Enjoyment of the fruits, as well as herbs and vegetables, of your labor starts with a good harvest. Pun intended.
Herbs are best harvested just before the flower buds appear since this is when they are at their most flavorful. You’ll want to trim them such that you leave at least four inches below a pair of leaves in order to promote good regrowth.
Vegetables are best harvested as early in the morning as possible because sunlight raises their pulp temperature. The lower the pulp temperature at the time of harvest, the longer the shelf life of the harvested vegetables, so the earlier you start the better. Tomatoes are especially susceptible to chilling injuries and should never be refrigerated, while leafy greens will keep longer if picked directly into a bucket or bowl of cold water. In order to extend their life, leafy vegetables like lettuce can be harvested a few leaves at a time. Start with the outside leaves and leave the center of the plant to continue to grow.
Removing mature vegetables encourages the plant to set additional blossoms and yield more, so harvest them often. When vegetables like beans and tomatoes are allowed to over-ripen, they produce a chemical that inhibits further blossoming. As you approach the end of the growing season pinch off the last blossoms to redirect plant energy to maturing vegetables that have already set.
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Watching and caring for your plants is one of the most rewarding experiences that gardening has to offer. Your first job is to ensure your plants have the necessary nutrients for them to thrive. The basics are covered in the Nutrients section.
A few other clever tricks will also help you to push your plants to reach their maximum potential. For example:
Flowers will bloom more abundantly if blossoms are removed as they wilt and fade. This process is referred to as dead-heading and it prevents flowers from going to seed.
Vegetables produce better yields if fruits are picked as they mature.
When choosing a container for single perennials and houseplants, choose one that is 1 or 2 inches larger all around than the previous pot. Plants do not like new pots to be too big, although they do like to be able to grow into them a little.
Plants that wilt even though you water them frequently may be suffering from heat stress. Try placing the container in a spot where only the leaves are exposed to direct sunlight, or insulating the pot by placing it in another larger container to create a rudimentary airpocket to help regulate temperature. Garden365 planter are double walled for that purpose.
Pinching out the growing tip at the top of a plant a little before it reaches its maximum height will encourage branching and bushiness, creating a fuller and healthier looking plant. This can also encourage further flowering and fruiting in some plants.
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Drainage is especially important when it comes to container gardening. Excess water around their roots can deprive plants of oxygen, eventually drowning them. Similarly, a moist oxygen-deprived environment is the ideal breeding ground for root-killing molds. Make sure your growing medium drains well (see Growing Medium) and that your containers have ample drainage holes. One of the handy features of specialized containers is that they have threaded drainage ports which can be opened or closed as needed. This allows you to close the drainage port when you bring your container garden indoors and vice versa. You can also use the ports with automatic watering systems or to control where water drains.
There is a lot of debate in the gardening world about the use of a drainage layer made of stones or pebbles at the bottom of container gardens. In my opinion, this is unnecessary and deprives plants of much needed growing space. This layer may also retain moisture, causing more problems than anything. Using a properly formulated container gardening growing medium is a much better option.
If you’re gardening on a deck or patio, be mindful of where containers are draining. Excess moisture underneath your planter can damage wooden decks and runoff can stain various surfaces. Elevate your container gardens to provide airflow and eliminate moisture issues. There are plenty of elevated and mobile container gardening solutions out there and they’re well worth the investment. You can also make your own stand if you’re DIY inclined.
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In order to grow healthy plants, a growing medium must be able to consistently supply water and nutrients, as well as, provide a structure in which your plants can take root. There are two categories of growing mediums typically used in container gardening: soil mixtures and soil-less mixtures.
Soil mixtures, which are widely referred to as potting mixes, are often heavy and hold water and nutrients more easily than soil-less mixtures. They are traditionally composed from soil, compost or peat moss, and vermiculite or perlite. Composted manure can also be added to soil mixtures to increase water-holding capacity and the abundance of nutrients.
These mixtures are typically cheaper than soil-less mixtures, and those that contain compost or composted manure require fewer applications of fertilizers and micro-nutrients because they already contain the majority of nutrients that your plants will need to grow.
