Growing your own groceries has become increasingly popular. With the rising costs of food and concern for healthy vegetables, even the most novice gardeners are choosing to grow their own. Whether you have a small deck area or a larger garden space, growing vegetables can be a satisfying hobby with tasty results!
Container vegetable gardening allows you the most flexibility and is often the easiest for new gardeners. Here are basic steps to get you started:
1. Choose a Container
Container options are endless, however there are a few points to consider when choosing one. Pots should have drainage holes, and a minimum depth of 12″ for smaller vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, herbs. For tomatoes and peppers, a minimum 16″ depth is recommended. Portable containers such as the EarthBox or Tomato Barrel are excellent choices – these self-watering containers help maintain soil moisture.
2. Choose the Soil
Always use a mix designed for containers. Avoid garden soil, it’s heavy texture compacts, resulting in poor drainage. Sea Soil Container Mix is an excellent blend full of nutrients that plants will flourish in.
3. Choose the Plants
Any vegetable can be grown in a container, so pick what you love! Purchasing plants that are already started is always the easiest – try tomatoes, herbs or cucumbers. You can also direct seed many vegetables, such as carrots, lettuce and peas. Simply follow directions on the seed packets for planting requirements. It’s always best to combine plants with the same light and moisture needs, our staff are happy to help you choose the best combinations.
4. Watering & Fertilizing
Consistent watering is crucial and often required daily when it’s warm and sunny. If you are planning to be away, be sure to have a ‘plant sitter’ to keep up with the watering. Nutrients are also important for a successful harvest. While most container vegetables will be happy with a slow-release fertilizer such as Down to Earth Vegetable Garden Fertilizer, heavy feeders such as tomatoes, peppers and herbs will benefit from a weekly watering with a balanced fertilizer such as 15-30-15 or organic liquid kelp. This will ensure your veggies will grow successfully and you can enjoy them all summer long.
For more information on vegetable gardening visit greenlandgarden.com/helpful-tips.
