Hello, garden enthusiasts!

One of last month’s themes was: “Gardening in Small Spaces”. Today, we will continue with that theme with special emphasis on container gardening.

Container gardening (or pot gardening) is the practice of growing plants, including edible plants/vegetables and trees/shrubs exclusively in containers. This practice has steadily been increasing in popularity both domestically and commercially, locally and internationally over the years. It is less complicated and provides efficient utilisation of space (under trees, on decks, balconies, driveways, verandahs and rooftops, etc) due to the portability and flexibility of containers.

Container gardening can be labour-intensive as the containers are very dependent on the person supplying water and nutrients in the absence of an irrigation system, particularly during the hot summer months. Know before you grow — some best practices for container gardening:

Containers

• Containers can be anything as long as they have drainage holes for excess water. For the cost-conscious gardeners, the traditional plastic pots offer the best value for money and are available in a myriad of sizes.

• With increase in technology, there are two non-traditional container systems on the market as smart pots and air pots (also available in various sizes) to grow any size plant, including trees. Their unique ability to generate rooting capacity and decrease soil temperature, which reduces plant stress during the hot summer months, sets them apart from the standard containers. Of course, these planters are more expensive.

• Use larger pots for multiple plants as they hold more soil, moisture and nutrients, as well as accommodate a larger root mass. The aim is to get a full and attractive container with plants.

• Restrict single plants to small pots.

• The standard traditional plastic pots with plants can be placed into ceramic or porcelain planters to add elegance and colour to the space or garden. The pots can be rotated when the blooms fade or the plants are no longer aesthetically pleasing.

Growing medium

• Well-draining soil while also able to retain sufficient water to reduce frequency of watering. Adding peat moss will aid in water retention.

• Heavy enough to prevent tipping over but not too heavy to limit handling. Placing stones/pebbles (depending on size of pot) will also help to stabilise pot.

Watering and fertilising

• Water twice daily, preferably early morning and in the early afternoon.

• Water more frequently if you choose containers made with porous materials — clay pots, wood and fabric.

• Fertilise “weak” weekly — once per week with half the recommended portion.