I hear you on the creature attacks. We had pack rats eating my plants during the very early spring. I used non-killing traps and removed 4 of them far out into the desert. The birds strip other things. It is work for sure. Would love to hear about how your plants do this summer. I have some pumpkin vines but have had to put shade up for them, they are frying.
I have not found any good sources for inexpensive large pots. I get smaller ones at the Dollar type stores for flowers.
