Gardening in Containers

Garden containers and pots used to be popular for geraniums and other small flowers. Today the decorative containers are being used to enhance gardens with a variety of flowers. There is no limit as to what can be planted in them. The containers are used to add color to patios and decks turning them into picturesque and relaxing areas. The containers can be an alternate solution to creating an entire garden in small areas.

Choosing the Right Container is Important

Gardening containers come in many shapes, sizes, designs, and colors. They are made from various materials such as plastic, wood, ceramic, stone, and fiberglass and can be bought in any name brand store and vary in cost. Buy the right size container for the appropriate spot. A big pot placed in a small area can be overwhelming. The containers also need to be the correct size for the plants or flowers going in them. If the containers are going to be placed outdoors all year long, be sure they made to sustain the cold weather. Metal, plastic, and fiberglass hold nicely in outdoors all year.

Using the Correct Soil

Use an artificial soil with a peat base for all containers. Regular potting soil will become clumpy when watered preventing the roots from growing. Artificial soil contains a natural mineral that increases drainage, eliminating the need to place pebbles or a few rocks at the bottom of the container. When using a container to grow a tree or shrub, purchase soil from a nursery. They mix their own soil made with bark that will allow water to drain from the container.

Use a fertilizer that has a large amount of phosphorus when planting flowers and a fertilizer with nitrogen for plants. There are organic fertilizers available that contain natural ingredients and provide nutrients to the plants. For more information on soil, visit Doug’s Green Simple Gifts.

Taking Care of Flowers and Plants in Containers

There is some maintenance required when growing flowers and plants in containers

• Water plants on a daily basis.
• Remove dead flowers and faded leaves to keep the flowers and plants looking fresh.
• Fertilize the soil often. After a few watering cycles, the fertilizer will drain out of the container.
• Insulate perennials that will be outdoors all winter by covering them.
• Protect containers that will be in the cold weather by placing them under a porch or against the house for protection.

Using containers for gardening will take some care but is rewarding in the end. For more information on gardening in containers, visit Garden Guides.