When I decided to start gardening last summer, I knew that the possibility of relocating to our new homestead before the season ended made traditional or raised bed gardening impractical. Container gardening became an attractive option, offering the flexibility to relocate with my produce and accommodating urban dwellers with limited outdoor spaces. Research revealed a surprising array of plants that could thrive in containers, making it surprisingly accessible for beginners.
After a year of experimentation and learning, I’ve distilled my experience into valuable takeaways.
What First Time Container Gardeners Needs to Know
Lots of variety
While it’s common to think of containers as being limited in terms of what you can grow, the reality is that there are countless options available. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that you can even cultivate citrus trees like lemons and limes in containers. The dwarf lemon variety, for instance, can thrive indoors and offer a sweet and tangy alternative to traditional store-bought lemons.
Plus, you have the freedom to choose from a range of varieties, including those with fruit as large as oranges. The possibilities are truly endless, extending far beyond the realm of tomatoes, peppers (from bell to banana), basil, mint, and berries – to name just a few examples.
Prepare and plan
Before venturing out to the garden center, take a closer look at your eating habits. Which ingredients do you regularly consume that can be grown in a container? Is there something piquing your interest that you’d like to try? Make a mental note of these items as they will serve as the foundation for your shopping list.
Once you’ve taken stock of your culinary needs, create a comprehensive list.
This thoughtful approach ensures that you won’t arrive at the garden center without a clear idea of what you need, thereby avoiding the frustration of either leaving empty-handed or, like me, returning home with a trunk and backseat full of fresh produce!
Keep a Notebook
Last summer’s tomato adventure began with high hopes, only to be marred by mystery mishaps. It started well enough, but things took a turn for the worse when an unknown issue struck (if only I had kept a record!). The season was further complicated by infestations of tomato worms and scorching sun. A friend at work wisely recommended maintaining a gardening notebook, which got me thinking about the importance of keeping track of progress, no matter how simple or elaborate the system may be.
Understand the Type of Containers you can Purchase
I had a diverse range of produce growing in my topsy-turvy containers last summer. Two large ones were dedicated to banana peppers, jalapenos, and basil, while another held tomatoes and cilantro. In addition, I had smaller containers specifically designed for bell peppers and strawberries. The majority of these containers were purchased on sale from Big Lots during the fall season.
In contrast, my blueberry bushes resided in terra cotta pots, which I chose for their durability and long-lasting properties. Looking back, I should have opted for similar sturdiness when it came to the strawberry containers. Be creative with your pot choices – my daughters took it upon themselves to paint our terra cotta pots, and plastic buckets can also be used as alternatives. It’s worth noting that terra cotta pots don’t fare well in cold weather.
When temperatures dropped below freezing where I live, I would bring my blueberry bushes into our garage to protect them.
Understand that Plants Die
Life has its share of unexpected twists and turns, just like the world of horticulture. When a plant doesn’t thrive or eventually withers away, it’s not necessarily a reflection of one’s gardening skills. It’s simply a natural part of the process. A teacher once shared a personal anecdote about being proficient in sewing, while I, as their instructor, nonchalantly revealed my own aptitude for seam ripping.
This exchange serves as a poignant reminder that even the most skilled among us can encounter setbacks. In the same way, when plants succumb to environmental factors or pests, it’s not a sign of failure, but rather an opportunity to learn and adapt. By embracing these challenges, we can refine our techniques, gather valuable insights, and continue to nurture life – be it in the garden or elsewhere.
Make Sure Your Pots Have Adequate Drainage
When planting, it’s crucial to ensure your containers have sufficient holes for proper drainage. If the containers don’t provide enough drainage, the plants will sit in excess water that wasn’t absorbed, leading to root rot and ultimately, plant death. This issue is particularly common with store-bought containers, which often lack adequate drainage features.
However, this problem can be easily solved by drilling, punching, or carving a larger hole into the container, allowing excess water to escape and preventing root rot.
How to make room for vine produce
With some creativity, growing pumpkins in a container can be a rewarding experience. Start by selecting a smaller pumpkin variety, ideal for painting or cooking into delicious pies. When it comes to containers, opt for one with at least 10-gallon capacity and provide support using trellises covered with cloth to help the vines grip. This setup will allow your pumpkins to flourish and grow upwards, taking up minimal space.
If you’re growing green beans in conjunction with pumpkins, consider repurposing a tomato cage and adding twine for them to climb. Alternatively, use two connected pots as a trellis structure, creating a beautiful display of intertwined vines.
Choose Good Potting Soil
When it comes to selecting a good potting soil, it’s essential to consider its composition. A well-rounded mix should include peat moss, perlite, and compost, as these ingredients provide the necessary structure, drainage, and nutrient-rich environment for healthy plant growth. Opting for the cheapest option might not yield the desired results, so it’s crucial to prioritize quality over cost.
If you’re looking to create your own potting soil, a simple yet effective approach is to start by composting. By breaking down organic matter into its most basic form, you can create a rich and fertile base that will support the growth of a wide range of plants. This DIY method not only saves money but also allows for customization to suit specific plant species or growing conditions.
