How to Plant a Container Garden

Container gardens have become more popular in recent years, as those people who live in apartments, condos or upper levels of buildings become more interested in having their own gardens. Not just for annuals anymore, many container gardens are home to a wide variety of vegetables and herbs. Anything that can grow in a small space will fit well in a container. Here's a few tips on planting your own container garden.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Containers, either ceramic, clay, redwood or cedar that are from 15 to 120 gallons in size, with a wide opening
• Planting medium
• Flowers or vegetables
• Porch, patio or window space that allows for at least 5 hours of sun

1. 
   Choose carefully where your containers will go

   Choosing a space is the first important factor in planting a container garden. While the amount of sunlight is largely determined by what you are growing, for the most part a container garden will need at least 5 hours of sunshine a day. If you are planting vegetables, this is even more important than with flowering plants. For example, lettuce and leafy greens can tolerate more shade than tomatoes, cucumbers or carrots, which need more sunlight. Make sure you check the amount of light your plants will need before placing them in the containers.

2. The containers should be wide-mouthed and no less than a 15-gallon size. Ceramic containers work best as long as there are at least 3 drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Terra-cotta or clay, also work well, but you will need to keep your garden well watered, as water does seep through and will evaporate faster. Wooden boxes are also available and easy to use, however you will need to stay away from anything that is chemically treated as this could kill off your plants quickly. Light colored pots are also preferable, as it reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the sun. Once potted, place the containers on bricks to allow better drainage and air circulation. This will also keep the pots from overheating.

3. The planting medium is also important to the health and well-being of a container garden. The soil needs to be able to drain quickly to prevent harm and diseases that could attack the root system of your plants. The perfect soil mixture would be equal parts of sand, loamy soil and peat moss. If purchasing pre-mixed soil, you may need to add a little lime to neutralize some of the acidity. Adding vermiculite to the mix will also help increase drainage. Explore a soiless potting mix. These are light, airy and completely free from any diseases or weeds that might be present in a regular soil compound.When potting, plan to leave about 2 inches at the top free. This will allow you to mulch later if desired. Line the base of the pots with shredded newspaper to avoid soil loss through the drainage holes.

4. 
   Petunias are the highlight here

   When picking out flowers to plant in a container, whether a hanging basket or one that sits on the ground, keep in mind that you are working on a 3-dimensional project. In other words, plant taller items in the center, medium sized next and smaller plants or vines near the edges. Combine different plants to make the best combinations of colors and greenery. For instance, in this container, a spider plant takes the center, while a mass of petunias tumble off the sides. Mass plantings of a single flower can also make a huge impression. Some flowers to consider are alyssum, begonia, coleus, geraniums, impatiens, lobelia, marigolds, nasturtium, pansies, petunias, salvia, snapdragons and zinnias. Make sure the flowers you choose match the sun conditions where you will be placing your container.

5. 
   Tomatoes make wonderful container vegetables

   Vegetables and herbs also make great container plantings. Any bush-type vegetable such as beans or tomatoes, easily combine with vine type cucumbers or zucchini, with additions of quick growing and harvesting plants like any salad green, spinach, radishes or onions. Again, mixing and matching can make the most of your containers. Make sure the vegetable you choose matches the container you place it in. For example, a cherry tomato plant will tend to grow tall and will need support. Combined with a low-growing cucumber, you will need at least at 5 to 10 gallon pot. Use herbs as well as they not only provide additional filler for your container, but many prove to be helpful in keeping away pests and diseases.

Tips & Warnings

• Use larger pots if possible. Small pots will dry out more quickly and prevent root growth.
• Line hanging baskets with moss to protect the roots and allow for water retention.
• Be careful when watering. Don't allow the container plants to dry out or become oversoaked. Both will cause damage to your garden.