Container Gardening 101

Container Gardening 101

Want to have a garden, but don’t have the space?  Fret not, container gardens are the solution to the woes of urbanites and farmers alike.    Aside from having the ability to produce a significant amount of food within a limited space, container gardens allow you to have full control of what going into your soil.  This could be an easy solution for folks that may not know their soil quality while also protecting your crops from soil-borne pests.  The fact that your garden would be raised also helps with pesky garden critters. It is also a wonderful idea for students and other young people that move often and are hesitant to grow a garden that they will end up leaving the following year, they can simply take their garden with them!

Containers also solve the problem if your garden is lacking sunlight, if your containers are on castors, you can easily wheel them as they follow the sun.  This type of gardening also knows no boundaries, literally.  I have seen full-grown fig, lemon and an assortment of other fruit trees flourishing in wine barrels!  The idea is to do a bit of research and give your plants the room and light they need to grow.  Some vegetables may be compromised if their container is too shallow, such as deep setting root vegetables.  This method of gardening allows you to grow food anywhere from your porch, to your balcony to the sidewalk and even your rooftop!  Take advantage of the vertical space in your container and add trellises, teepees or wire cages.

1. Containers 

It is a solution that allows for maximizing productivity and creativity …. containers can be upcycled from old basins, bath tubs, wheelbarrows, wagons, baskets, chairs, cinder blocks, you name it!  The sky is the limit with what you can use to make your container garden out of.  Best of all, the more unique the vessel, the more outrageous your garden will look!  Some things to keep in mind when you are reusing pieces that have old paint on them, it may have lead and you will not want to use it. 

2. Drainage

Keep in mind to drill sufficient holes for drainage, if not you will drown your plants.  It has been suggested to drill the holes 2″ up on the sides, instead of on the bottom – this allows for a extra moisture retention, just don’t over water your crops!  Knowing how your pots hold or release water will also help you gauge the quantity of moisture necessary.  There are solutions for self-watering, make sure you do sufficient research before you take off for the weekend!  Depending on where you live will determine how moist/dry your vegetables will want to be, consult your local Extension office.

3. Seed Planning 

These types of gardens add dimension, texture, color and depth to a garden.  You can specialize each container with specific vegetables or herbs.  Perhaps using a few for companion planting vegetables and others create a medicinal, culinary and spice garden!  Think of all the incredible things you enjoy eating and explore the possibilities of growing them, nothing beats fresh food right out of the garden!  Consider researching what plants do well together and which ones prefer to be at a distance.   Take into account the amount of sunlight you have available and note to have a water source near-by, watering on a daily basis is key to a successful container garden.  Our Micro Garden Collection is geared for container gardens.  These varieties thrive in variable light and space.  When purchasing your seeds, always purchase them from a reliable source, check out our post on the Renaissance of Heirlooms to learn about why growing heirlooms and using open pollinated seeds is so important. 

4. Potting Mix

Use a high-quality organic potting mix that is well-draining and nutrient-rich. Avoid using garden soil, only compost, Miracle Gro and conventional blends. 

5. Location

Identify a location that receives the appropriate amount of sunlight for your plants. Most plants require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.  Remember if your containers are on casters you can follow the sun.  Rotate containers occasionally to ensure all sides receive adequate sunlight and prevent uneven growth.

7. Planting

Read all seed packets and learn which ones prefer to be planted indoors and which ones prefer to be direct seeded.  Read our previous blog posts discussing How to Start Your Garden From Seed and Garden Tips for Beginners.

8. Mulch

Once your seeds or seedlings have been planted, apply a layer of mulch on top of the potting mix to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.  For more info on the importance of mulching read our article Saving Water and Preventing Weeds : The Power of Mulching

Keeping in mind that plants should be rotated and avoid being planted in the same container.  Consider changing the plant selection or refreshing the soil seasonally for variety and optimal plant health.

Take this opportunity and dig through your garage or attic, thrift-stores of curb side sales and create your container garden today!