Container Gardening

By Mary Jo Baur

I'm sure most gardeners have tried their hands at growing plants in some type of container.  There are both advantages and disadvantages with this type of planting.  Containers can add lots of color to areas where you can't plant, such as on your deck or balcony.  It lets you move things around easily, if you like.  I think the main problem or concern is the issue of watering.  If you can't be around to water daily, most container plants will dry up and die.  Some things to think about when you plant a container: are the flowers a type that like lots of sun (if that's where your pot will be), is my container large enough for what I want to grow (the plant's mature size, not the seedling you put in in the spring), and can someone care for this if I am away?  Of course, you can place your pot in the shade with flowers that do well in that environment and so reduce the watering needs.  Planting succulents is another choice.

The type of container you use is also a consideration.  Purists will say you should only use terra cotta planters.  They have a nice, natural look; but because they are not glazed pottery, they dry out very quickly.  There are many colorful ceramic pots that are glazed and therefore retain moisture better.  And of course there are plastic and fiberglass.  They retain water the best, but can drown your roots if there is too much rain.  You need to decide what will work best for you.  Experiment to see which you like.  I actually have a mix of the 3 main kinds.

Be sure to use a potting soil that is meant for containers.  It's usually a lighter mix so a hanging pot won't weigh a ton. There are also kinds that are labeled "moisture control" which have an ingredient included which will retain water and slowly release it.

Now that you've picked your container and soil, what will you grow?  Annual flowers are probably the most common choice, but perennials are possible.  I also like to grow a cherry tomato in a pot on my deck as well as basil or other herbs, so that they are handy to the kitchen.

If you haven't attempted container gardening, I hope you'll give it a try.