Are you short on outdoor space but still want a lush, beautiful garden? Container gardening is the perfect solution for any green thumb with limited land. Maximizing every inch of the available surface with planter boxes, hanging baskets, and decorative pots, you can create an oasis of greenery on your patio or balcony.
Here’s a complete guide that will teach you everything you need to know to start container gardening, from choosing the right plants to planting and care tips so your garden flourishes all season long.
Choosing the Right Planters
If you need planters that can withstand the harsh winters, fiberglass planters are a great choice. They are lightweight yet very durable. Large planters come in a range of designs, such as round, square, and oval. The fiberglass material is also frost—and crack-resistant.
Selecting Plants for Containers
When choosing plants for containers, consider their size, water needs and hardiness. Consider both flowering annuals for colour and edible plants like herbs for functionality. For large containers, opt for taller plants along the perimeter and cascade shorter plants in the middle.
For planter boxes, consider planting vegetables together that require similar sun/water, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant. Add herbs between plants. Make sure your selections will fit the height and spacing needs of the box.
Planting Your Container Garden
Now it’s time to plant! Begin by putting a layer of gravel or rocks in the drainage hole. This will allow water to drain out while preventing soil from flowing out. Fill your container with 2/3 full of potting mix, not garden soil, which can be compacted. Use filter cloth where appropriate.
Gently remove each plant from its nursery pot and loosen the roots before placing it in the container. Make sure the plant’s root ball sits slightly above the soil level. Add additional potting mix and firm it gently. Leave a 2–3-inch space at the top for watering.
Insert a moisture-retaining water gel according to package instructions. This will keep the soil from drying out too quickly. Finish by watering well so the potting mix settles.
Caring for Container Plants
Container plants need regular watering, sometimes daily in hot weather. Check the soil moisture daily – containers dry out faster than in-ground gardens. Water thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil are dry.
Fertilize containers monthly with water-soluble plant food throughout the growing season. Remove dead or dying foliage regularly to encourage new growth. Pinch back annuals periodically to promote bushiness.
In fall, bring pots indoors before frost or switch to cold-hardy pansies and kale for colour and interest through winter—empty and clean containers in spring preparation for new plantings tailored to the season.
Elevate Your Outdoors With Greenville Planters
Are you looking for the best planters in Toronoto? Greenville Planters has a wide selection of high-quality planters and pots to suit any gardening needs! Our extensive catalogue features large fiberglass and metal planters in versatile styles and sizes. Contact us to find the perfect planters for your container gardening project. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select long-lasting pots and provide expert tips to care for your new outdoor garden.