Elements of a container Garden
If you are limited on outdoor space, consider planting a container garden. Many vegetable and flowers can be grown inside containers. Container gardens can add appeal to any outdoor space. Before starting a container
garden, there are several things one should consider.
When starting a container garden, your first choice will be container. You can choose from hanging baskets, planter boxes, wooden barrels and flowerpots. There are several things the gardener should consider. Plastic pots can deteriorate in the sun. The best pots are made from terracotta. If a wooden box is to be used, choose a box made from redwood or cedar. Other woods may easily rot. Use a container that holds at least 15 quarts of soil. Anything smaller may restrict root growth. After the desired container is selected, drainage holes should be placed every 1/2 inch.
After the pot is selected, the gardener will want to choose a good soil. Compost makes an excellent potting soil. When growing a container garden, soil-less potting soil will work the best. This type of soil allows quick draining. Some plants may require sand to be added to the soil. When adding soil, leave at least two inches of space in the container. This will allow mulch to be added. If fertilizer will be used, a liquid fertilizer works best.
Now that the containers are set up properly, the gardener can begin adding plants. If placing flowers in the containers, choose annuals. These grow the best. Root vegetables and fruiting vegetables will grow best in container gardens.
