Choosing a Container

The great thing about container gardening is that just about any type of container, of any size, can be used for planting. As long as the container has drainage holes in the bottom, it's a prime candidate.

Choose for Appearance

The main criteria for choosing a container is its appearance. An old plastic bucket can be used , but many home gardeners want something with a little more style to it.

A container, and the plants it contains, is chosen to convey a mood or feeling . The style and color of a garden container and its plants can be used to demonstrate creativity or create feelings of spirituality, tranquility, or whimsy.

The Many Uses of Containers

Container gardens, whether flowering plants or vegetables, can be used in a variety of ways. These include:

- Dividing outdoor space

- Providing focal points

- Hiding or screening undesirable views

- Accent the natural landscape

- Create privacy

Choosing Containers

Containers come in a huge variety of sizes. and materials. It's up to you to determine how much money to spend on a container. There are containers made from lightweight plastic (although with the appearance of heavier materials such as terra cotta) that are low-cost and perfect for easily moving around.

Other types of containers are made from materials such as concrete, terra cotta, wood....the list is nearly endless. Peruse a garden center and choose containers to meet your design needs and budget.

It is important to make sure your containers are large enough for the plants you're putting in them. For the proper healthy plant growth, there must be enough room in the container for adequate root growth and proper soil conditions. Too small, and the roots won't grow properly and the soil will become compacted. Both with result in unhealthy plant growth, or even the death of the plant. When in doubt, it's better to have a slightly larger container than one that's too small.

If you're planning on growing larger, more vigorous plants, it's a good idea to choose a study container (not lightweight plastic) to prevent it from tipping over easily and keep the strong roots from breaking the container.

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