Container Gardening

Container Gardening is gardening in pots, boxes, buckets, or some other “container” in any shape or size, as long as some plants fit in it. It is a great and easy way to grow flowers and vegies. You can use them in your garden, or on your balcony or terrace. Throughout the year you can plant new flowers or plants – Spring – Summer and Autumn.

When you are deciding what to plant in your containers, here are a few guidelines to follow: When choosing to grow in containers, look for “dwarf”, “bush”, or “compact” varieties. These are smaller versions of full-size plants that do better in containers.

Because containers limit the size of the roots and available water, some plants are better suited to grow in containers. Adding an irrigation system to your container helps provide regular water for your plants. We have a great post on irrigation systems as well.

Here we keep it simple. Consider this the beginners guide to container gardening. Just try it out!

Sum it up – Successful Container Gardening:

1. Choose the Right Containers: Select containers that have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Ensure the containers are large enough to accommodate the mature size of the plants you intend to grow. Materials like plastic, ceramic, or wood are commonly used for container gardening.
2. Use High-Quality Potting Mix: Invest in a good quality potting mix rather than using garden soil. Potting mixes are specially formulated to provide adequate drainage, aeration, and nutrients for container plants. Avoid using soil from your garden, as it may compact in containers and hinder root growth.
3. Consider Plant Needs: Different plants have different requirements for sunlight, water, and space. Before planting, research the specific needs of the plants you’ve chosen and group together those with similar requirements. This will help you create an environment where all your plants can thrive together.
4. Water Regularly and Monitor Moisture Levels: Container plants often require more frequent watering than those in the ground, as containers can dry out quickly, especially in warm weather. Check the moisture level of the soil regularly by sticking your finger into the top inch or two of soil. Water thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering, which can suffocate roots.
5. Provide Adequate Light: Most plants require adequate sunlight to grow and flourish. Place your containers in locations that receive the appropriate amount of sunlight for the plants you’re growing. If you have limited sunlight, consider choosing plants that thrive in low light conditions or supplementing with artificial grow lights.