Growing Pots and Containers

Growing a garden in growing pots or containers?

Probably no other form of gardening allows more versatility than growing in pots and containers in your garden.

Growing plants in containers allows you to have a garden in situations where there is no yard or land or to have a garden on a rooftop, a balcony and so on.

In turn growing in containers can be an ideal solution for people with physical limitations that prevent them from working at ground level. It may also be the answer for those whose gardens have adverse ground soil conditions.

Basically, you can start your container garden with any combination of pots, choosing the mixture of plants you want to cultivate.

Next, pick the place where they will have the ideal amount of sun or shade. Don't forget to provide sufficient water and fertilization.

For the plants to grow successfully, good drainage is essential. Drainage holes should be covered inside th container to keep the soil in its place: Pieces of broken pottery, fine screening, or a coffee filter are good options.

You can also add a layer of small stones, sand or gravel in the bottom of the container. If using containers inside, don't forget to use a drip tray under the container to catch the excess water and avoid water damage.

Sterilize containers using a weak bleach solution (10 percent bleach and 90 percent water). Sterilization will help you to be sure that you have removed any traces of pests or diseases that may remain in the interior of the container.

Rinse the container thoroughly and it is ready for planting.

For tips on what type of soil to use when growing in pots, please see our Soil page.