Top 10 List of Tips for Container Gardening Using Garden Pots
Container gardens have been around for quite some time and are gaining in popularity. In many instances, such as high-rise or apartment living, the only option for a garden is to place your plants in garden pots. Here is a short list of considerations on using garden pots in your own garden:
1. Choose the Proper Material
Garden pots are made from a large variety of materials, like clay, plastic and stone. Some of these materials are more durable than others and some more stylish. How you will use the pots will help you narrow down the options.
2. Size Matters
If you have your plants picked out (or at least an idea of what you are looking for), you will be able to determine how big your garden pots will have to be. As an example, small trees or tomato plants will require a larger pot simply because their root systems are bigger.
3. Add Variety to the Sizes of Pots
If you want your garden to "pop", then vary the sizes of the pots (and plants) you use. Scale your pots so the farther back they are, the larger they get.
4. Grouping Your Garden Pots
By grouping small and mid-sized pots near and around a larger pot, you will add a lot of interest and a focal point in your garden.
5. Place Plants That Require The Same Amount of Watering In Each Pot
Obviously, you shouldn't put a water-loving plant (like a fern) in with a group of cactus. Watering requirements should be the same for all the plants in a single pot.
6. Place Plants That Require The Same Amount of Sunlight In Each Pot
Pots left in direct sunlight dry up very quickly because of their small size. Try to place them where they get some shade at least part of the day.
7. Pick Hardy Plants That Don't Need Much Water
Since pots are relatively small, they tend to dry up pretty fast. Choosing plants that require less water will make your container garden easier to maintain and will also be more forgiving.
8. Proper Drainage Is Essential
Most pots come with drain holes in them. If they don't you will have to drill them yourself. Over the hole, place either a couple of layers of newspaper or a piece of broken pot to allow for drainage but keeping the soil from spilling out the bottom.
9. Add a Water Sealant to Terracotta Pots
Left unsealed, terracotta pots soak up the water that is intended for your plants. Making sure the inside of the pot is clean, brush on a good water sealant (on the inside only).
10. Use Potting Soil
For pots, its best to use a good potting soil as they are specially blended for this purpose. Potting soils are lighter in weight than normal soil and they hold water much better.
Before you decide to purchase any type of garden pot for your container garden, visit Keith Maiden's web site: AllGardenPots.com for more information on container gardening.
