Container gardens are need of the hour. Space is definitely a luxury in our urban lifestyle. Besides space advantage, containers are simple and fun. For starters, the container garden plants are placed in pots rather than in the ground.
Drill drainage holes
According to current practices, consider having four holes at the bottom of the container. It ensures even and effective drainage. Otherwise the plant doesn’t have access to moisture below the ground. When there are no bottom holes, they dry very quickly. If the container you purchased doesn’t have holes, drill them yourself. Nevertheless, it doesn’t take away the need for consistent watering.
Use potting soil
Ensure you get potting soil for your plant. Provide pots with toppings throughout the season. Your regular soil doesn’t fulfill drainage requirements. The plants will feel lack of nutrients too. Potting soil provides the environment where the potted plant can thrive. With the right soil and large pot, you can even keep plants that are not native to the land. When you have no access to potting soil, develop homemade compost.
Ambient three layer formula
Container garden can be ambient too. It doesn’t have to be only purposeful. Follow a three layer formula that helps create ambience. Firstly place the taller plant right in the middle. Use shorter plant types to place around the taller plant. It can be something that fills the pot and visually contrast the taller plant.
To just fill things up till the edges, add light color vines at the outer ring. It results in a robust and complete looking container. Consider the light and water requirements of the plant. It varies from species to species. Along with spacing details it is provided in the plant purchase tag. If not, consult with a practicing horticulturist.
Outdoor & Indoor
Place your container in a place, where you will sit and relax. These containers can go outdoors as well as indoors. When placing indoors, ensure they are close to the window and receive adequate sunlight. In the case of outdoors, it’s necessary to protect them from cold and drying winds. While keeping them on top of wooden decks, use saucers or other plastic surface to protect the wood beneath it.
Understand colors
You container garden should suit your space. It should reflect your style and go along with the overall ambience. It involves some mix and match of colors, to perfect the visual scene. For instance, green and white gives a subtle classy look. Brighter colors provide for a dynamic setting.
Practical benefits
You don’t have to totally overlook the practical benefits of container garden. Plant something that you can eat. People often plant herbs and vegetables in containers. It allows getting fresh vegetables straight to table. When dealing with vegetable plants, ensure they get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. South or west facing locations are preferred. There is a preferred type of container for different vegetables. For instance, potatoes grow best in large pots or specifically designed sacs.
