Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program 2021

Container Gardening 101

Christine Jackson, Research and Extension Assistant

Do you want to grow your own produce but have limited space outside, poor, contaminated soil, or limited mobility? An easy solution is container gardening. Containers can go on an inside window sill, a sunny spot on your counter or on a patio or balcony outside. There are many options for growing at home.

Step 1: Decide what you would like to grow.

This is a critical step because it will determine your soil type, fertilizer and sun requirements, temperature, and water needs. To help make this decision, consider what you enjoy cooking with and eating frequently. Options of plant types include vegetables, herbs, and micro greens. Another factor that will determine what you will grow is how much space you have available.

Step 2: Choose the proper container.

How big will the plants get? This will determine how big of a container you will need and how many plants will fit in each container. What you decide to grow will affect your choice of container, based on the amount of space the plants need to grow. Both the depth and width of the container are important things to consider. Some plants have fiberous root systems, while others have tap roots, which will affect how much space each plant will need. For example, cabbage has shallow fibrous roots and does not need as much soil space to grow compared to squash, which has a deep tap root.

which will affect how much space each plant will need. For example, cabbage has shallow fibrous roots and does not need as much soil space to grow compared to squash, which has a deep tap root.

• Pick a container that has holes or that you can easily make some holes in.
• Consider the material of the container you choose. There are many options for container types, including: terra cotta, plastic, poly-stone, wood, and even metal (make sure they are lead free). Different materials will have different costs, and some can affect the growing

• plants. Terra cotta pots, for example, tend to lose moisture quickly, while black plastic pots absorb heat, which may damage the plant's roots.

• You may want to consider additional container features. For example, hanging baskets are great for vining plants like strawberries. Choose a container with a water reservoir and reduce time spent watering. Or choose a container with wheels to help with mobility.
• Don't be afraid to get creative. Take a few objects you may have laying around in the garage to repurpose into containers. Use an old cooler, those extra Easter baskets, or even the old desk that is just collecting dust in the attic—just be sure to clean it well before planting. Lots of great ideas can be found on the internet.