However, I generally discourage the use of soil mixtures in container gardening because they are prone to compacting, which can inhibit root growth, affect aeration, and cause poor drainage. They are much heavier than soil-less mixtures making moving and handling container gardens more difficult. Soil mixtures are also more likely to contain weeds, seeds and disease, particularly when they contain compost or unpasteurized soil. The flaws seem to outweigh the benefits in most cases so soil-less mixtures are a better option for container gardening.
As the name suggests, soil-less potting mixtures do not contain soil. Instead, they are commonly made from sphagnum moss, peat moss, coconut coir fiber, perlite or vermiculite. This type of growing medium is sterile, offering the added benefit of being weed, seed, bacteria and disease free. For most gardeners, this offers the assurance that your seedlings will not be susceptible to attack by pre-existing diseases and organisms, allowing your plants to thrive.
Potting soil-less mixtures are lighter than traditional soil mixtures, which make them a good choice for raised container gardens and vertical gardens, which have the potential to buckle under heavy loads. Lighter medium also means less compaction, greater aeration, and more consistent drainage. Because soil-less mixtures can be created from a variety of components, they allow you to customize the physical structure of the soil to meet specific plant needs.
In comparison to soil mixtures, soil-less mixtures do require more frequent applications of organic fertilizers and micro-nutrients, as they often lack the full range of nutrients necessary for healthy plant growth. However, this factor can actually be an advantage because by ensuring that your plants’ specific nutrient needs are being met, you are also ensuring that your plant will yield abundant produce of the highest quality. Keep in mind that careful attention must be paid to the level of salts present in fertilizers to prevent buildup in container gardens. It should also be noted that due to the ease with which soil-less mixtures drain, fertilizers and micro-nutrients may need to be applied regularly.
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When it comes to container gardening, size can make all the difference. The general rule of thumb is: the bigger the better. Plants need plenty of room to spread their roots in order to thrive.
When growing vegetables in particular, the best yields are obtained when plants are grown in a container which as at least half as deep as the plant’s mature height. Therefore, most vegetables require containers that hold 6 to 8 inches of potting mix. Tomatoes, squashes and other large plants require deeper containers, as do root crops such as carrots and beets. However, the growing medium in deeper containers is more prone to compacting, so 12 to 15 inches is all you really need to grow most plants. Even fruits like lemons, blueberries and papaya can be grown in containers of this size with regular attention.
Large containers are also more forgiving as the extra soil or growing medium provides insulation for the plants’ roots; they are less likely to dry out than smaller containers, and also take longer to heat up on sunny summer days, preventing heat stress and wilting. However, there is an obvious trade-off between size and portability, so chose the container that best accommodates your needs. There are many dwarf varieties of plants that have been developed specifically for container gardening and are more likely to thrive in smaller containers if your place can’t accomodate a larger one.
Recommended minimum container size for various plants
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One of the most exciting aspects of container gardening is the huge number of container options available to suit your gardening needs. Almost any type of container can be used for gardening as long as it large enough and provides for adequate drainage. You can choose from sleek ready-made container gardens, re-purpose an existing container, or make your own from various materials such as wood or concrete. Look for containers that are:
Large enough to sustain the plants you are trying to grow;
Offer good drainage; and
Are appropriate for your gardening space.
The material that containers are made of plays an important role in the rate at which water evaporated from the soil or other medium that sustains your plants. Containers typically fall into two categories: porous and non-porous.
Plastic, metal, glass and glazed ceramic containers are non-porous and are great for outdoor use because they slow the rate at which water will evaporate from the container. This means that your plants will have more consistent access to moisture, and you will have to water them less often. In addition, non-porous containers can be left outdoors over winter because they don’t absorb water and are therefore less likely to crack when temperatures dip below freezing.
Porous containers, such as those made of clay, fabric and wood, are all popular options but do require a little extra care. They’re not as good at slowing evaporation and as a result require more frequent watering. Since they do absorb water, it is better not to leave them outdoors over winter in colder zones where temperatures dip below freezing.