Look at the Sun
When it comes to determining the ideal amount of sunlight for your crops, it’s essential to strike the perfect balance. Many gardeners unknowingly overestimate the amount of sun their plants receive, which can hinder growth and yield. If you’re an apartment dweller with limited natural light, consider relocating lettuce and other shade-loving varieties outdoors while dedicating a sunny spot indoors for more demanding plants like tomatoes.
Alternatively, consult a reliable sun calculator to gain accurate insights into your outdoor space’s solar exposure. By taking the time to accurately assess your garden’s sunlight levels, you’ll be well on your way to achieving success in your gardening endeavors.
Look into Combination Gardening
When it comes to container gardening, one of the most exciting things you can discover is the ability to grow multiple plants in a single pot. A great example of this is a herb container, where you can combine several herbs that thrive under similar conditions. However, before you start mixing and matching, it’s crucial to do your research. Some plants have specific space requirements, like mint, which has a tendency to spread quickly and can take over an entire garden bed if left unchecked.
In this case, it’s best to give mint its own dedicated pot or area. Additionally, different plants have varying sun requirements, so you’ll want to make sure the ones you’re combining receive the right amount of sunlight. By taking the time to research the individual needs of your plants, you can create a thriving and harmonious container garden that showcases multiple varieties at their best.
Save Your Plant Tags
I recall coming across a helpful tip and deciding to put it into practice with my Coolepenos, which are supposed to have the flavor of jalapenos without the heat. Following this advice, I added the ticket to my Coolepenos and then included all other plants in my garden without labeling them. For about six weeks, I was only able to identify two species – my Coolepenos and basil, thanks to its distinct aroma.
This experience served as a valuable lesson for me, and I hope it has also taught you something useful. In addition, the plant tags remained vibrant throughout the summer, which pleased me. If I have the time in the future, I might engage the kids in decorating their own tags. Who knows, we may even create some new designs.
Container Plants Love Water
Container plants, on the other hand, don’t have the luxury of relying on groundwater or atmospheric moisture. As a result, the soil’s surface can quickly become dry, requiring more frequent watering. However, if the containers have adequate ventilation systems – such as holes at the bottom – this issue is mitigated. In fact, the excess water can be shared with whatever lies beneath the holes, eliminating concerns about overwatering. During peak summer heat, daily watering becomes a necessity.
I recall my daughters would often help me tend to our garden, and once summer was in full swing, it became a daily ritual for us – even at 10 am sharp.
Get a Bigger Pot Than It Needs
When discussing the needs of container plants, it’s essential to consider their affinity for moisture. As I mentioned earlier, these plants thrive in environments where water is readily available. When given a large enough container filled with a substantial amount of soil, it’s inevitable that the soil will retain and release water as needed.
This underscores the importance of selecting containers that are proportionate to the size of the plant, allowing for ample room for the soil to perform its natural function.
Give Them Extra Nutrients
When planting produce in containers, it’s essential to recognize that the earth may already be performing some natural composting. However, since the plant doesn’t have access to these additional nutrients, it’s crucial to provide extra nourishment. The good news is that there are multiple ways to achieve this. Compost, which can be easily created at home, plays a vital role in supporting the growth of your produce.
In addition, other options like coffee grounds can benefit certain plants, such as tomatoes, which thrive on acidic environments. By repurposing used coffee grounds and adding them to your tomato containers once a week, you’ll not only reduce waste but also provide essential nutrients. If you’re concerned about blossom end rot, incorporating crushed eggshells rich in calcium into your tomato soil can help prevent this issue.
Ultimately, taking the time to research and understand the specific needs of your plants will help eliminate unnecessary purchases and ensure the health and success of your container garden.
Pick Them if They are Dead
To promote healthy plant growth and maximize yields, it’s essential to regularly remove any dead or wilted leaves, flowers, or stems from your plants. This process, known as ‘deadheading,’ not only keeps the plant looking tidy but also prevents the spread of disease and encourages the plant to focus its energy on producing fresh, nutritious produce.
In addition to maintaining a healthy plant, removing dead items can also contribute valuable nutrients to your compost pile when you eventually turn them into organic matter.
Clean up When Winter Comes
To maintain the longevity of your pots and keep your plants thriving throughout the winter season, it’s essential to take certain precautions. For instance, terra cotta pots are particularly susceptible to cracking and breaking when exposed to freezing temperatures, especially if they still contain soil. If you have perennial plants and reside in an apartment, bringing them indoors is a wise decision.
Alternatively, if you live in a house, consider relocating them to your garage or a sheltered area near the edge of your home. Additionally, it’s crucial to tidy up before winter sets in fully to preserve both the aesthetic appeal and sense of pride you take in your living space.
My Final Tip…
As the curtain closes on our journey to container gardening for beginners, I want to emphasize the importance of self-acceptance. Recognize your strengths and weaknesses as a gardener. If you’re aware that growing strawberries consistently eludes you but tomatoes thrive under your care, consider forming an arrangement with a fellow gardener where you swap produce. This way, everyone wins – you’ll get access to the fruits of another’s labor while they benefit from yours.
Remember, gardening is a personal pursuit meant to bring joy and fulfillment. By embracing your true self and being honest about your abilities, you’ll cultivate a sense of accomplishment and make the experience even more rewarding.
