Container Gardening Supplies
People who have limited gardening space but an expansive gardening urge can find solace in container gardening. Supplies needed are really very few, yet the results can be magnificent if planned properly.
There are a number of plants that do very well when grown in containers. Many people living in apartments or attached condos will find that they have little privacy when using their deck or patio space, which are generally all located in the back of the residences. Adding plants along the perimeters of these areas on each side using plants that climb or achieve heights of 4 to 5 feet will give a sense of privacy as well as adding beauty and fragrance. Growing plants in containers is also a popular means of having tropical plants in northern states; cold winter temperatures often prohibit these from being included in the landscape but can be enjoyed outdoors in pots and then carried safely inside during harsh weather.
To get started in container gardening, supplies that will be needed are containers, soil, fertilizer and, of course, plants or seeds. For the gardener, it may be helpful to have a durable pair of gardening gloves to protect the hands and nails. When selecting the containers to use, an important consideration to keep in mind is the mature size of the plant that will be grown; it is wise not to confine the plant in too small of a container. Choose plants according to the conditions of the area that they will occupy; if the patio or deck is in the shade most of the time, be sure that the plants you choose are able to handle the cooler and shadier conditions. If the instructions for growing indicate “part sun, be sure that they are in a location that will receive at least four hours of sun, while a plant that needs “full sun” will need to have 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day for optimal performance.
A number of excellent commercial potting soil mixes are available for purchase, some of which already contain fertilizer. For plants grown in containers, however, keep in mind that many of the vital nutrients are washed away over time. A good plan is to add fertilizer to the plants every few weeks to keep them flourishing and looking beautiful.
Container gardening supplies are not prohibitively expensive and the pots themselves can be used year after year. The small investment for the supplies will be well worth the enjoyment the beauty and privacy of your patio or deck will provide.