My Container and Greenhouse Gardening Experience

This web site is for me to document my experiences with growing in containers in my new greenhouse. This is my first time growing in a greenhouse, and my first time using Self Watering Containers. I've learned so much over the past few months from various online resources, now it is time to put that knowledge to action. This isn't to say I won't make mistakes or take the occasional shortcut because I am cheap. (because I will, and I am.)
 
Because there are so many new variables, and a am pretty new to gardening in general I am sticking to basic varieties on most everything I grow. I want to test the techniques and tools more than the plants. Another first for me is a home-made bark based potting mix as discussed extensively by Al, aka 'tapla' at gardenweb.com in the container gardening forums.
 
Here are the main concepts of this seasons growing:
Greenhouse - This will be used to extend the season, protect the crops from wildlife (birds and deer are a huge problem here), and provide a measure of control over everything else.
 
Containers - I am using 30 gallon and 18 gallon Rubbermaid containers converted to self watering containers. I will also be using some smaller 20x14x10" regular containers where I can until I can make more 18 gallon containers. Radishes, lettuce, spinach and herbs will do well in these containers with good drainage.
 
Potting Mix - This is completely different than anything I've done in the past. I am using a home made bark based potting mix. I is roughly 5 parts bark fines (1/4" & smaller), 2 parts shredded sphagnum moss, and about 1 parts perlite (medium / course grade). I based this mix entirely on the information I found on the internet, and take no credit for it at all. I modified the mix based on other peoples experience in self watering containers, increasing the moss content from 1 part to 2 parts to help the capillary action bring water from the SWC reservoir to near the surface.