We often think of the garden as a lush, sprawling piece of land.

But, we’re not all lucky enough to live on an expansive property. Fortunately, the garden can expand or contract to fit any space.

How? Through the magic of containers.

Container Gardening

Container gardening refers to the practice of growing plants in pots.

Instantly, gardening becomes accessible to anyone with outdoor space—be it a fire escape, a patio or anything in between.

Gardening with containers is also a great way to brighten up an otherwise dull or vacant space—with complete flexibility.

You can experiment with new plants, different color combinations, or seasonal interest. And if it doesn’t work, you can move the containers around until it does.

Volume

When gardening with containers, volume is key.

Groups of three or five will always create more visual interest than a single pot. In grouping pots, look to pair containers of different sizes, or use plant stands to create varied elevations.

To create even more impact, double down on volume. Any space can be completely redefined by covering as much of the surface as possible with potted plants. Suddenly, a concrete slab transforms into a vibrant garden.

Choosing containers

There are many options for containers. A few of the most popular materials are:

• Terracotta: An iconic pot that weathers beautifully over time. Terracotta pots absorb water, meaning you may have to water plants in terracotta more often.

• Ceramic: Ceramic pots offer a number of color, shape and style options. Note that these containers can be very heavy!

• Plastic: A lower cost option, plastic containers are offered in a growing array of styles. These pots are usually lighter weight and, for large pots, can be easier to move around or drag across a surface.

Containers don’t have to be limited to traditional garden pots. You can easily repurpose a galvanized bucket, crate or even old candle containers for planting.

Drainage

Moisture management is often the make or break factor in successful container gardens.

If your pot does not have a drainage hole at the bottom, you can use a drill to create one (using a masonry drill bit is a good choice for terracotta and ceramic pots).

If your pot does not have a drainage hole, and you are unable (or uncomfortable) drilling one, be sure to prep the container for proper drainage by adding material to the pot, prior to adding soil.

A base layer of rocks, packing peanuts, broken up styrofoam, or crushed cans will help keep plants from becoming waterlogged. You could also mix a handful or two of gravel into the potting soil.

Soil and fertilizer

Potting soil is a mixture made to be fluffy and lightweight, ensuring a plant’s roots can move through the soil with ease.

Oftentimes, a high-quality, organic potting soil is all you need for your plants to thrive. You could choose to add a little compost to the soil to enrich it further (though I usually don’t!). I use this potting soil from Fox Farms.

Never use soil from the ground in pots. It is far too compact and will suffocate the root system of your plants!

Many potted plants will benefit from being fertilized regularly, because they are not getting nutrients they would usually get from ground soil. An organic liquid seaweed is enjoyed by most plants. I use this one by Neptune’s Harvest.

Light and water

Just like outdoor gardening, make sure the lighting conditions of your space, and the light requirements for the plants you select, are a match.

Begonias, impatiens and ferns all prefer shade. Herbs, tomatoes and cosmos will flourish in full sun.

Regular watering is also critical.

Plants in pots need to be watered more regularly than plants in the ground. In the heat of the summer, it’s not uncommon to water your pots every day.

To see if your plants need water, stick your finger into the soil about an inch. If it’s dry, it’s time to water!

The best gauge for how much water is enough is to water until it runs out the bottom of the planter, through the drainage hole.

The perfect plants

Any number of plants will grow happily in containers, from annuals and perennials, vegetables, even shrubs and ornamental trees!

Consider adding a mix to your space to dial up the visual interest.

Here are just a few (of many) suggestions to get you started:

• Annuals: Dahlias, zinnias, impatiens, caladium

• Perennials: Lavender, clematis, hostas, coral bells

• Edibles: Tomatoes, peppers, strawberries

• Shrubs: Rose bushes, hydrangeas, boxwoods

• Trees: Japanese maple, dwarf fruit trees, dwarf Alberta spruce

🌸 Flower I’m admiring

Alliums! The whimsical, rich purple spheres seem to float atop the other plants in the garden, reminiscent of a Dr. Seuss landscape. My “Persian Blue” variety is in full bloom right now, while the gigantic buds of the “Ambassador” variety get ready for a late spring show!

🍰 Snack I’m craving

Maybe it’s all the talk of the recent coronation, but I’m itching to bake a Victoria sponge. I think I’ll try this recipe over the weekend. And maybe take some decorating inspiration from Matilda Carr’s creations.

🍄 What I’m inspired by

The paintings of the late Richard Schmid and his wife, Nancy Guzik. Richard Schmid (1934-2021) was a master artist specializing in impressionistic realism across landscape and portraiture. He became known for the “Grand Manner,” described “a certain mingling of virtuosity and unrestrained joy in art.”

His wife, Nancy Guzik is also an accomplished artist known for her paintings of still life and people. While Richard and Nancy’s work spans subject matter, their floral paintings are particularly moving with an undeniable sense of the “Grand Manner,” don’t you think?

Are you growing anything in containers? I have cornflowers, geraniums, forget-me-nots, pansies and a gardenia in flower pots along my front steps. Let me know if you’re going to give it a shot this summer!

xx

Courtney

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