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Note: This section is now in the archives and the advice service has finished but feel welcome to look over these previously posted questions and answers.
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Question:
What is meant by container gardening and why is it so popular?
Answer:
Any plant grown with roots contained within anything other than open soil is said to be container grown. It's a great way to introduce change within a garden as the plants can be easily moved when they're out of season. For most people a bright pot of annuals is an obvious way to inject a bit of colour into an otherwise drab area of the patio, but there are other effective ways to use containers in the garden.
They can be used as a focal point in their own right.
Make a real statement with an oversized pot and a single architectural shrub such as a Cordyline or Yucca.
A brightly glazed container can be a focal point in its own right - just don't make it compete with the surrounding plants.
Get the modern look by using metal containers with a coloured grass such as Helictotrichon sempervirens
By using containers you can grow certain types of plant which might otherwise fail in your garden soil.
An old stone sink makes a wonderful (well drained) trough for alpines or succulents - ideal if your garden is soggy clay.
Moisture-loving plants love containers - just make sure you plug the drainage holes and seal the inside of the pot if it's porous.
Spring and summer bulbs look great in pots - and can be moved out of sight once flowering is over to allow leaves to die down.
Containers will naturally restrict root growth - this may even benefit certain plants.
Plants with invasive roots (like Bamboo) are much easier to keep under control if planted in a large container in the ground, but make sure it has adequate drainage holes.
Some plants will grow better if the roots are restricted - it actually encourages figs to fruit.
There too aren't many rules when it comes to successful container gardening, but the following points should be considered.
Always use the correct sized pot for the type of plant.
Make sure the pot is weather resistant.
Always use a potting mix in containers, never ordinary garden soil.
Ensure that the plants receive adequate water in hot weather as they can dry up in summer heat.
Ensure that the plants have adequate drainage as a build up of water can cause roots to rot.
More answered queries Here
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