Gardeners with limited space are able to grow a vast array of vegetables in a myriad of containers. These containers do not require a large space to succeed. They can be placed along walkways, set in flower beds and even suspended from the eaves of buildings.
Providing the correct soil mixture in the right size containers, plenty of sunlight and sufficient moisture, anyone can grow fresh produce for the family dinner table.
When it comes to soil many gardeners choose to use the soilless mixes found in garden centers. These are good choices for container grown vegetables. For those who would rather use soil, below is a recipe for a light soil mixture which works well for most potted vegetables.
Soil Mixture
- 1/3 well composted garden soil
- 1/3 Sphagnum peat moss
- 1/3 medium-coarse to coarse sand
When growing in containers, soil should be richer than that in the garden patch because nutrients are quickly washed out of containers. Utilizing moss in containers helps to keep the soil mixture light. The combination of moss and sand aids in keeping the soil aerated and allows water to drain. The sand and moss also help to prevent compacted soil. Soil should never become compacted. If this happens, roots will be deprived of water and nutrients.
Water
Vegetables in containers need watering more often that those grown directly in the ground as they tend to dry out quicker. One reason is that the water evaporates quickly.
- If clay or cement pots are used, it is a good idea to line the pot with food-grade plastic to prevent evaporation through sides of pot. Plastic should have holes poked through it to allow for drainage.
- Use 1-2 inches of bark or straw mulch on top of soil to slow evaporation from topside.
- Check soil often, never let it completely dry out but do not let soil become soggy either.
Light
- Vegetables in containers need the same amount of sunlight as those grown in the garden.
- Place containers so they receive full sunlight.
A few vegetables which will grow in partial shade are lettuces, onions, spinach and radishes. They may even benefit from a bit of shade once the summer heat begins.
Fertilizer
When seedlings have their first true leaves, give them a weak solution of compost tea once per week for one month. Slowly increase to full strength feeding twice weekly the second month. Many plants will begin to flower at this point; for those which do not, continue feeding twice weekly until fruiting begins. Once fruiting begins, feed only biweekly or discontinue feeding between flushes. (First, second, third etc. fruit sets)
Containers
- Choose the largest container possible.
- All containers must have drain holes.
Containers may be composed of many different materials including:
- Clay
- Concrete
- Metal
- Plastic
- Untreated Wood
Each type of container offers its own advantages and disadvantages.
Clay and concrete allow soil to dry out very quickly. Concrete can be quite heavy and hard to move but is also less likely to tip over thereby making it a good choice for heavy plants such as tomatoes.
Wood containers can be produced inexpensively by the gardener. These can be built to be suitable for the plants intended to be grown.
Metal containers will rust over time and may be hard to create drain holes in.
Plastic pots can be found in many shapes and sizes. They are very affordable and can be purchased at discount stores everywhere. Plastic is extremely lightweight and must be weighted down to prevent them from toppling over.
Proper preparation and regular maintenance allows even those with only a balcony to grow fresh vegetables.
For a list of vegetables which can be grown in containers see, “Twelve Vegetables for Containers.” Also, see the article, “How to Grow Asian Greens in Containers.”
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