Growing in jazzy patio pots and decorative containers is the ultimate gardening hack for those short on space, are wanting to bring natural life to their patio or balcony, or are just on the hunt for something new aside from the typical bed and border displays.
Pots give you so much more flexibility – you can pretty much grow anywhere! You can control soil conditions and watering levels, and experiment with the plant varieties you grow, freeing yourself from the restrictions of your soil type.
Container gardening unlocks the door to so many green-fingered possibilities, and we have some top tips for choosing the right containers and how to plant your fresh beauties in them.
Choosing the Right Container for Your Garden’s Needs
The gardening world is filled to the brim with so many varieties of perennials, trees, roses, fruit plants, and more… And new varieties just seem to keep emerging!
However, just as the catalogue of plants available keeps growing, so too does the container options. Just take a browse online to see the mind-boggling plethora of options out there. In fact, containers don’t just look different, they also have different practical uses too.
For example, larger containers can hold a great volume of compost, therefore won’t dry out as quickly as others, so you won’t have to look after the varieties grown inside as much. Big containers can also be very pleasing on the eye and make a real statement.
Some pots are far shallower than others, therefore are perfect for growing those plants that are tolerant of drought, such as the Alpine Plant Lucky Dip Collection.
Besides from pot size, the materials the pots are made from also greatly differs. Such as:
A very popular option for a rustic and natural look container. Fruit trees particularly look good as they emerge from half barrels. Available as square planters and troughs, despite wood starting to rot in time, they can be lined and treated with wood preserver.
Ornate and modern, metal planters are popular for their durability and ability to resist freezing conditions. However, they can be high in price and can trap temperatures easily, falling very cold in wintery conditions and hot during prolonged summer spells.
Terracotta
Possibly the classiest style planter around. Once you feature a terracotta pot in your garden, it’ll last for years! Attractive and unglazed, but the pots can crack in wintery conditions if only treated to be frost-resistant, as opposed to frost-proof. Plants grown inside can dry quickly and terracotta pots can be towards the expensive end of the scale, but they are dependable for years to come.
Cheaper solutions, but just as stylish. These are typically lighter and easier to move around the garden, ideal for those less-mobile gardeners, and they’re available in different shapes, sizes, and colours, so are sure to match the overall décor of the garden. Plastic pots can even be purchased in a terracotta style, offering the best of both worlds.
When to Plant in Containers and Pots
The time of the year to get planting truly revolves around the variety or varieties you are choosing to grow in containers. New perennial plants that will be features of your garden for years to come should be planted in early spring or autumn, while tender summer-flowering plants can go out between late May and early June, once any risk of frost has passed.
Autumn is the ideal time to plant spring bulbs and winter-flowering displays
How to Plant and Grow in Containers and Pots
The basics of planting in a container is largely similar to how you would plant in a border or bed, but there are some key differences to bear in mind.
Add a layer of the best quality compost you can afford to the base of the container, aiming for a height so when you lower the plant into the pot, the surface sits about 5cm below the rim – this may seem like a small amount of compost at first, but we’ll top it up later! Firm down with your hands to remove any air bubbles that form.
Gently remove your plant for its container and lower it into the pot, then add extra compost around the edges, filling any gaps, continuing to firm down as you go. Now your plant is in place, give it a good water! Water slowly and thoroughly.
We’re not quite done yet! Spread a layer of mulch across the top of the exposed compost to retain moisture, particularly if you have planted a tree or shrub, then use stones, gravel, or bark chippings to stop weeds from appearing.
Congratulations! You now have an attractive potted plant, but be sure to keep an eye on it as container-growing plants will need a bit more aftercare than those in the ground.
Continue to water regularly, regardless of age, as these plants won’t be able to access water from the ground. Apply a general fertiliser in spring to boost nutrient intake and prune plants as needed for each variety. Frost tender plants should be moved indoors or covered with frost protective fleece or materials when sub-zero temperatures are forecast. Moving a pot to a sheltered spot is ideal, such as a conservatory, greenhouse, or even a lean-to.
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