Container gardening has been around for centuries and is actually gaining in popularity. In some instances there is no other option BUT to use garden pots for a garden such as high-rise or apartment living. The following is a list of considerations if you are thinking of using garden pots in your own garden:
1. Choosing the Proper Material for Your Garden Pots
Garden pots can be made from a variety of materials. Some heavier, some more durable and some more stylish. By thinking about how the pots will be used, you can narrow down your options.
2. As a Matter of Fact, Size Does Matter
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. Group Your 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. Group Plants Requiring Similar 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. Select Plants That You Put In A Pot That Require The Same Amount of Sunlight
The same goes for how much sunlight your plants require. If you place your pot where they are in direct sunlight for most of the day, they will dry up quickly.
7. Choose Plants That Require Less 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. Good Drainage Is Key
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. Waterproof Terracotta Pots
Terracotta left unsealed (on the inside of the pot) will soak up a lot of your plant’s water before the plant does. Brush on a good water sealant to prevent this from happening.
10. Potting Soil
Its always best to use a good potting soil in your pots. They are specially blended just for this purpose so they are light weight and they have better water holding capabilities.
Before you purchase any type of garden pot for your garden, visit Keith Maiden’s web site: All Garden Pots for more information on container gardening.
