Garden Containers
Good Drainage Essential When Container Gardening
Container gardening ideas begin with the vessel. When choosing garden containers consider what is needed to water container plants.
Container gardening ideas would be nowhere without vessels. Those objects come in an unfathomable number of shapes, sizes, colors, materials and characteristics. From new lightweight containers to whiskey keg barrels cut in half, from the modern sleek look to the eclectic cottage style there are containers to fit every need. One rule is consistent, the need for drainage.
Drainage
A hole or holes, a removable or attached tray to catch the water flowing out and, if needed, a way to stop water from backing up into the container are necessary considerations.
Of course, usually where there is a rule there are exceptions. One example is the glass terrarium, an enclosed mini garden. Accomplished gardeners who practice this type of container gardening understand the interaction among plant needs, watering practices and light impacts.
On the opposite side are plants whose container is really just a resting spot. An epiphyte, or air plant, such as an orchid or staghorn fern will thrive on a board or any open place. While drainage may not be an issue for the plant, in this case, dripping water may be a problem for the gardener.
Large Plastic Containers
One of the best new innovations is the large container made of a lightweight fiberglass type material. They can over-winter in freezing temperatures yet are so lightweight it is no longer necessary to seek out a stock-boy, to haul it out the store. Store-bought containers usually have predrilled holes with a stopper in it. The gardener’s biggest issue may be remembering to remove the stopper before planting.
Whiskey Barrel Halves
The whiskey barrel is an old idea. It is constructed of wood stays and iron bands. The heavy weight makes the barrel wind proof but can degrade over time from the elements. Even if a store-bought barrel has drainage, some gardeners like to drill additional holes up the sides, especially if the barrel sits on a soil surface.
Many gardeners think barrels add charm to a rustic cottage garden. The barrels come in large sizes and can make interesting, but small, water gardens when lined with a heavy-duty plastic.
For first time gardens for children, these barrels are terrific. They are large enough to hold several plants, providing a small space for children to call a garden all their own.
Eclectic Container Garden Ideas
A funky, eclectic garden container idea is the coffee can. A nail, hammer, and a good aim made quick work of any drainage concerns. Gardeners may want to use their collection of metal watering cans for favorite plants. The wire basket of the rusty bicycle planted with greenery, leaning against a fence post, or worn out work-boots with hens 'n chicks spilling out the top, standing on back porch steps, are all part of whimsy some gardeners love.
An excellent book called Potted Gardens by Rebecca Cole is a very good resource for the eclectic gardener. It is packed with container ideas and places to seek them out. The book has a clear and concise section, pictures included, on planting in nontraditional containers.
Container gardening starts with the pot. From clay saucer to iron urn there is little that cannot be planted. The gardener’s imagination remains the only limit.
