I have a bit different perspective in that I don't share the same list of pros/cons.

In my experience it may be a myth that EBs require less frequent watering. It depends on the size of the container. For example if I grow a large tomato plant in an EB I end up watering more often than if I grow 2 large plants in a whiskey barrel half. If I get the barrel on sale I can get them for around $15-$20 which is less than an EB.

I also wouldn't regard the EBs as portable as they weight a ton filled. On a deck/patio if one has the wheels they are OK, but lifting them is not to be taken lightly ;)

I also have never had one bow out at the sides.

Anyway, the disadvantage of them to me is simply the way they look. They aren't particularly decorative though there are expensive alternatives that are a bit more attractive.

The primary benefit is it eliminates a lot of mistakes folks make such as improper/inconsistent watering and if the fertilizer strip is used it eliminates the question of how often and how much.

justaguy,

I think taina is referring to home-made container units that "bow out". I solved this problem of the potting mix going down the sides by first, using a Toggle Bolt on the 2 long sides to secure the outer walls of the EarthTainer to the Aeration Bench:

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I then use a 24" piece of Landscape Fabric to place over the filled wicking basket, before I add in the potting mix. This both keeps any potting mix from going down the sides as well as keeps the roots from going down into the water reservoir, thus making Fall clean-out much easier.

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Raybo

Here is a link that might be useful: EarthTainer .pdf Instructions