Many people who live in an apartment, condominium, or mobile home do not grow a large garden because of limited space and lot. But this is not an excuse to create your own garden. There are numerous plants and flowers that can grow in containers such as window boxes, planters and flower boxes . If you are planning to develop a container gardening, always choose the right containers for your plants and give more attention to good soil mix, spacing requirements, fertilizing, and watering.
Containers are available in different sizes and materials but always check if your planters have sufficient holes for proper drainage. Make sure it is not too many so that it will not drain quickly after watering. If you have a drainage problem, set your planters on a solid surface such as cement or patio floor. Elevating the container one of two inches off the floor by placing it on blocks of wood will solve the drainage problem. The size of the containers will be determined by the plant grown. Most plants grown in the soil can be grown on planters as long as there is enough space for root development. Shallow rooted plants need a container that has 6 inches in diameter and eight inch soil dept.
The ideal planting medium for planters should provide drainage system with ample water retention to keep the root zone uniformly moist. Most container gardeners have found that a soilless potting mix works best. This mixture is better because it is free from soil- borne diseases and weed seeds. These mixes can be purchase from garden centers and from online market.
Planting and spacing requirements for most plants can be found on the instructional materials provided when you order plants online or purchased from any garden centers located in your area. A container can accommodate small number of plants; therefore, it is important to limit the number of plants based on the container size and the eventual size of the plant at maturity.
Fertilization application is also needed for plants to grow completely. Know that different plants require different types of growing media or substrate. Take note that there are acid- loving plants as well as alkaline- loving plants, so their planters and fertilizer mixes must adhere to their requirements. Fertilize only during the growth period, mostly on spring and summer. Refrain from fertilizing water or light deprived plants because it will kill them. Note that plants that thrive in low light require less or no fertilizer. Always read the fertilizer package formulation and instructions. Follow the recommended application in terms of quantity, frequency and delivery and also observe side effects of over fertilization like yellowing, deformed or burned leaves.
Watering is one of the most important assignments of a container gardener that he needs to perform. Some plants need watering every day, depending on the plant type, size of the flower boxes and weather conditions. Use water can or sprayer for watering. Be sure the water is cool before applying it to your plants. Hot water does not hasten the root development.
You can create your own garden even without a big space for your plants and flowers through container gardening. You will not only enjoy your garden but you can share it as plant gifts for your friends and family.
