibility make it an appealing option for many gardeners. By understanding the principles behind upside-down gardening and following the tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a bountiful harvest from your Topsy Turvy. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the Topsy Turvy provides a unique and engaging way to connect with nature and grow your own food.