Benefits of growing plants

Growing plants in pots and containers is a great delight and there's a lot of flexibility in handling them. Containers provide a basic platform in garden locations without soil such as patios, paved courtyards, and roof areas. They may offer the only means of gardening for individuals living in flats or apartments with limited space. Most importantly, containers can sustain a range of plants that may struggle or fail in local soil and conditions. For example, in climates like winter where a lime or curry leaf struggles to live, these can be grown successfully in containers, so long as they are located in shade and protected against extreme cold and frost.

A collection of pots can be chosen to exhibit a variety of plants and be arranged according to mood or situation. Plants can be relocated according to contrasting colour, height, and shape. Those which have started flowering can be moved to a more prominent location.

Plants housed in containers need an organic potting mixture since they will not usually obtain enough nutrients from ordinary garden soil. In addition to plant nutrients, organic mixtures provide water and air for the roots.

Some pots live adequately in smaller pots while most varieties with longer roots require larger and deeper vessels. All plant containers require holes in their base to facilitate drainage. It is good to place a shallow layer of gravel on the base of containers before filling them with potting mix. This ensures an adequate drainage that prevents the mix becoming waterlogged and subsequently drowning the roots. In warm, dry conditions, potted plants usually require a regular watering system or fairly constant attention. In cooler weather, the main risk is over watering and eventually drowning the roots.

Most potted plants will benefit from a location that receives plenty of sunlight and a good circulation of fresh air. During the peak of summer, try to secure some shade relief for sensitive plants. Particularly in the tropics and sub-tropical regions try to be alert for any weather forecasts of severe rain, hail, or wind. In these situations, smaller containers can be carried indoors, while any that are too large or heavy need to be secured and protected as much as possible.

Recycling old unused materials for gardening is also a great possibility. Buckets, a watering can, a hollow tree stump, toilet bowls, a spare tyre, even a bathtub or ironing board and more creative things can be used for exhibiting plants or help in efficient gardening.