Stuck with a green thumb and a patio? Maybe you're new to gardening and aren't ready to jump in with both feet, or perhaps you just don't have time to tackle the entire green space behind your house. Don't distress: you can make that space into your own garden wonderland using containers.
Container gardening is an ideal choice for people with limited time, or those who may have difficulties getting up and down to the ground. Using pots offers flexibility and the chance to experiment - if your plants aren't doing well you can simple move them to another spot. Perfect for areas with poor soil conditions, containers are also more wheelchair friendly than traditional gardens. They provide a wonderful opportunity for children to learn to grow and can be set up on the tiniest back patio or fire escape.
Planting a traditional garden in the city can be nearly impossible, but using containers means that even the thickest concrete jungle can support plant life. With rising food prices, containers are great solution for families on a budget - allowing anyone to harvest fresh herbs, vegetables and even fruit in an urban environment. They also make a beautiful addition to any yard, providing an accent or focal point that can be relocated as the mood strikes.
Almost anything can be used as a pot, so this is a great way to get creative and create a unique look. Old wagons, bathtubs, teapots, boots - the sky's the limit. However, keep in mind that wood tends to rot (although cedar is quite resilient), plastic can weaken in the sun and terra cotta can dry out and crack, so it will require extra care. Remember that whatever you use should be clean and sterilized and have sufficient drainage. In addition to drilling holes in your pot, a layer of rocks in the bottom will help. It's also more practical to choose containers with wider openings.
When planting, you'll want to consider sizes and group like plants together. Start by planting the tallest plants in the center of the container, work your way out with shorter varieties and leave trailing choices for the edges.
When thinking of how to fill your containers, remember to group plants by similar lighting needs. For instance, leafy vegetables can tolerate shade better than root vegetables. Plants that bear fruit, such as tomatoes or peppers need even more sun than root vegetables. If your plants aren't doing well in their current position you can move them around.
If you are choosing large containers, you may want to fill the bottom half with empty cans or plastic bottles to save soil and keep the container lighter. You don't want to throw your back out lugging your container garden through the backyard. That said vegetables may require deeper pots to accommodate their roots. Also, if you plant perennials you will have to consider moving your pots in the winter, either inside the house or to an unheated shed.
Finally, use compost, manure tea or fertilizer to provide regular nutrients for your plants and remember to give them enough water.
That's it - just a few simple steps and voila! You can enjoy a beautiful greenscape regardless of your space or ability. So go ahead, get gardening today. You'll be surprised at what you can do.
