Wyandotte County Kansas State Research & Extension Container Gardening Wyandotte County Kansas State Research & Extension

Container Gardening Gardening in small spaces – patios, balconies, window boxes Mobile gardening – move the plants to new locations; entertaining Less strenuous than conventional gardening

Challenges Plants may be under more stress from an exposed location Plants need more regular watering Large containers can be expensive and difficult to move when filled with potting mix.

Containers A variety of styles & sizes It is essential that the container has holes in the bottom for drainage Plastic, clay, and wood containers - porous or non-porous (moisture) - weight of the container Size of container – balance between top growth and root systems of plants flowers & small vegetables 6” vegetables & roses 1-3 gal

Creative Containers

Potting Mixes Soilless mix – does not contain soil Additional ingredients – peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite Rapid drainage, but still hold sufficient water and nutrients for plant growth

Potting Mixes Purchase from nursery or garden stores Make your own potting mix 2 parts sandy loam soil 1 part sphagnum peat moss 1 part perlite

Potting Mixes Free of disease organisms, insects, or weeds Do NOT put rocks or pebbles in the bottom of the container

Plant Selection One species or combining plants textures colors shapes/forms heights Use complimentary color purple & yellow blue & orange red & green

What to Grow? Flowers sunny locations: marigolds, geraniums, periwinkle (vinca), petunias shady locations: impatiens, begonias Vegetables lettuce, red chard, flowering cabbage & kale, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers Herbs basil, chives, thyme, mint

Hanging Baskets Originally designed to hang from trees Minimum basket size = 14”-16” Extend the length of the baskets chain or rope so that the plant is at eye level Plants dry out quickly, so check soil frequently May need to remove basket during high winds to prevent wind damage

Container Gardening You are growing a plant with a small, constricted root system so regular fertilizing and watering is important!

Watering Water is lost quickly from containers How often to water will depend on the type of plant, potting mix, type of container, and weather conditions Stick your finger in the top inch or so of the potting mix to feel for dryness Apply sufficient water to allow a small amount to come out of the bottom drain holes.

Fertilizing Water soluble fertilizers ¼ recommended rate every other watering unless continuous feeding directions are available Time release (controlled release) fertilizers designed to release fertilizer gradually over a long period of time.

Pest Control Insects & Diseases Can be a problem because plants are growing under more stress & with a limited root system Use control measures used in conventional gardening