Container Gardening--some Basics

Hello again,

I found this following article at http://www.ezincearticles.com/. It is a good quick read about what to think about before you undertake container gardening. This is a fast growing way to grow and display some of your favorite flowering plants in a more controlled and even vertical environment. Many people are now growing vegetables in containers. Later this Spring we are planning a class or two on container gardening.

Here is the article:


"Container gardening allows you to change your color schemes as the different plants finish blooming. It does not matter whether you want to harmonize or contrast your colors; just make sure you have a variety of plant heights. Also consider the shape of the leaves. The taller plants work well in the background while lower-growing varieties work towards the front of the pots. It is also wise to choose long blooming plants for less maintenance.

You may also find it fun to try out unusual containers. Maybe you have some old bowls lying around or you want to try building something out of old lumber. If you are purchasing new containers, choose the ones that do not absorb your water. Terracotta pots look wonderful but they rob your plants the moisture they need by absorbing it into the container walls.

If you purchase the cheaper plastic pots, you can paint the outside with water-based paints in order to create a better looking effect. Don't forget to buy matching saucers to catch the drips. This will save cement floors getting stained or wood floors from rotting.

Another important factor to successful container gardening is the potting soil. You will want to use a potting soil that has moisture saving granules mixed into the soil. The granules will soak up the water as it is applied and then release it slowly over the day to keep the plants healthy.

To keep your plants looking spectacular you will want to make sure the containers placed in sunny locations get water every morning and each evening.

You will also want to determine ahead of time where you will be placing the containers as some plants need sunlight and some need shade. Try to stay away from plants that have larger root systems as those types should be grown directly into flower beds.

With some creative thought and determination, you will soon have a blooming container garden that will be the envy of friends and strangers alike. "

Mike Skillin
Skillin's Greenhouses
January 18, 2010