Vegetable Container Gardening: Growing Veggies In the City
Nowadays, most people are aware of the benfits of growing their own vegetables, but how will you do this if you do not have enough space? What if you are living in a city? Is it even possible? Many people think that the only way to have a vegetable garden is if you have a large land area or backyard. But there is a way. You can create a mini vegetable garden in a container.
When you start out with vegetable container gardening you may be surpirsed to find out that it’s very similar to the usual way of gardening. First, you will need to decide how much area you can provide. By applying the succession and companion methods of planting, you will be surprised how far your plants will grow. Just a small area, within the size of a 3 feet decorative pot, could grow a lot of plants.
You can use a variety of containers including old cookie jars, a simple plastic tray or store bought pots. Anything will do, whatever the size as long as it is not metal. Once you have your container you are ready to choose the growing media. One way of increasing the success you have in raising your own plants is to choose the right soil. Be very particular about the consistency. The soil must be light in weight but also be able to hold up the plants you choose to grow. It also depends on the situation. You may choose a soil-less growing medium or a more traditional option like potting compost in a hanging pot.
Consider where the ideal location will be. It might be on a deck or patio or hanging from your porch. Depending on where it is the hardiness of your selected container is a consideration. A plastic container is not as hardy as treated wood. Consider, as well, the type of plants that you want to raise. Do they require a heavy container or will a light weight one suffice? The thickness, the height or how large you want your plant is likely to grow will all have a bearing on your choice.
A soil-less growing media might be ideal because it is very light in weight and has good drainage but the disadvantage is it doesn’t contain many nutrients. This need not be a problem, however, since you can add plant food as needed. Just choose something suitable for the type of vegetables you are growing.
Having a vegetable container garden for your own home allows you to produce your own source of nutritious food. You will know the food produced is healthy and there is no need to spend a lot of money or own a big space. So, what are you waiting for? Gather all your family members and start to plan and make your own mini veggie farm at home. And while you’re at it consider turning one of your pots into a culinary herb garden to complete your home-grown theme.