Calming Container Gardening
Container gardening is available to anyone who wants to do it. Everyone doing so must be aware that taking on container gardening is a bit like having a cat. The reasons are the pleasure of its making, and the reduction of stress. Like a cat, it demands ongoing attention with its “look at me” demands.
Deciding the containers and the plants is half the fun. Everyone has their own taste so all container gardens are always completely original. Terracotta pots are very popular and come in all shapes and sizes,from the very large “Ali baba” type pots to the small ones picked up for a song at the local supermarket. The terracotta pots age beautiful when left to the elements, care taken if frosts are severe in your area as some may not handle the cold.
Your choice of plants is a very personal one and you will have to love it. Container plants can be demanding in that they require watering regularly. They all have their own preferences. Growing bamboo in a large pot is easy, when watered regularly. Herbs especially are happy growing in pots. A cook will want the special herbs they use on hand and fresh. Container grown herbs particularly the mint range in different pots gives the cook a range of plants and scents. The mints do need their own pots, as they will soon take over the available soil if planted with other plants. Mints available depending on where you live are pineapple, peppermint, and spearmint. Chewing peppermint is said hide the smell of garlic on ones breath.
The containers are on show all the time whether on a balcony or in a living room. Deadheading the flowers when finished encourages new growth and flowers. Remove old and yellowing leaves. Your pet will need fertilizer if it is a permanent plant, such as miniature fruit trees, junipers, and hebes. A slow release fertilizer is better for pot or container plants as the included fertilizer in the original potting mix does not last.
The plants are also prone to bugs and diseases just as any garden plant. Like the cat, the constant attention picks up any changes in the health of the plant and remedial action activated. If you have a cat, they sometimes like to use the pot plants as a litter tray! There is not a lot you can do in that case, but sprinkle mothballs on top of the potting mix. This does deter the felines, as they do not like the smell!
