Container gardening is a fun and exciting way to enjoy gardening in a limited space or in areas where we would not otherwise be able to plant.
When it comes to growing plants in pots, think BIG! The larger the container, the better. Starting plants in larger containers will result in healthier root systems, less watering, and will produce more flowers and healthier foliage. Container gardening can be carried out in above ground pots, baskets, boxes or barrels.
Think outside the "box" when planning your container garden. Flowers can be mixed with herb plants, use vegetables such as tomatoes or peppers instead of flowers, consider landscape trees and shrubs or mix annual flowers with perennials.
The container, with adequate holes on the bottom for drainage, should be filled with a high quality potting mix to within a couple of inches of the rim. Garden soil has a tendency to settle and harden so choose a prepared potting soil that is specifically formulated for potted plants and contains a mix of sterilized peat moss and perilite that provides the correct levels of aeration and water retention. If you're using an extra large pot, consider placing sand or gravel on the bottom of the container. The gravel will improve drainage.
Start with larger plants. They will fill the pot and look great as soon as they are planted. Consider the needs and habits of the plants you're using (don't mix a plant that likes it hot and dry with one that needs shade and lots of water).
Place your plants in the container at the same depth they were in their original container and be careful not to overcrowd the plants. As you remove the plants from their original containers, gently shake off the dirt and spread the roots. Dunking the root ball in water before planting will make the root ball more malleable. Be careful not to overcrowd the plants when placing them in the container, as this will cause problems as the plants grow and fill out. Place the tallest plant at the back of the pot and then work from back to front according to plant size.
Plants grown in containers will require more water than plants grown in the ground. When the potting soil just below the surface feels dry, water! During hot, dry, windy weather more frequent watering maybe necessary - depending upon weather conditions this may mean everyday or several times throughout the day. The correct way to water is to gently drench your plants until you see a trickle of moisture coming out of the drain hole. Don't let your container dry out completely as this can cause the plants to wilt, delay flowering and ultimately die. Too much water can cause root rot. And remember, if you're going on vacation call upon a neighbor or friend to tend your containers while you're away.
Feeding your plants is also important in order to maintain a healthy, productive container garden. Since container gardens require more water than in-ground gardens, nutrients can be leached out of the soil and need to be replenished by using both time release and water-soluable fertilizers. Weekly feedings with a product such as Miracle Grow helps the plants get the food they need. At the time of planting, a time release fertilizer can also be added to your potting soil.
At the end of the growing season, empty containers and store in a protected area. If you are unable to to empty the container, remove all the plant material and allow soil to dry out to prevent freezing and cracking of the pot.
Have fun designing and growing a distinctive container garden.