Save those Dollars with a Container Garden
With the Pandemic still looming over our heads along with other social and world issues that are seeking to stagger or cripple our economy from rebounding we have to now think outside of the box with better spending habits to stretch those dollars so they can go a bit further. The rise in food costs has sparked an interest as many people are starting backyard gardens to reduce spending hoping to save a bit more.
Flower gardens are being removed completely or partially making room to grow food crops, this new inspiration has many homeowners connecting with nature outdoors as they get their hands dirty (working with garden soils) reaping a good harvest from the time and few dollars invested that can spell big paydays as that small saving amounts to much.
Both my wife and I have started our backyard garden growing foods helping us to save on that food bill, you too can have this seem experience of growing foods both outdoors or in an indoor environment. If you are looking for ways to stretch your hard-earned dollar then look no further we will be looking at the many opportunities of growing food crops in containers.
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Growing Food in Containers
1. Choosing the container is so important, the containers should be large enough because with more space you will be giving your plant’s root more room to grow which will encourage a stronger root system and healthy top growth. Smaller containers will not be able to store more water, especially during hot days.
Clay pots although more attractive tend to dry quicker, plastic containers will hold moisture better, ensure however that the container has drain holes for water drainage. Once plants have been watered that extra water needs to drain or root rot will set in.
2. Know the water needs of your plants and give them that, no more no less, if growing plants from seeds the instructions should be on the seed package. If growing from seedlings then your plant nurseryman should be able to help you with this information. But as a rule, to go by the soil should be somewhat moist not waterlogged or saturated.
3. The soil that’s chosen can be organic or garden soil that drains well but will retain the right amount of moisture for plant root uptake.
4. When growing edible food crops organic fertilizers should be chosen over synthetics although synthetics can be used as well.
5. When locating your container ensure your container is getting sufficient sunlight, knowing the light requirements of your edible crops can be found if growing from seeds on the seed package. If growing from seedlings then your garden nurseryman is your best source of information.
If locating containers indoors place containers near a south or west-facing window, these areas get most of the sunlight, grow lights can also be installed which is another great way to give your edible garden the lighting they need.
6. Garden pests can be another issue but can be controlled, which edible crop you’re growing get information from your nurseryman on what to watch out for.
The Advantages of Growing Food in Containers
- Even if you have limited space or no space to work with a container garden will make it possible to grow food crops
- The investment cost is lower
- The maintenance cost is small
- Little weeding to no weeding at all
- Food crops can still be grown where garden soils are hard to work with, for example, poor soils
- These gardens are portable so if conditions become unfavorable containers can be moved to a secure location and then return once the weather becomes favorable again
- Disease and Garden Pests issues are kept at a minimum
- These gardens can be brought indoors provided plants are getting sufficient sunlight along with other requirements
- Food crops are at a hand reach
- You can extend the season (even during the winter months) by growing food crops indoors or in a secure location
The Disadvantage of Growing Food in Containers
- There may be limitations in what you can grow
- Soil tends to dry out quicker
- Because these plants are planted in containers they are depending on you to keep them well-watered
- Since container-grown plants are not planted directly into the soil where they can take up nutrients through their roots you must ensure they’re properly fertilized
Best Herbs that can be Grow in containers
- Thyme
- Chives
- Garlic
- Rosemary
- Mint
- Basil
- Parsley
- Greek Oregano
- Lemon balm
- Chives
- Sage
- Cilantro
- French tarragon
Best Vegetables to Grow in Containers
- Tomatoes
- Green onions
- Potatoes
- Lettuce
- Carrot
- Squash
- Peppers
- Chads
- Beans
- Eggplant
- Cucumbers
- Arugula
- Beets
- Sweet Peppers
Best Fruits to Grow in Containers
- Peaches and Nectarines
- Plums
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Cherries
- Figs
- Apple
- Pineapple
- Citrus
- Lemons
- Watermelons
Additional information for Growing Food in Containers
- Because you’re growing an organic garden organic pesticides should only be used.
- Home-made pesticides have proven t0 be effective in getting the job done as well
- Weeds that appear can easily be removed by hand pulling, avoid the use of weed-killers
The final word on growing food in containers
Growing foods in containers are not new, this method of growing garden ornamental plants as well as edible food crops has been around for some time but because of the economy and the rising price in food cost container gardens are on the increase. I believe although we are faced with such issues these issues have provided opportunities for us to connect with nature both in and outdoor as well. Go ahead and give this method of growing food crops a try you will be so happy with the results as you reap a good harvest that costs you nothing more than a few dollars and little time spent. This kind of investment only makes sense.
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.