How to Grow Container Plants

Growing container plants add visual interest to any space. The great advantage of container pots is that they can be easily positioned to create a new look. Also, if you have problem soil such as dense clay, container plants allow to grow a limitless amount of plants because you can add enriched garden soil. Spruce up your surroundings with a container garden.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plant containers of various sizes
• Colorful, small plants
• Potting soil

1. Purchase a container that will be large enough to allow a full season of growth for your selected plants. Make sure the container has an adequate drainage hole to allow excess water to drain. Also make sure that the containers are made of sturdy material that can handle plants beyond their beginning blooming stages.

2. Fill the pot half way with a high quality soil mixture that is suitable for container planting. Pour in slow-release plant food granules into the soil and mix well. If you try the cheaper quick grow supplements, the container soil can dry out and eventually kill your plants.

3. Insert purchased plants into pot and surround with soil mixture. Press potting soil firmly around plant and tap gently to remove any air that might be trapped within the pot. Be sure to tap around the entire circumference of the container so that you don't miss any hidden air pockets.

4. Water the plant deeply and place in a spot in the garden or home according to plant type or variety. Smaller plants are effective around window sills, while larger plants are great to fill empty corners of your home. Also be aware of how much sunlight is needed for each plant. You don't want to keep all the plants in the dark or overexpose them to the sun.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase fertilizer mix when you get the containers. Most soil mixes only contain sufficient food for only six weeks for plant growth. After that, fertilizer must be added to supplement your plant during the growing season.