Growing in containers can be fun, rewarding and has many benefits. 

Container growing can solve many problems such as 

  • No Soil (indoors or on balconies).
  • Soil type not suitable for plant (Orchids, poor soil for veggies).
  • Large trees sucking all the moisture or nutrients out of the soil.
  • Keeping runaway plants such as mint under control.
  • Location (herbs and leafy greens by the back door).
  • The ability to move plants (wither it because of the season or moving house). 
  • Raised height to reduce bending and lifting.  

What can be grown in containers? 
Most things can be grown in containers such as 

  • Produce – fruit trees, veggies, herbs
  • Flower – Not only for looking pretty but also providing food and habitat 
  • Tiny delicate plants like baby tears 

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box…. or use it as a planter.
Planters come in all different shapes and sizes they can be 

  • Large or Small
  • Recycled / old discarded items 
  • Formal to out of the ordinary – old shoe, wine barrels, decorative planters, timbers, recycled plastics, concrete, specialized grow bags or pods

What to remember when growing in containers. 
Most plants don’t like sitting in water, unless growing water plants it is best to avoid waterlogged soil. Good drainage is the key.
To provide good drainage for you plants you can; 

  • Drill holes in the bottom of your container (outdoor plant).
  • Use rocks at the base of containers to create a place for excess water to sit below the soil level. Care must be taken not to add more water than the rock area can hold. (This is ideal for terrariums). 
  • Make your container into a wicking bed (ask us in store if you need help with this one).
  • Use a growing medium (the stuff plant roots grow in) that is suitable to both the plant and container. (Use a succulent potting mix for succulents or try adding some perlite for greater aeration).

Pick a plant and container pair that will match. The right size plant for the right size container. 

Raise your container off the soil to prevent rust, rot and decay. You can use plant stands, bricks or a sand base. 

Don’t forget to feed your containers. 

Have fun and try new things. Gardening is all about experimentation.