If you’re asking yourself “Why Container Garden” and wondering what all the fuss is about then read on. Container gardening has come a long way from a few simple terra cotta pots full of geraniums by the front door. These days it seems like anything goes as long as the container has a hole in it, is capable of holding soil for one growing season and, preferably, has drainage. Once you start noticing what different people are using as containers, you’ll probably agree that beauty is definitely “in the eye of the beholder”. I have seen some containers that left me wishing I had been creative enough to think of it first and some that are so tacky I would never ever put them in my yard. Container choices are as endless as your imagination, but if you consider yourself creatively challenged look around The Garden Guide for more tips and ideas.
Think bigger than pots, baskets and barrels, though, because the world of container gardening also includes more permanent fixtures such as raised beds and planters. Contained gardens are any area, large or small, that consists of a custom soil mix and is separate from the existing landscape in some form or fashion. Planting is so much more enjoyable when there is no struggling to prepare a spot to plant, no battling against the steady onslaught of invasive grasses and no weeding. Just keep in mind that containers do dry out quickly. During the dog days of summer I water most of my containers daily. If now you’re thinking that container gardening isn’t for you since you kill plants on a regular basis by forgetting to water, don’t worry because you’re obviously not alone. There are quite a few products out there to remedy the situation such as potting mix with polymer crystals for retaining moisture, self-watering pots, watering probes and drip systems.
Container gardening opens up a whole new world of plants to choose from since the soil mix and the location of the planter can be adapted to the plants (instead of the other way around). Remember that you are no longer limited to the specific plants that work with your landscape’s lighting, soil condition and water availability. When the conditions of your yard aren’t optimal for your favorite plants, containers help put the ball in your court. Convenience is key when determining location. Even shade loving plants can be enjoyed in a sunny area if containers are grouped to where taller “full sun” plants provide them shade. Containers of less hardy plants that aren’t normally grown in a specific zone can be grown, enjoyed and then simply moved indoors when the elements aren‘t ideal.
Container projects shouldn’t necessarily “break the bank“. Try scavenging garage sales, flea markets and re-sale shops for unique items. Buy up pots at the end of the summer when they go on clearance. For larger projects such as raised beds and planters, try to use natural materials that are widely available in your area. In our area we have an abundance of cedar logs and semi-flat stackable rocks that both make great planters and raised beds relatively cheaply. Just do one container at a time and see how nice it is to have a finished “garden” in no time at all.
So, go ahead, dress up your front walk, steps, entryway or window; give your deck, porch or balcony the feel of a botanical garden. If you miss the taste of homegrown tomatoes, grow some on your patio. Don’t be afraid to put a splash of color in that full shade area or level and plant that sunny slope. The possibilities are truly endless. Just pick an area that you would like to change and get started! Once you get going and discover how easy and fun container gardening is, don’t be surprised to discover that you’re hooked for good.
