Water Requirements
Pay particular attention to watering container plants. Because the volume of soil is relatively small, containers can dry out quickly during the hotter summer months, especially if they are on a concrete patio in full sunlight. Daily or twice-daily watering may be necessary. Apply water until it runs out the drainage holes.
Clay pots and other porous containers may need water more frequently, as they allow additional evaporation from the sides of the pots. Small pots also tend to dry out more quickly than larger ones. If the soil appears to be getting excessively dry (plants wilting every day is one sign), group the containers together so that the foliage creates a canopy to help shade the soil and keep it cool. You may also add a light layer of mulch to help slow evaporation.
Use the finger test or a moisture meter to check for soil moisture and water accordingly, if necessary.
Light Requirements
The amount of sunlight your container garden spot receives may determine which plants can be grown. Check light requirements for specific plants.
Additional Tips & Reminders
- Plants growing in container gardens outdoors will require more fertilizer than those you grow indoors or under cover, as rainfall may leach more nutrients from the soil.
- Unlike plants that are growing in the ground an exposed to the higher temperature of the soil, plants grown in containers above ground will be exposed to air temperatures, which are often much cooler. Plants that are known to be more senstive to cold, or labeled as "semi-hardy" or "tender:, should be brought indoors in the event of severe cold weather conditions.
- Set your conatiner plants where they will receive the right exposure to sun.
- Water your outdoor container plants occasionally with a solution of fish emulsion or compost tea to add beneficial trace elements and nutrients that you plants will appreciate.
- Do not over-fertilize container plants. Doing so may cause accelerated growth that could compromise the health of the plant, making it weaker. Always refer to product label for appropriate mixing and application instructions.
- Mulch your container plants with a thin layer of compost, wood chips or pebbles to insulate, retain moisture and feed.
