Gardening With Small Containers

Gardening With Small Containers
By Joseph Michehl

Growing plants in small containers has become a major pass time around the world; especially in urban areas. Defined as the practice of growing plants in containers instead of planting them in the ground, the benefits are enormous. Besides taking up less space, containers are moveable and decorative. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors and, depending on what you choose to grow, can be nourishing and healthy for you, as well.

If space is limited to a small deck, patio or rooftop, container gardening can provide a cozy feeling to your home. Plants with vibrant colors or a pair of miniature fruit trees standing guard to a doorway can enhance that part of your home where you can go to relax after a long day on the job. Flowers can be combined with small vegetable plants to harmonize the setting and provide some naturally grown, healthy food for the dinner table. Growing vegetables alone is not only healthy but can save on your food bill.

Small containers can be useful inside your home, as well. Apartments can be brought to life with a few colorful flowers in small color coordinated containers. Windows can be bordered with hanging containers sprouting herbs and spices. Find a gap or empty space in your home's d�cor and place a small plant there to complement or enhance the features of the room. Find a plant with just the right aroma and you can set the stage for your next special evening.

If your soil is poor (or non-existent), container gardening is the perfect solution. Potting soil and plant food is an inexpensive alternative which provide the best growing environment in containers. If your deck or patio has limited sunlight, containers can be placed to receive the best possible growing conditions. There is a wide variety of plants which flourish well in light shade. You can even combine two or three different plants in the same container to create a special effect.

Container gardening is very rewarding for a variety of reasons. Experiment with different containers and different plants. Modify an old lunch box or child's cowboy boot to have your garden tell a story. Don't be afraid to mix small colorful flowers among your vegetables. This will provide more contrast to your yard or patio. Move them around to change the d�cor and enjoy the robust colors and aromas. You'll see that your home takes on a new and vibrant appearance.

So, search out some attractive containers, plant something just to get started and let your creativity take over. For more insights to small container gardening, see http://smallcontainergardening.com.

Joe Michehl

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