Hello, all! I am brand new to this site and want to thank everyone for sharing all their wonderful work and info. My question concerns Earth Box type planters. Is anyone having success with these for something that stays in longer than one growing season--like a shrub or some perennials? If so, do you dig out and replace the fertilizer band after each season? Why do some planters insist on dry fertilizers while others say add the liquid type to the water? Are the liquids maybe just for indoor plants? If this is doable--any soil recommendations? I am not in a position to do a lot of storing and mixing, but I could probably find the room to add one good amendment to a commercial mix if it would really help. We are coastal and have cool summers. Would light gray boxes work or do I need to stay darker to add heat? [They would be in either am or pm sun on one of 2 2nd floor balconies facing either directly east or directly west]. Also, why do the plants need tight covers on the box? My gut feeling is to want to let them have more air and maybe just lay some shade cloth on the ground around them. I don't mind a few weeds or having to add a bit more water, but if it's a matter of disease or the water turning yucky or something then I would be sure to cover them tightly. Many thanks to everyone for all your input :)!