Organic container gardening is one way to enjoy the bounty of fresh vegetables and herbs even when you do not have a lot of space. Apartment dwellers and others who have limited space, are turning to container gardening. Taking gardening a step further using only natural organic methods also eliminates the harmful effects of toxic fertilizers and pesticides. One of the key aspects of container gardening is using the proper size container. Pots are not a natural growing medium for vegetables and herbs. Most vegetables need room to grow deep in the soil, but not so much room that they spend time developing roots and not fruits. Take the time to make plan your organic container and make wise choices about the containers for your patio crop.
Plant growth is restricted by the size of containers you use. This is why it is important to take into account the types of vegetables you want to grow. Full size tomato plants. cucumber and squash require at least a 5-gallon bucket size container or a half-whiskey barrel for optimal growth and fruit production. Peppers and cherry tomatoes benefit from a container holding 2-gallons of soil mixture. Lettuces, radishes and herbs do well in 6-inch to 10-inch containers. A good rule of thumb is to use containers that are at least ? the size of a full grown plant.
The material of your container is a factor when it comes to amount of water the plant requires. Containers come in porous and non-porous materials. Many organic gardeners choose to use porous containers such as terra-cotta clay pots, whiskey barrels, bushel baskets and other containers made from natural materials. Porous materials allow the soil to breathe providing plant roots oxygen, and also draw out water preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged and causing root rot.
Non-porous containers such as food-grade 5-gallon buckets and commercial resin pots are a popular choice among many container gardeners. It is important to note that although non-porous containers have a tendency to hold water, the soil also dries out quickly. This is due in part because the material the pot is made from heats up the soil in the sun.
Any container you choose needs to have proper drainage capabilities. Container gardening in pots that do not have good drainage leads to root rot, disease and pests. Ideally you want to have at least 5 unobstructed drainage holes in each of your containers. If the holes are on the bottom of the container, ensure that there is sufficient room for the water to drain out of the container.
Planning ahead for your container garden is a good way to ensure you have the correct size containers for your vegetables and herbs. Look on the back of seed packets for information on mature plant size as well as soil volumes necessary for optimum growth. A little planning and the correct pots will help you have a successful container gardening experience.
Ohio State University Fact Sheet: Container Vegetable Gardening
AgriLife Extension/Texas A&M System: Vegetable Gardening In Containers
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