Container Gardens

	Container Gardens In its long history, reaching back even into antiquity, container gardening has never been as popular as it is today. This is partly because it fits in with so many other aspects of modern life. With today’s relaxed lifestyles in which the distinction between indoor and outdoor living is blurred, container-grown plants provide an ideal way of bringing the garden right to the very door of the house. The vast choice of containers and plant materials available today leaves the opportunity for individual creativity only to ones imagination. Preparing Containers With all containers it is a good idea to be sure they are thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant to prevent pests and diseases. Cover the drainage holw with broken flower pot pieces or stones to help water find its way of escaping but not pouring out. Choosing The Right Container Selecting the most appropriate container is every bit as important as choosing the plants to grow in them. Materials such as clay, stone, terracotta, fiberglass, stone Planting Containers Bags of ready-mixed potting soil are available in our Lawn & Garden department. Depending on your needs, there are several types to choose from in various sizes: Pro-Mix Ultimate Container Mix, Pro-Mix Hanging Basket & Planter Mix, Miracle Gro Potting Mix.
	Pre-moisten your soil medium before filling the container. The medium should be moderately moist, not dripping wet. This reduces the dust associated with filling a pot or container of any kind, and it assures you that the medium will be uniformly moist.
	Fill containers ¾ full with soil. Gently loosen the soil around the plants’ roots and arrange in container (see sidebar on container design). Add rest of soil to fill pot. Water thoroughly. Annuals: This year your choices are endless when it comes to choosing annuals. Their long blooming periods and minimal care make them great container plants. For added texture and interest, mix with herbs, vines, spikes and other non-flowering annuals. Herbs, Vegetables: Growing a vegetable garden does not have to be limited to a large plot in the ground. A sunny balcony or patio is a great place to keep a “kitchen garden” close to where you need it. Mix with colorful annuals such as nasturtium, petunias or marigolds. Shrubs: Many varieties of shrubs would do well in pots. This design idea can create a focal point, frame an entryway or create a barrier to a patio. When it comes to choosing shrubs, consult our nursery experts for planting and care specifics. Water Gardens, Bonsai, Rock Gardens: Okay, by now you get the idea. There are so many plants and container choices you can create something personal without the limitations of space or environmental factors. Let us help you put it all together.