CONTAINERS 

• Size-Containers should be large enough to give plants plenty of root space for healthy growth. The larger the pot size, the better the success.
• Drainage Holes-All containers should have sufficient drainage holes in the bottom. This prevents overwatering and help provide air circulation necessary for healthy plant growth.
• Type
  • Plastic
  • Terra Cotta
  • Ceramic/Glazed
  • Galvanized
  • Wire (coco or moss lined)

SOIL vs GARDEN DIRT

Commercially prepared potting soil is recommended in garden containers. Potting soil contains rich organic material such as peat and composted barks needed for optimal plant growth  & flowering. It also contains vermiculite, which helps the soil drain; yet keeps it moist, resulting in healthy roots. Healthy Roots = Healthy Plants!

Dirt from the garden should never be used in    containers. It contains bacteria, noxious seeds, and other harmful organisms that can effect your newly potted plants. Garden dirt also becomes compacted in containers, resulting in rotting roots, stunted growth and eventually plant death.

LOCATION

Before selecting the plants for your containers, consider how they will be used & where they will be placed.

• Will they be in full/part sun or full/part shade?
• Will they be exposed to wind or radiant heat?
• Will they be placed on the porch, patio or deck?
• Are there any that will be grouped together or in a hanging basket or window box?
• Will they be used for growing herbs or vegetables?

All of these factors need to be considered to when choosing the right plants to fill your pots. Planning ahead results in successful container gardening!

PLANTS

Next comes the fun part! Picking out plants can be a little overwhelming at first because there are so many to choose from, but if you consider a few things first, you will be successful.

• Light and water requirements
• Plant growth habit-trailers, fillers, uprights
• Plant size/height
• Flower size/shape
• Flower/foliage color

You can create a unified collection of potted plants by planning a themed garden. Use your imagination and you’ll be surprised with the fun & unique designs you may come up with.

Group flowers by color or create a tiered look by combining plants that are upright, round or trailing. Keep the tallest plants towards the back or center to create a focal point. Trailing plants should be placed  towards the edge to naturally cascade. The round plants should be used to fill in the space between the trailers and uprights. Don’t forget about plants known for their sweet scents or bold foliage.

Another idea is to grow an edible garden. Consider creating a fresh salsa garden by planting tomatoes & peppers in a large pot surrounded by smaller pots of cilantro & chives. Herb gardens are also very popular. Place these close to the back step for easy harvest.

 PLANT CARE

• Fertilizer– Adding a granular, slow release fertilizer, such as Osmocote, at the time of planting will feed your plants for 4 months.
• Water Requirements– Check the water daily. Some plants exposed to high heat & wind might need to be watered more than once a day! Water thoroughly until the excess water runs out the bottom of the pot.
• Trimming/Deadheading-Some plants are aggressive growers and perform better by removing the spent blossoms or with a regular ‘haircut’.