Let's start with the container.  Any container will do, so use your imagination and make it your own.  Think outside the "pot" and try things like old buckets, rain boots, or colorful plastic tubs to really make a statement.  Just be sure to drill drain holes in the bottom of whatever vessel you choose. In fact, ensuring your container has proper drainage is most important in making your container garden healthy and long lasting.

Once you've chosen your vessel, it's time to add your your soil.  To further ensure proper drainage I always recommend adding a layer of rocks or gravel at the very bottom and then add your planting soil on top of it.  A good container mix found at any garden retailer will contain all the necessary nutrients your plants will need.  Now on to the fun part...the plants!

What you plant will be determined by where your container is being placed and its function. If you like to try something different each year, plant annuals which will give great blooms and variety all summer, but will not return the following year.  If you want your container plants to last year round, plant evergreens or boxwood but be sure not to plant them in ceramic or terra cotta pots which will most likely crack due to weather extremes. 

A visit to your local nursery or home improvement store should provide you with all the necessary information required for selecting the right plants for your area.  Be sure to check tags for sun and water requirements and group plants accordingly.  If the planter is to be placed against a wall or fence, plant the tallest items toward the back.  If the planter is going to be viewed from all sides the tallest plantings will go in the middle.  Don't be deceived by the heights of the plants when you purchase them, as some plants start small but grow tall, and always check the tag for the mature height.

Lastly, containers require frequent watering or they will dry out.  Try placing a water filled wine bottle neck down into the soil to help with this task. 

Happy gardening!

Top Ten Reasons to "Plant in a Pot"

With countless options available, container gardens can serve many purposes, so before you begin, pick your reason and plant accordingly.

1. Create a focal point:  If your garden lacks a place for your eye to rest, a strategically placed pot will help draw your attention.
2. Bring life to a shady corner:  do large trees or other structures make for lifeless corners?   Add interest with a pots filled with colorful, deep shade loving coleus.
3. Make a welcoming entrance:  Pots with fragrant flowers by the front door are a lovely welcome for you and your guests.
4. Be smarter then a fox:  If your vegetable garden is the local wildlife salad bar, try moving your planting to a container on your deck or patio.
5. Perfect for tight spaces:  Even the smallest patio can be enhanced by container gardens.
6. Garden year round:  That's right, container gardens are not just for outside.  Try a terrarium and garden all year long!  (Click here to learn how) 
7. Makes a great gift:  Cut flower fade, but a container filled with beautiful, fragrant flowers will last all season long.   Try it for Mothers day!
8. No weeding required:  If it's weeds that keep you from enjoying a lush garden, then containers are perfect!  Just make sure you start with good screened soil and you should be weed free!
9. Get the kids involved:  Children take pride in the things they create and container gardening is great way to develop a love of gardening.  Try having them plant there own fruits and vegetables...I bet they'll eat 'em!
10. Create a living screen:  Neighbors too close for comfort?  Try planting bamboo in containers.  This fast, tall growing plant can be quite invasive when planted in the ground, but stays just where you want when planted in containers.

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