How to Start Container Gardening

Container gardening is a great way to get your green thumb white hot in no time. The same principles used for traditional gardening apply, just on a smaller scale. Container gardening also gives you the ability to garden in applications where traditional gardening can be trickyincluding patios, decks, balconies, even office settings. All you need are the proper containers, plants, and soil.

Setting Up Your Container Garden

Before you buy any plants, you'll need to select containers purchased from your local garden center or special pottery retailer. Consider the shape and size of your containers. Remember that you won't be able to include as many plants in smaller containers than you can in large spades.

Window boxes, hanging baskets, and whiskey barrels are just a few of the most popular containers you can choose from. Be sure to select a container that is durable and provides good airflow. If possible, select one with a drain - it will help keep your plants happy and healthy.

The Container Garden Soil

Next, consider the soil. Traditional soil won't do; it will be far too heavy for your container garden. Choose a lighter soil such as potting mix or an enriched planting mix like Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix, both of which are available at most home and garden stores. These soils are specially developed and designed for container gardening.

If you're looking for something more sustainable and eco-friendly, consider using vermiculite and perlite, compost, and peat. All of these will help to lighten up your soil, improve drainage, and provide superior aeration.

Selecting Your Container Garden Plants

Finally, it's time to pick out your plants. Herbs, peppers, tomatoes, and strawberries all do well in container gardens. You can even plant trees in large pots. When selecting your plants, pay attention to their light and water requirements in order for them to thrive.

If you prefer a container garden that changes with the seasons, consider adding annual flowers. These flowers bloom for a season and then you can replace them with winter flowers. You can even create a container garden for fall with mums, pansies, and festive pumpkins.

Tips for Planting

Before you begin planting, make sure your container is the proper size for your plants. You want to ensure that your plant has enough space to grow. If your container is too small, divide up your plants and plant them in separate containers. Planting your plants in separate containers will help you keep track of their individual water and light requirements.

You can also spruce up your container with gardening accessories, adding attractive stones or shells for decoration. When you're ready to fill up your container with soil, make sure you fill each pot about three-fourths full of soil. Water the soil before planting and once the plants are in the container, lightly pack the soil around them. Be sure to provide enough water to saturate the roots.

Wrapping Up: A Brief Recap Of Container Gardening

Container gardening is an easy and rewarding way to get your hands dirty and explore your inner green thumb. With the right containers, soil, and plants, you can design a beautiful container garden that fits any environment and any budget. All you need is a few basics, a little bit of knowledge, and immediately you will see the results.

Container gardening is a great way to incorporate green into any setting while giving you a sense of accomplishment for growing something of your own. So get your hands dirty, breathe in that fresh earthy smell, and enjoy your container garden.