Tips on container gardens
Containers. Pick a container that will be big enough for the plant when it is fully grown. Remember size and number.
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We have certain container guidelines that we recommend for some herbs and vegetables. For herbs like chives and some other herbs, we recommend at least a six-inch pot. For some vegetables like radishes, onions, and miniature tomato plants, we recommend a 10-inch pot. For larger vegetable plants, we recommend a five-gallon pail or plastic trash can.
*Good drainage is important so that plant roots will not have to stand in soggy soil. If your chosen containers do not have drainage holes, then make some. Make at least four quarter-inch holes. Space them evenly along the sides, near the bottom.
Soil. The use of a soil substitute, or synthetic soil, is recommended. Pick up a bag of Family Tree Nursery Potting Mix.
Seeds. It is important to use good quality seed. Do not use old seeds that might not germinate.
Light. Containers need to be placed where plants will get enough light. Vegetable plants, whose fruits are eaten (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers) need a lot of light and should be placed where they get at least 6 hours of full sun each day. Root vegetables (carrots, beets, radishes) can stand more shade than vegetable fruit plants. Leafy vegetables (lettuce, spinach, mustard greens) can stand more shade than root vegetables.
Fertilizer. Apply 1 level teaspoon of Family Tree General Purpose fertilizer per square foot of soil about three weeks after the plants have reached the two leaf stage, and again every three weeks. Use the water soluble mixed in your watering container, or the slow release granules.
Water. You have to be especially watchful when growing in containers because the soil may dry out more rapidly than it would in a normal garden situation. Water each time the soil becomes dry down to a depth of 1/8”. It is best to water your plants early enough in the day to allow leaves to dry out before night. Do not over water.
Weeds. Remove all weeds as they appear.