Tips for Caring for Container Gardens

By Susan M. Keenan

Consider the care that you take to prepare your container garden, and you will realize the importance of continuing that care. Fortunately, container gardens are easy to care for, especially if you have set them up properly. Follow the simple guidelines set forth here for a happy and healthy container garden throughout the season.

• Container gardens tend to dry out quickly, especially if they rest in the gaze of the bright sun. Check your garden by feeling the soil. If the potting or soil free mix feels dry to the touch approximately one inch below the surface, then it is time to water your container garden. Remember not to plant with regular soil since that has a tendency to become water logged.



• When you are watering, take the time to do it properly. Water the plants slowly until the water begins to seep through the drainage holes. As the plants grow and begin to demand more water, check the container more frequently. Additionally, as the weather grows hotter or during exceptionally warm spells, check the container frequently for dryness.



• If your container ever becomes extremely dried out, it may be necessary to soak the container thoroughly. Difficult to reach containers can be watered easily with a watering wand. Wands add length to the gardener's reach, and simplify the job.



• Since frequent, though needed, watering can quickly remove vital nutrients from the potting soil, using additional fertilizer is recommended. The easiest way to add fertilizer is to employ a timed-release fertilizer that does most of the work for you. Timed-release fertilizer is available in tablet and stick form, and should be added in the beginning of the planting.



• Once the container garden is already planted, moisten the soil when adding fertilizer of any type. Container gardens should be given a healthy dose of fertilizer approximately every two weeks when using a liquid fertilizer. Diluting the solution to a 50 percent solution is also a good idea.



• Removing spent blooms will encourage the growth of new blossoms. This will keep your flowers looking colorful throughout the season.



• Caution should be exercised to prevent over watering, which can lead to root rot. Gardeners should also keep in mind that plastic containers will fade in the sun. Therefore, placing colored plastic containers in a shady location will promote a nice appearance for a longer time.

Quick tips to remember:

• Water when needed.
• Fertilize frequently.
• Remove faded and spent flowers.

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