Gardening in small spaces can be tricky and limited, but container gardens are an easy and rewarding solution. Use the following easy tips to create a beautiful container garden just about anywhere.
1. Select an appropriate sized container. Consider not just where you will be placing the container, but the size of the plant at full growth as well. Leave plenty of room for roots to spread out and the plant to establish solid footing. Avoid using cheap plastic containers, as they can erode quickly and compromise your handiwork. Ceramic pots are usually your best bet, but can be heavy.
2. Allow for ample drainage. If your chosen container doesn’t have holes at the bottom, make some. Drainage is essential for proper growth and distribution of nutrients. Add a handful of small pebbles before putting the soil in to help the plant best utilize water.
3. Choose top-notch potting soil. Dirt from your backyard probably has too many weeds and other debris that can choke plants as it interferes with growth. It is recommended that you buy high-quality soil specifically formulated for container gardening; it will contain all the necessary nutrients and be well-textured for this type of environment. Soil should be light and fluffy and power-packed with certain elements for food and balance.
4. Water frequently. Container gardens dry out much quicker than standard ground-based gardens, therefore you must water them more frequently. Check conditions daily, particularly in hot and dry weather and add water when the soil is dry. Use a mister to spray different parts of the plant too, simulating conditions of rain that give the plant hydration all over.
5. Add fertilizer. Since the downward drainage tends to wash away a lot of soil nutrients, fertilizer is needed regularly. Depending on your specific type of plant you may need to purchase liquid fertilizer that provides extra essentials. Liquid seaweed fertilizer can make an excellent supplement, as can compost material, however; it is important to be aware of the individual needs of your particular plants.
6. Allow for adequate, but not over-done sunlight. Most plants thrive with plenty of sunlight and container gardens are no exception, but they can be more sensitive and retain excess heat. Make sure the light is given in doses that can be absorbed without overwhelming the plants, especially when they are young. The beauty of container gardens is that they can easily be moved! Simply put them in a good area of sunshine for a while and move them back later, or find the perfect indirect source of sunlight that automatically fulfills their needs without over doing it.
7. Harvest often to encourage extra growth. Pinching spent blooms will help flowers mature to full and gorgeous fruition, and picking vegetables and herbs frequently will extend their growing period. Check out the schedule for your chosen veggies and follow it carefully. Once you are familiar with the process, picking and pinching will become more obvious and your thumb will get greener!
Container gardening is increasingly popular due to its ease and rewards; use the above tips to become a quick master of this process and the envy of your neighborhood!