If you do decide to go with a wooden container, stay away from pressure-treated lumber; it is impregnated with toxic chemicals which are likely to leach into the soil, and can be absorbed by plants. The same can be said for shipping crates, which are often used to make small vertical gardens. Safer options include redwood and red cedar, both of which are naturally water resistant and make an excellent choice for container gardening. Other types of wood may also be used, but should be sealed or lined with plastic in order to decrease evaporation and prevent the wood from rotting.
One of the main advantages of using containers specifically designed for container gardening is that they provide handy features that are not otherwise available in conventional pots. Many solutions are mobile so they can be taken indoors during the colder months, or moved around to receive maximum sunlight. Self-watering and wicking containers, which help to reduce the evaporation of water, are also widely available. Elevated gardens are easier on the knees and back and are generally more enjoyable to use. They’re also an excellent choice for decks and balconies where railings screen out the sun. Vertical and hanging planters are great for making better use of space and can be used to grow many plants upside-down. The images below depict some of the many different options available today.
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I hope these flower container ideas and tips spark your imagination. Let’s start by covering some basics. Flowers typically fall into two categories; annuals and perennials. Large outdoor planters are the perfect way to grow these living bouquets! Many are easy to grow from seed, meaning that you can experiment with a variety of different types of flowers very economically, and even save your own seed. Annuals are often purchased as pre-planted flowering pots. Countless varieties are available at hardware stores, supermarkets, and garden centers. These plants can add instant color to a container garden, and are an excellent way to quickly replace an under-performing plant in an otherwise stunning display. However, because they have usually begun flowering well before we buy them, they do not bloom for as long as plants grown from seed nor are they as hardy.
In order to extend the life of your flower displays, keep the spent flowers trimmed off. This is called “deadheading.” Removing the flowers before they can set seed encourages the plant to produce even more flowers. Flowers make excellent displays on their own, or can be combined with herbs and vegetables for a stunning and edible display! Edible flowers, like nasturtiums and pansies, make a fantastic addition to summer salads. Because annuals live only one season, you can choose a new look for your container each year. When you design your annual container, keep in mind these flower container ideas and tips:
Consider foliage plants with interesting shapes, colors, or textures as the “background” of your composition.
Keep the color wheel in mind: If you want the colors to pop, choose colors from opposite sides of the wheel—like purple and yellow. If you want a more soothing look, choose analogous colors—those that are next to each other—like shades of pink and pastel oranges.
Shapes of flowers add interest to the arrangement. Use a variety for best results.
If plants get leggy or overgrow the container, trim them back. When they are truly spent, did them up gently and replace them.
Plant more flowers than you would normally plant in a garden. You want to keep the bloom dramatic.
Good choices for containers in sunny spots are marigolds, geraniums, sunflowers and petunias. In part-shade, alyssum, lobelia, nemesia and nicotiana all bloom well. In very shady areas, try impatiens, pansies and violas. Perennial foliage plants like yucca and lamb’s ear, or attractive herbs like lavender, mint and thyme, make excellent foliage plants as the “background” to a composition.
Popular Flower Choices
Below is a list of 25 popular choices suitable for container gardening:
Share Your Flower Container Ideas
I hope this article sparked some flower container ideas and I would love nothing more than for you to share them with us. Nothing sparks creativity like inspiring images of beautiful arrangements. Please use the form below to share your creations with the rest of our community. Thank you for stopping by.
We are Garden365 and we love gardening. We hope sharing our tips and ideas will help you on your journey of becoming a better gardener.
*Please note, when you buy products through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This helps to keep the website free for our readers. Thanks for your support!
Perennials are plants that die back to their roots in winter and grow back again in the spring, year after year. Growing perennials in containers is not difficult. There are lots of beautiful perennials to plant. Many perennials bloom for a long time. Another advantage of perennials is that they save you money over time because you don’t have to buy new plants every year.
Care of perennials is similar to that of other plants. One difference is that if growth becomes less vigorous after a few years. When your plant starts looking weaker, it needs to be divided. This means that when the plant is dormant (not in the active growing season) it should be dug up refresh the root ball. The procedure is simple. You dig up the root ball and cut or pull apart the clump of roots. Keep the younger, healthier-looking parts of the roots and replant them in the soil. Your perennial may appear a little weaker right after division, but will bounce back with a burst of vigor.
