Get creative with containers

From foam pots to terracotta, potted plants can add
class to your garden

Friday, October 14, 2005

Container planting is one of the most creative gardening forms in which color combinations, texture and even the container itself can make a statement. Container gardens can express your artistry or set a mood in the house, on your deck or front porch, and even in the garden.

The following are simple, easy-to-follow steps to get things started � even for those of you who don't think you have a green thumb!

Step 1: Select the right pot for your plant

* Any container that appeals to you is a possibility � choose colors, sizes, and styles that not only match your plant, but also your environment.

* Think foam! Foam pots are extremely lightweight yet durable. The pot's polyurethane foam also protects roots in extreme temperatures.

* Pot should be 1 to 2 inches larger than the root ball so roots have room to grow and expand (large plants may need more space � 2 to 3 inches).

Step 2: Create and cover drainage holes

* Punch holes in bottom of the pot.

* Use wire mesh to cover holes so soil mix doesn't run out with any excess water.

* Fill bottom portion of container with gravel, rocks, pieces of broken crockery or packing peanuts to create a drain field. That way, excess water won�t seep through the pot and rot the roots of the plants.

Step 3: Prepare the potting soil

* Always use a prepared mix; never use soil from your home garden, which almost always contains weed seeds, bugs, or unhealthy bacteria.

* A versatile potting soil suitable for most plants contains 60 percent peat moss, 19 percent Perlite, 20 percent Vermiculite, and 1 percent Lime.

* Always check with a lawn and garden specialist to find out what type of soil mix is recommended for the plants you are using.

Step 4 : Add potting mix and plants

* Add 2 to 3 inches of potting mix to the bottom of the pot (larger plants may require more mix).

* Set plant into pot and add potting mix around sides, tamping down with thumbs as you go.

* Don�t be afraid to mix a variety of plants in one container � a full arrangement could have tall plants in the center, working out to the sides with smaller plants.

* Make sure the top of root ball is just under the top of the soil.

* Leave 1 1/2 to 2 inches of watering space between the top of the soil and the rim of the pot.

Step 5: Water thoroughly

* Give a full flush of water through the planter the first time you water it.

* For larger plants, you can opt to place the pot in a tub filled with about 1/2 inch of water for approximately 15 minutes.

Step 6: Place in indirect lighting for 3 to 4 days, and water as necessary

* Keep an eye on your container garden � especially in hot weather as it can dry out quickly.

Keep in mind that fertilizers wash out of container soils faster than out of garden soils, so you may wish to apply a liquid fertilizer at half strength to the plant every two weeks.

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