How to Container Garden

Learning how to container garden can be crucial for those who only have a small outside space with which to garden. But it can also be beneficial to those with a patio or a deck, or a small area in the backyard landscape that simply needs “sprucing up”!

Learning how to container garden is actually pretty easy. Many annual plants and vegetables are easy to grow, and are quite forgiving (in other words, they’re not easy to damage...which is a good thing for me, because plants that survive under my care definitely need a hardy spirit!)

1. First, select the area where you wish to establish your garden. You’ll need to identify the location as being in “full sun” – more than 6 hours per day, “part sun” – about 3 to 6 hours per day, or “shade” – less than 3 hours per day. This will determine what type of landscaping plants who use. Don’t skip this step! Picking the right plants for your location is crucial to your success with the container garden.
2. Next, select the pots and planters that you want to use in the area. Add interest by using different sized pots whose colors complement each other. I prefer the pots that have drainage holes in the bottom. Many decorative planters are not equipped with drainage holes. This can constrict the roots, and lead to damage if the plants are over-watered. If you’re just learning how to container garden, give yourself the easier route by using pots with drainage holes.
3. Select a good quality potting soil mix from a local lawn and garden center. There are some potting soils that contain slow release fertilizer which can make things easier for the beginner.
4. Now the fun part – choose your plants! If you have a good amount of sun, you’ll be able to add some vegetables to the mix! If you have a planter with a trellis, you can plant a vine such as morning glory, or even a vegetable such as pea pods or beans. Marigolds, alyssum and petunias make good accent flowers, especially when paired with vines such as vinca vines or potato vines. Taller growing vegetables that can be used are tomatoes and pepper plants. Have fun with this step! Tour your local garden center and select plants that fit your level of sun. Go with what you like!

More tips can be found at my pages on container flower gardens and garden landscape designs.

Happy gardening!

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