This week I’m guest posting over at Self Reliant School.
Container gardening is one of my secret tricks for a getting a big harvest. I love that you can pot up just about any plant and then put them around the yard in extra space. The only limit is your imagination.
3 Container Gardening Tips
1. Save money and recycle some of the containers. Options include:
- // 5 gallon buckets
- // galvanized tubs
- // garbage cans
- // plastic tubs
The only requirement for these reclaimed pots is that you must give them adequate drainage holes. Otherwise you will lose your plants during the rainy months. They will become waterlogged and the plant roots will suffocate.
2. Plan on Extra Watering.
On hot days, the soil in containers will dry out much faster than soil in the ground. That means a different watering schedule. If this is your primary garden you may want to consider installing drip irrigation. Otherwise twice daily watering may be in order.
3. Don’t be afraid to “think outside the planter”.
Every fruit and vegetable can be grown in a container. It just needs a container the right depth for it’s root size. I’ve grown potatoes in a laundry basket, the three sisters in a big plastic tub, a bumper crop of basil and salad greens in a gutter garden. I say if you want to grow it – go for it! You have nothing to lose and will only gain experience.
Get more container gardening tips in the post at Self Reliant School:
Grow Your Own Food In A Container Garden
What is your view on cinderblock raised beds? A lot of people use them but other say they are toxic. I’ve heard the same about some metal buckets too.
Hi Tina, I’ve not heard that cinder blocks were toxic and in fact I’ve had several of these gardens in that past and have not had a bit of problem with them. They go up fast and they’re inexpensive. My best one was 2 blocks high and had a screen door on top for frost protection. That thing worked fantastic! You could always use them for flowers if you’re concerned. Thanks for stopping by!