Spring Planting: Container Growing Tips

It's that time again!

The Growing Good Health team comprised of RALI Board Members, DCHI staff members and community volunteers, has been busy preparing for our Spring 2018 Plant/Seed giveaway.  Plant distribution will be held in all three cities this season; this is the first time we have tried this approach and look forward to seeing you all. 

Rather you are a first time gardener or seasoned veteran in the gardening world, here are some tips for container growing:

Tip #1 - Pick out containers that are big enough for both the TOPS and ROOTS of your plants!  

Containers that are too small won't hold enough water and may topple over if the tops of the plants are heavier than the roots and the soil!  You want to be sure there are plenty of drainage holes in the pots too - you don't want the roots of your plants sitting in water.

Tip #2 - Choose soil that is made specifically for growing in containers and that it's fresh and not moldy, soggy or old.

Don't use regular garden soil or top soil as it can hold too much or too little water around the roots of your plants, or get too compacted for the roots to grow well.

Tip #3 - Place your containers in the right amount of SUN for your plants to bloom and grow happily.

Most vegetable plants need at least 6 to 8 hours of sun every day!    

Tip #4 - Plan ahead so you can easily water!

Even with the right sized pots and the right kind of soil, vegetable plants need a lot of water to grow and produce well.  Make sure you can get your water hose to your plants easily and often. 

Once the heat of the summer hits, you may need to water your containers twice a day or more!  Check the soil by placing your finger directly into the soil.  If you don't feel moisture in the soil by the time you get to your knuckle, it's time to water the plants! 

Water each container at the top of the soil (water the pot, not the foliage) until water runs out the drainage holes in the bottom of your container.  

Tip #5 - Fertilize!

Even soils that come with fertilizer in them don't have enough fertilizer to last all season long.  Get a good quality, preferably organic, fertilizer that is made specifically for vegetables and follow the instructions on the package.  

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The above tips and more great information can be found in our most recent newsletter.
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