Not everyone has access to a large backyard or open field, but most everyone does enjoy the idea of sampling fresh treats from the garden. The art of container gardening has grown in popularity as those with limited space seek ways to enjoy garden vegetables.

Container gardening offers some very significant advantages for growers in addition to the ability to enjoy a garden on a small, manageable scale. Pest problems can usually be handled easily, initial soil preparation is a breeze, and the time required to tend to the garden is usually minimal.

However, container gardening also has some unique characteristics that force gardeners to take extra, or at the very least different, measures than those used in traditional gardens in order to be successful. Consider some of these special hints for container gardening.

Water More

Plants housed in containers will require more frequent watering than their earth-tethered counterparts. This is because the smaller container provides much less buffering and is exposed on all sides (to at least some extent) to the winds. Water evaporates faster and drains through the more porous potting soils more quickly than what those with traditional garden experience may anticipate. Thus, one should be prepared to water his or her plants more often.

Use Small Varieties

Most any traditional garden vegetable can be grown in a container under the right circumstances. However, smaller varieties are more likely to excel. Consider cherry tomatoes or a small roma-type instead of the fist-sized monsters you might grow in an open field. If you are planning on growing cucumbers, concentrate your container efforts on smaller pickling varieties instead of the foot long tubes found on the ground. The smaller spaces and reduced quantity of available soil make it difficult to experience impressive harvests with larger varieties. Many varieties specifically designed for container use are now available at quality home and garden stores.

Choose Containers Carefully

Just because a vegetable can be grown in a container, one cannot assume it will grow in any container. Container choices are essential to success. One must be sure to pick containers deep and wide enough to allow for adequate root growth and development. Even if one can successfully grow a plant in a too-small container, it will not be as hearty or as productive as one grown in an adequate amount of soil. Small containers are fine for herbs and many other plants, but tomatoes and other plants will require larger containers.

Additionally, make sure your children get a chance at watching the product of their effort become their tasty suppers and lunches. Involve them in the preparation of harvested items for consumption and in cooking. This allows them to directly appreciate their own efforts and to take pride in the hours spent working in the garden.

Container gardening is a great way for apartment dwellers and others with limited space to enjoy the fun (and flavors) of a garden, but it does require some additional effort. By choosing containers and plant varieties carefully and then making sure they are watered adequately and ensured access to sunlight, one can greatly improve his or her chances of having a successful container garden.