Virtually anything can be grown in containers, from colorful annuals and tasty vegetables to scented climbers, even small trees. And virtually anything can be used as a container, from old shoes and paint cans to the more traditional terracotta pots and wooden barrels. When you plant in containers, you’re making the most of all the available space – brightening up a gloomy corner, cheering up a plantless patio. You can even shuffle the pots around for an instant change of a scene.
Growing
Container plants do need a little more care than those in the open ground, but this form of ‘gardening in miniature’ gives you numerous opportunities for change and for some really exquisite effects.
Soil
It really is important to use good soil. Resist the temptation to save money by using garden soil; it’s not the right consistency for container gardening, and it can harbor pests and diseases, so your plants will inevitably have to struggle.
For shrubs, climbers, or trees, which are likely to remain in the same container for several years, use a soil-based potting mix. Herbs and bulbs, too, will appreciate the excellent drainage that this type of mix provides.
Peat-based mixes are ideal for bedding plants, vegetables, or anything that’s being planted for just a few months. They are generally called “soilless” potting mix and contain perlite or vermiculite as well as peat moss. It is lighter in weight than soil-based mixes.
Ericaceous mixes are specially formulated for acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and Japanese andromedas.
Drainage
Whatever container you’re using, it’s essential that it’s well drained to prevent waterlogging. So check that it has drainage holes – most do, but some, like wooden barrels, have solid bases. If this is the case, you’ll have to drill holes (five well-spaced 1/2 in/1 3mm holes would be ideal in this instance).
The other golden rule is to add drainage material to the base of the container. This prevents soil from being washed away when you water and from blocking up the drainage holes. Broken clay pots (shards) or small stones are ideal for smaller containers, and broken bricks can be used in larger ones. Don’t skimp on it; use a 1 -2 in/2.5-5cm layer in a medium to large pots and up to 6 in/1 5cm in the very largest barrels.
Continue reading the part 2 here..
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