Container Gardening

Pot Selection

Many varieties are available, inexpensive plastic, terra cotta, glazed terra cotta, bronze, cement resin, and fiberglass.

Unexpected Containers

Old wicker baskets, Grandpa’s discarded boots, a large boulder with a concave indentation, and old chair…can make a visitor smile. Keep drainage in mind when seeking out unusual containers.

Pot Size

The container must hold enough potting mix for plants to root securely and supply sufficient moisture and nutrients to sustain growth.

Soil Selection

A soil-less mixture that combines fertilizer and moisture retention is ideal for container gardening. Exceptions would be succulents, cacti, shrubs and perennials.

Water

Watering requirements are extremely important with container gardening. Avoid watering the foliage as disease and sunscald could become a problem. Watering in the early morning is the best time. However, during hot spells and especially if the pot is in full sun, you may need to water twice or more a day. Only water when soil is dry. Many a container is killed by overwatering.

Drainage

Always use a pot with drainage. If you don’t have a hole in the container, use a drill to make one. The old way was to put rocks in the bottom of the pot. I find this makes the pot too heavy and often this method may actually retain more water. I like to cover the hole with a piece of landscape fabric to keep the soil from running out onto your table, deck, or whatever. If the pot is in a saucer, come back after watering and pour the excess water from the saucer. If the pot sits directly on a non-porous surface, you may need to elevate the pot on a few rocks or bricks to allow for proper drainage.

Fertilizing

Since you are constantly flushing out nutrients with watering , additional fertilizing is necessary and recommended throughout the season. A bloom booster type of fertilizer is perfect for annuals and perennials. If you notice yellowing of leaves or less flowering, you may need additional fertilizer.

Pinching, Pruning and Whacking Back

Every spring I see shoppers purchasing plants that are in full bloom to pot up. Most annuals perform 100% better if all the blooms are pinched off at time of planting. The plants will then branch out and give you more flowers.

Pests and Disease

You will have fewer problems if the plants are healthy and situated in the plants’ preferred locations. A stressed out plant calls to be attacked by aphids. An overwatered plant begs for fungus to visit. A plant situated next to a deer path will become a dinner bowl. Slugs and earwigs can find planters too.