Monday, October 5, 2009

Container Gardening

Over the last several years, the increase in the amount of people living in condominiums and/or apartments has spawned the need for new ideas in container gardening.

If you are feeling creative, and want to give this type of gardening a try, there are several things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the container you choose is large enough for the plant(s) you have chosen. Drainage is very important, so make sure there is at least one drainage hole in the bottom of the pot. Secondly, it is a good idea to put something in the bottom of the pot before adding soil to help with the drainage. I use broken clay pieces from previously chipped or cracked clay pots that I then break apart with a hammer.

Make sure to water the soil well before planting and then at least twice again after filling in with soil around the plant. This helps to eliminate any air pockets in the soil. Container plants will have to be watered more often than those in the ground to keep them from drying out.

Typically, when using more than one plant in a pot at the same time, it is best for visual purposes, to have the taller plant in the center of the pot, with lower growing/draping plants around the outside. Additionally, make sure when grouping plants in the same pot that they have the same light, and watering requirements.

There are so many amazing combinations that will look stunning in containers. Some combinations that are all one color are just as appealing to the eye as several different colors. Happy planting!

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