Getting maximum results with minimal space

We envy those folks with big yards and plenty of space to plant their gardens each year. But for those of us with less yard and more deck, or with no yard at all, it's vital to use what little space we have to give us the greatest yield.


That's where containers come in. Available in virtually any size, color, shape and finish, containers are the unsung heroes of gardening culture.

In almost every instance where gardening straight from the earth isn't an option, containers are the best way to go. There's no building involved, you get to choose the size and style you prefer to match your personal taste, and they're just plain easy to work with.

The combination of a few select plants and the right container can be eye-catching or practical, depending on what your gardening goals are. Whether you're planting a few fresh herbs to add to your nightly meals or you're trying to brighten up your exterior with flowers and shrubs, containers are the quick and easy fix.

All you need to get started is some soil - preferably an organic potting soil or one you make your own - and a pot to put it in. Your soil should be nutrient rich and can contain compost, peat, worm casings, loam, sand, or other fillers that increase its density and help it retain water. Once you have your soil ready and your plants picked out, it's time to choose a style of container. Regardless of your goals, ceramic and glazed containers are often the best bet, as plastic pots can deteriorate in the sun and terra cotta pots can dry out quickly and crack without proper maintenance. Make sure however that your ceramic pots are properly elevated and are equipped for drainage. Also, avoid wooden containers that use treated wood as the chemicals can leech into the spoil and damage tender root structures.

The size of your container depends as much as what you're planting as as it does available space. Vegetables with deep roots like potatoes and rutabagas require deep pots, while ferns and perennials grow fine in loose, shallow soil.  It's also best to avoid containers with narrow openings except in instances where the plant is sturdy and narrow, like small trees and certain shrubs.

 Your container garden needs plenty of sunshine - at least five hours a day - and the soil has to be kept moist but not over so, or rot can develop. Drainage is important, especially in ceramic and glazed pots, so make sure they have at least one. (all of our containers at HGC are equipped with holes) You will also need to fertilize ofter as the nutrients are washed from container soil much faster than on the ground. Be sure to select a mixture that is balanced with the right pH and nutrient levels.

So regardkless of whether you're trying to fill up space on the front porch or the back deck, or you're ready to give your green thumb a shot at urban vegetable gardening, containers are the fun and easy solution for even the most inexperienced gardener. A few simple pots with some wild grasses planted in them, vibrant and green, will make you the envy of backdoor gardeners everywhere.

Stop in today at Home and Garden Culture in Kennett Square and see our selection of containers, herbs and organic soils!