Containers cut work in garden with limited space
(NC)-Plant and flower containers can be as simple, or as decorative
and colourful as you want to make them. Or, you can buy eye-catching,
pre-made containers for colour on the go! To inspire your own creativity,
take a look online at www.fernlea.com. There, you will find a number
of "container planting recipes" to assist you with combinations
of flowers and plants for your windowsill, the apartment balcony,
or to make a statement at your home's front door.
There are a few steps to consider, says Fernlea, when creating and
planting your own container:
1. Location - consider how much sun your container will get and then
choose your plants according to the recommended sun or shade requirements.
2. Container - when selecting a container, consider one with drainage
holes in the bottom. And, when thinking of the size of container,
remember the smaller ones will dry out faster so you may need to water
more often.
3. 'Soiless Soil' - filling your container with 'soiless media' would
contain peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This recipe is the key
to providing your container with proper drainage but also providing
water holding capacity. You should fill your pot up to 2 inches from
its top.
4. Fertilizer - There are two choices, either a slow-release type,
or a water-soluble one. The slow-release fertilizer should be incorporated
into the soil prior to planting and lasts about three to four months.
The water-soluble fertilizer is added on a weekly or bi-weekly basis
according to package instructions.
5. Plant - When starting to plant your container, start with the
center and work outwards. The planting rule of thumb is to dig a hole
a bit larger than the plant's original container. Carefully remove
plant from its container by tipping it upside down. Loosen roots gently
to encourage growth in the new container. Once in hole, fill with
soil and gently press down. Then, when all plants are in, you may
want to add a bit more soil.
Colourful containers are a sure sign of spring, and they make a great
gift for family and friends, and for you.
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