Container gardens are those designed for plants to be in pots, raised beds, or other containers. They’re ideal for small spaces or for adding native plants among existing landscaping with minimal disruption. There is no right or correct way to organize a container garden, but simple Cues to Care like layering can still apply to add pleasant aesthetics.
Site Considerations
Containers create a unique opportunity when it comes to site; you’re able to move them as necessary, use various styles or sizes dependent on plant selection, and even protect them reasonably well from winter weather.
But there are elements of containers that require additional consideration:
- Containers should always have a drainage hole; root rot and other diseases are common when water is stuck in place.
- Because of the need for a drainage hole, and the relatively limited amount of soil avialable to them, containers also dry out more quickly and often require additional watering.
- Exposure to direct sunlight is often ideal, but can lead to faster evapotranspiration. Adding mulch to the top of your container can help slow this process.
- Wind can also contribute to faster evapotranspiration, but can also just knock pots around a bit. If you’re on a balcony or an exposed site, consider a heavier pot, or grouping them together to create some protection.
- Use or make your own potting mix as opposed to regular garden soil. Adding a mixture of compost, bark, sand, coir, or other materials can boost the quality of soil in containers.
- Fertilize naturally. Use compost or other organic materials to add nutrients to your soil, as liquid and chemical fertilizers may quickly leach out of the container.