Perennials can do very well in container gardens. If you live in a very cold climate, the delicate perennial root system can freeze over the winter. Always choose plants that are suitable for your growing zone and use large containers. The larger the container, the better chance the plant will have to survive the cold. If you live in a warm climate, planting the perennial in the fall gives it a good chance to develop a strong root system over the winter for spring growth.
Popular Perennials For Containers
Below is a list of 25 popular choices suitable for container gardening. Perennials that grow and are more likely to survive the winter frost in containers include salvia, campanula, phlox, scabiosa, and daylilies.
Growing Perennials In Containers
Growing perennials in containers is rewarding year after year. Beautify your home with a gorgeous floral arrangement. You can also grow many different edible plants. Whichever route you choose, container gardens are an excellent way to grow these very resilient plants.
We are Garden365 and we love gardening. We hope sharing our tips and ideas will help you on your journey of becoming a better gardener.
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Balconies are a great opportunity to let your creativity blossom. A little prep will go a long way in selecting the best balcony plants for your garden oasis. From flowers, herbs, and vegetables, to fruits trees, balconies offer plenty of gardening potential.
No two balconies are exactly alike so get to know your space before running out to the garden store. Spend a day making notes about where the light hits, how long it stays, and any periods of shade. Note the direction that your balcony faces. These observations will help you pick the best balcony plants and planters that will work best for you.
Vegetables & Herbs
A proper amount of sunlight is essential for plants to thrive. Tomatoes and peppers are sun lovers so you’ll need to raise them above the railing to ensure they get enough light. This can easily be accomplished with an elevated garden or a vertical garden planter. Lettuce, spinach, and kale can handle more shade and are best grown below.
Herbs are very adaptable and are generally considered best balcony plants. Consider growing anti inflammatory herbs for great health benefits. Having fresh herbs at your fingertips will also add a lot of flavor to your meals. Your foodie friends will admire you for it.
Flowers
There is an endless variety of flowers for use on balconies. Aromatic flowers like lavender can be chosen for their scent. Echinacea can be used to attract beneficial bugs. Be sure to consider sunlight in your selection to ensure bountiful blooms. There is also a variety of edible flowers you can choose from.
Fruit
Most fruit plants require 6-7 hours of sunlight per day. If your balcony can meet these needs, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious harvest each year. Focus on small dwarf varieties of fruit trees and bushes. Strawberries can be grown in space saving hanging planters. Blueberry bushes also look great growing in large container gardens.
Wildlife
Fruits and vegetables must be pollinated to produce. Companion planting them with flowers like Black-eyed Susan helps to get pollinators, like bees and butterflies, to notice your fifth story balcony garden. Alternatively you can pollinate your plants yourself using a q-tip but I would not recommend it.
Shade
A sunny balcony can get really hot in the summer. Shade producing plants can help keep the area cool and improve growing conditions of other plants. Tall flowering plants like hollyhocks and bamboo offer lots of shade. Trellised vines or vegetables such as peas and beans can diffuse the sunlight.
Privacy
Some balconies can feel exposed. Effective use of plants can create privacy. Plants that vine upwards like ivy, honeysuckle and climbing hydrangea can be trellised to provide a divider. Sunflowers are perfect on a sunny balcony. They can grow over five feet high to provide a cheerful fence line. Consider using a mobile container garden to create a moving divider for added privacy.
Best Balcony Plants and Planters
Selecting best balcony plants for your balcony is essential. Using proper planters is equally important. I developed Garden365 Container Gardens to meet specific needs of urban gardeners and plants alike. Choosing a combination of elevated, mobile, and vertical planters will help to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
When it comes to balcony gardens a little creativity, forethought, and experimentation can yield beautiful results! Selection of best balcony plants can be a fun and rewarding experience so go out there and have a blast. A beautiful balcony garden is a wonderful place to unwind. Don’t be surprised when it becomes your favorite “room”. Please let me know how it works out or share your ideas with other gardeners.
We are Garden365 and we love gardening. We hope sharing our tips and ideas will help you on your journey of becoming a better gardener.
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