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Container gardens:are options for persons with limited space enjoying gardening. Most of containers are mobile end easy to move on patios, balconies, and window boxes.
However, a container plant growing in an exposed location is under more stress, and requires more frequent watering. The effects of hot, dry winds may be more severe than in conventional gardens.
Soil mixes: when ordinary soil is saturated with water, the air spaces are filled, removing essential air from the roots. Therefore, It is recommended to use a soil substitute, called potting mix, free of disease organisms, insects, or weeds. Also, additional ingredients such as peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite that allow rapid drainage but still hold sufficient water for plant growth
Containers: are available in various sizes, shapes, and styles. Plastic are more common however tend to break. Clay is absorbent and allows water loss from the sides of the container. Wood is a popular material both redwood and cedar are relatively rot resistant and can be used without staining or painting as well as exterior grade plywood. It is essential for a container to have holes in the bottom for draining excess water.
Size: depends on the type of plants you plan to grow. There shall be a balance between the top growth and root systems of plants. Plants in a hot patio exposed to winds, or in elevated locations, may need a slightly larger container than those in more protected areas. Most small vegetables will grow in containers ranging from 12 cm / 5 inch pots to a 4 L / gallon-size. Larger vegetables, such as dwarf tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers will require 4 L – 12 L / 1 to 3 gallon containers.
Fertilizer: since potting mixes drain water rapidly, causing fertilizer to be washed out while watering, the lost fertilizer needs to be replaced. Lighter mixes will require more frequent fertilizing than heavier mixes containing soil. Controlled-release or time-release fertilizers also widely available. These are pellets designed to release fertilizer gradually over a long period of time.
Watering: since containers are usually placed in an exposed location, water is lost from the containers quickly. There is no rule of thumb on how often to water because it varies with the type of plant, potting mix, weather, and type of container. You may find that daily watering is needed during hot, dry periods. One advantage of using a potting mix is that it is nearly impossible to over-water, as the water quickly drains from the container.
Check your plants regularly and look for signs of wilting to indicate a need for water. Another method is to stick your finger into the potting mix to feel the dryness. Always apply sufficient water to allow a small amount to come out of the bottom drain hole.
Always use sprinkling to apply water.
Culture and care: plants need care and attention throughout the season, insects and disease can be concerns because plants are growing under more stress and with limited root systems. Control measures are similar to those for conventional gardening.
What to grow: vegetables require sunny locations and differ in productivity depending on the type of crop. Many gardeners grow herbs near the kitchen to use in cooking.
Some herbs are recurring and can be moved indoors for winter use or held in the container until next year, decorative plants
Vegetables varieties to grow:
Spring/Fall: Beets, Carrot, Leaf lettuce, Onion, Radish
Summer: Bean, Cucumber, Eggplant, Muskmelon, Pepper, Squash, Tomato, Watermelon
Source: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S51.pdf
