Container gardening has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among those living in urban areas where outdoor space is limited. It allows people to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and even flowers, on balconies, rooftops, and small patios. Moreover, thanks to the internet, we have access to an incredible amount of information, tutorials, and tips on how to start a container garden. YouTube, in particular, has become a go-to resource for gardeners of all levels, offering a vast array of videos on hydroponics, indoor gardening, vertical farming, and urban gardening. In this essay, we’ll explore some of the best container gardening YouTube channels and videos, and provide you with some tips and tricks to get started.
The Best Container Gardening YouTube Channels
Epic Gardening
Epic Gardening is one of the most popular YouTube channels for container gardening. Created by Kevin Espiritu, a self-taught gardener and author of the book “Field Guide to Urban Gardening,” the channel offers a wide range of videos on hydroponics, indoor gardening, and urban farming. The channel has over 1 million subscribers and features detailed tutorials, reviews of gardening products, and interviews with other gardening experts.
MIgardener
MIgardener is another great YouTube channel for those interested in container gardening. Created by Luke Marion, an organic gardener with over 15 years of experience, the channel offers informative and engaging videos on topics such as composting, seed starting, and vertical gardening. The channel has over 500k subscribers and features a “how-to” series called “Sow Simple,” which provides step-by-step instructions on various gardening projects.
Roots and Refuge Farm
Roots and Refuge Farm is a YouTube channel run by Jess and Jeremiah, a couple who left the city to start a farm in rural Arkansas. The channel offers a unique perspective on container gardening, as it focuses on the challenges and rewards of homesteading. The videos are engaging and informative, covering topics such as raising chickens, growing herbs, and preserving food. The channel has over 400k subscribers and is a great resource for those interested in sustainable agriculture.
Tips and Tricks for Container Gardening
Start Small
One of the most important tips for container gardening is to start small. It’s easy to get excited about the prospect of growing your own food, but it’s important to remember that container gardening requires time, effort, and patience. Start with a few plants that are easy to grow, such as cherry tomatoes, herbs, or lettuce, and gradually expand your garden as you gain more experience.
Choose the Right Containers
Choosing the right containers is crucial for container gardening. Make sure the containers are large enough to accommodate the plants you want to grow, and have drainage holes at the bottom to allow for proper drainage. You can use almost anything as a container, from traditional pots to recycled materials such as old tires or plastic bottles. Just make sure the containers are clean, sturdy, and won’t leach harmful chemicals into the soil.
Use the Right Soil
Using the right soil is also crucial for container gardening. Regular garden soil is not ideal, as it can become compacted and prevent proper drainage. Instead, choose a high-quality potting mix that is specifically designed for container gardening. These mixes are lightweight, well-draining, and contain the nutrients your plants need to thrive.
Provide Proper Lighting
Most plants require plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruit or vegetables. If you’re growing plants indoors, make sure they’re placed near a window that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If you’re growing plants on a balcony or patio, make sure they’re in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight, but also provides some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Water Wisely
Overwatering is a common mistake among container gardeners. Make sure you water your plants only when the soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Use a watering can or a hose with a gentle spray nozzle to water your plants, and make sure the water reaches the roots.
Conclusion
Container gardening is a great way to grow your own food, even if you don’t have access to a large outdoor space. Thanks to YouTube, we have access to a wealth of information on how to start a container garden, from hydroponics to vertical farming. By following these tips and tricks, you can start your own container garden and enjoy the rewards of growing your own food.