@hollyho I just wanted to chime in on the SIP’s. I am a natural soil grower. I was doing a bunch of reading and was all over the octo pots. I was actually looking at what Octo package I was going to buy.
A friend told me to to check out Sip’s. After a bunch of research and some youtube videos I built my 1st DIY SIP. I would have to venture into the garden to tell you how many SIP’s I have now but I can tell you that If I had the time and 
I would be growing 100% in SIP’s. I have seen amazing things happen with my SIP plants. I have experimented with all kinds of Soil growing techniques in my SIPs. They are absolutely amazing. Best thing is no matter the growing style I tested on my SIP’s they produce absolutely great plants.
You should check out 
All I can tell you is once you grow in a good SIP you will be hooked 100%.
If you are looking for absolutely amazing results and like to watch your plants grow with minimal inputs SIP’s are your ticket.
I would not run out an buy an earthbox just yet! I would make your own on the cheap. I have a tutorial on how to make a really easy 7.5 gal SIP below. Experiment with a DIY SIP to see if it works for you and your growing style.
The principal for making a larger SIP is the same. The one in the tutorial is pretty small but you can still grow some good size plants in there.
The plant in this picture was water only down the reservoir.
I am using kitchen scraps to feed the worms only.
No amendments other than Kitchen Scraps so far.
I have a video below to check out . YT will make you sign in to view but I can tell you it is worth it.
Can’t wait to see ya over at @CrunchBerries probiotic SIP post.
