Related Sponsors

Selecting Containers

Home » Lawn & Garden » Container Gardening » Selecting Containers

There is practically no limit to the type of containers that can be used in container gardening. Think creatively as you look for containers that suit your preferences and decor. Just a few include buckets, barrels, watering cans, and even a kid’s plastic swimming pool. If it holds soil, it can probably be your container. Size is also an important consideration. Larger containers will be required for larger plants. Many plants do not like to be root bound, so be sure the container size is sufficient for the plants you have selected. The depth and width of the container is equally important as roots spread out and down from the stem.

Consider the following guidelines when choosing your container.

• Avoid containers with narrow openings.

• Cheap plastic pots may deteriorate in UV sunlight and terracotta pots dry out rapidly. Glazed ceramic pots are great choices but require several drainage holes.

• Wooden containers are inclined to rot. Redwood and cedar are more rot resistant and can be used without staining or painting. Avoid wood treated with creosote, penta or other toxic compounds since the vapors can damage the plants. One advantage of wooden containers is that they can be built to sizes and shapes that suit the location.

• Use containers between 15 and 120 quarts capacity. Small pots restrict the root area and dry out very quickly. The size and number of plants to be grown will determine the size of the container used. Deep rooted vegetables require deep pots.

• Make sure your pot has adequate drainage. Holes should be 1/2 inch across. Line the base of the pot with newspaper to prevent soil loss.

• In hot climates use light-colored containers to lessen heat absorption and discourage uneven root growth.

• Set containers on bricks or blocks to allow free drainage.

• Line hanging baskets with sphagnum moss for water retention. Keep baskets away from afternoon sun.

• If you choose clay pots, remember that clay is porous and water is lost from the sides of the container. Plants in clay pots should be watched closely for loss of moisture.

Next Page: Selecting Plants

Related Container Gardening Articles