Container Care

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Hanging baskets are just one of the many and varied container gardens in which to select from at the store.

Hanging Baskets, Patio Pots and Other Plant Containers

Container gardens are as varied and diverse as the plants they contain. Containers can add instant color to any area and can last throughout the summer with just a little care.

The type of container is important. Containers can be made out of pottery, clay, plastic, wire mesh, coconut liners, pails, old boots, whiskey barrels, wagons, and so much more. Plastic is the most common material because it's lightweight and holds up well. Pottery and clay are beautiful and are heavy enough to withstand the wind without falling over. Coco and fiber types are natural looking and elegant.

If you're the type of person who forgets to water, I'd recommend going with a plastic container because they hold water the best. Many people like to put a plastic container inside their beautiful pottery which gives the best of both worlds. All containers need drainage holes to allow the water to escape when it rains. Without drainage holes, the soil can easily get waterlogged which drowns the plant.

The soil is the foundation. Unlike plants in the ground, plants in containers need to get all their food and support from the soil inside the container. To perform the best, plants need a lightweight soil that allows the air to get to the roots. We recommend the Wenke Blend soil because it has the best ratio of peat, perlite and other ingredients that the plants need. Top soil is usually too heavy for container plants.

Fertilizer keeps the plants growing. Slow release fertilizer is perfect for everyone who wants to do it once and then not have to think about it again. Just add the correct amount of Osmocote to the soil when you plant and it will release all summer long. Liquid fertilizer is fast acting and generally lasts for 1-2 weeks. Fertilize only when the potting mix is moist to prevent burning the leaves and roots. Plants absorb the fertilizer best when watered before applying.

The size of the container will also have a dramatic impact on the amount of watering needed. The larger the container, the longer it can go without watering. Containers that are less than 14" in diameter will most likely need to be watered every day. Larger containers also give more room for the foliage to grow and the roots to develop.

Container gardens, similar to your garden flowers, need to be deadheaded in order to perform their best. Remove spent blooms to allow the plant to put energy into developing new blooms. Some plants do best when they are cut back in mid-summer promoting further branching and flower formation.

Watering is critical. Depending on the plants in the container and the amount of rain, container gardens need to be watered almost every day. A general guide is to water when the soil is dry to the touch and light brown.

We have hundreds of hanging baskets, patio pots and various sized containers to get ideas or to purchase. If you'd like to create your own, we're here to help you select flowers that work best in your environment. Use our potting shed to plant your own containers right in the store. We also offer a custom planting service.

Enjoy a beautiful patio pot or basket this summer. It's definitely worth the effort.