| Here are a few important tips for choosing the right containers:
- Watch what types of plastics you use. Plastics containing the numbers 1, 2, 4, and 5 are least toxic and ok for plant use. This number can generally be found on the bottom of most plastic containers.
- Good drainage holes. Many pots look really nice but if they don’t have drainage holes in the bottom, then your plant roots will become waterlogged. This also applies to DIY containers and raised beds. Be sure to drill drainage holes.
- No aluminum. Researchers believe the aluminum from cans can get into the soil and reduce the root growth. This is ok for flowers, but not for garden vegetables or plants to be consumed. For that reason, there are no aluminum containers on the SAG site. This includes aluminum coffee pots, soup cans, and soda cans.
- Terracotta. Terracotta is a beautiful garden pot but can get very hot and dry the soil out quickly. If using terracotta, be sure to water your plants more frequently.
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| | Speaking of containers, we get a lot of questions about the perfect container to use for beginner gardeners or those with limited space. We happen to love the Earthbox. You can actually grow multiple plants in this single container. It’s so easy to use and even comes with wheels. We grew kale all winter long in this amazing container. |
| | | Great news to share!
Summer crops are on the site. Now it's time to begin building your summer garden.
We have also added some new container options. Containers are key and can make or break your garden efforts. Size, depth, material, and drainage holes all matter.
If you intend to grow all, or a portion of your plants this year in pots (or even raised beds), these tips are for you.
First and foremost, carefully choose your depth size.
A small Deck Planter box only 7-inches deep will limit your vegetable options to just a few.
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| | | A container 11-inches deep like the Earthbox allows you to plant a plethora of veggies.
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| | | A container 14-inches deep (similar to a 5-gallon bucket) allows you to plant nearly any vegetable that can grow in a container.
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Use the SAG site to strategize your container. This is also helpful to use when building your own planter box.
Next up, we'll be talking about how to transplant your seedlings. The weather is warming up and we're just about ready to move outdoors.
Kirk Curry Master Gardener Co-Founder, Start A Garden |
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