Container gardening is the art of growing plants in containers instead of planting them in the ground. This type of gardening is perfect for people who live in apartments, have limited space, or just want to add a touch of nature to their home. In this article, we will cover the best DIY container gardening tips and tricks for beginners and experienced gardeners.
Choosing the right container
When it comes to choosing the right container for your plants, there are a few things you need to consider. First, the container should be big enough to accommodate the plant’s roots. Second, it should have a drainage hole to prevent water from pooling at the bottom. Third, it should be made of a material that can withstand the weather and the weight of the soil. Some of the best materials for containers include terracotta, plastic, and wood.
Best container materials
- Terracotta: This material is great for plants that like a dry environment because it is porous and allows air and water to circulate. However, it can be heavy and brittle, so it’s not ideal for large plants.
- Plastic: Plastic containers are lightweight and inexpensive, making them perfect for beginners. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose one that matches your decor.
- Wood: Wooden containers are durable and look great, but they can be expensive. They also require more maintenance than other materials because they can rot over time.
Choosing the right soil
The soil you choose for your container garden is just as important as the container itself. The soil should be lightweight, well-draining, and rich in nutrients. You can buy pre-made potting soil at your local garden center or make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Best potting soil
- Miracle-Gro Potting Mix: This pre-made potting mix is perfect for beginners because it contains all the nutrients your plants need to thrive. It’s also lightweight and easy to work with.
- FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil: This organic potting soil is great for plants that require a lot of nutrients. It contains kelp meal, earthworm castings, and bat guano, which provide a rich source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Espoma AP4 Organic Potting Mix: This potting mix is made from all-natural ingredients, including peat moss, perlite, and earthworm castings. It’s perfect for plants that require good drainage.
Choosing the right plants
When it comes to choosing the right plants for your container garden, there are a few things you need to consider. First, the plants should be suited to the size of the container. Second, they should be suited to the amount of light and water they will receive. Third, they should be suited to the climate in your area.
Best container plants
- Herbs: Herbs like basil, thyme, and mint are perfect for container gardens because they don’t require a lot of space and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
- Succulents: Succulents like jade plants and aloe vera are perfect for container gardens because they require little water and can be grown in small pots.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a great choice for container gardens because they are easy to grow and produce a lot of fruit. They also come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that fits your container.
Caring for your container garden
Caring for your container garden is easy as long as you follow a few simple steps. First, water your plants regularly, but don’t overwater them. Second, fertilize your plants every few weeks to provide them with the nutrients they need. Third, prune your plants regularly to keep them from getting too big.
Best plant care tips
- Watering: Water your plants when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to water them thoroughly, but don’t let them sit in standing water.
- Fertilizing: Use a liquid or granular fertilizer every few weeks to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to grow. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package.
- Pruning: Prune your plants regularly to keep them from getting too big. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems.
Conclusion
Container gardening is a great way to add a touch of nature to your home or apartment. With the right container, soil, and plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden in no time. Follow these DIY container gardening tips and tricks, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a container gardening expert.