Container Gardening
Everybody can grow flowers and vegetables. Yes, we mean
everybody. No matter where you love, no matter how small your space. For
people with little space for their favorite plants, container gardening is
often the answer. You can grow almost anything in a container garden.
Small and compact, you can put a container on your balcony or deck, or in
a sunny window. Some people hang containers from a ceiling or against a
wall.
Imagination is the key to container gardens. First imagine
what kind of plants you want to grow. Second, imagine the type of
containers. Then, imagine the bountiful harvest of flowers and/or
vegetables that you will enjoy because it is certainly within your reach.
Selecting the right plants:
The right plants are the ones you select to grow. They can
be flowers, vegetables or even small bushes. While most people
traditionally think of small plants, if you really want to grow a
particular plant, give it a try. Very few plants are not suited for
container gardens. Corn for example, may make an unsuitable vegetable as
it takes numerous plants to properly pollinate the ears. But, most others
are just fine. Even vining plants can be used. Some people grow pumpkins
and squash in containers from their deck and let the vines hang down the
deck or sprawl across the floor. One woman I know just had to grow
pumpkins. So, she planted them in an old kiddie pool...on top of her
apartment complex in downtown Los Angeles!
Types of Containers:
There is virtually no limit to the type of container you
can use. And, here is where the fun begins. Use your creative side and
find some container suitable to your tastes and decor. Buckets, barrels,
watering cans, vats, to name just a few.
Size is also important. If you are selecting larger
plants, then a large container is required. Many plants do not like to be
root bound, so make sure to provide ample size. Depth and width of the
container is equally important as roots spread out and down from the stem.
Tips:
Container plants dry out easily. Make sure to check them
and water daily if necessary. The smaller the container, the more frequent
the watering. If you are going away, have a neighbor check them.
Containers need to have proper drainage. The container you
use needs to have holes in the bottom for drainage. Plants roots will rot
in overly wet or water-logged soil. Usually, three or four holes will do.
Add fertilizer regularly. Frequent watering will wash out
important nutrients. Try slow release fertilizers.
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