From time to time, people ask me what can I grow in a pot on
my patio? Balcony? Or outside my back door?
My reply is . . . anything! Which
is true, but there are basic rules of gardening that apply, like making sure
the plant you put in that pot is conducive to the zone you live in, and is
there enough sunlight in that area to support the plant’s needs.
Vegetables - Most any vegetable will do well in a pot given
enough sunlight and root space. Don’t
expect a tomato to grow well in a confined space. Beans, broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers,
eggplant, onions, squash, or tomatoes are a few examples of what grows well in
a container.
Flowers – Annuals are my favorites when it comes to
container gardening. Their short life
span makes them attractive bloomers all summer long. I generally use a large
pot and pack in every flower imaginable. I rarely spread them out because I the
fuller the pot the more I enjoy it. The
roots grow deep with a bigger pot, but it also means I have to stay on top of
watering. I’ll generally place at least
one plant in each pot that is a little more sensitive to water deprivation than
the others. If that plant starts to
wilt, I know I’ve gone too long between waterings. Some of my favorite annuals are geraniums,
coleus (just for the variety of colors available), impatiens and petunias.
Herbs, roses, shrubs, ornamental grasses, and perennials are
also great additions to your container garden, too. Generally, it’s up to you and your
imagination.
Your turn: What do
you like to grow in a container?
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