Growing plants in containers is an enjoyable option for many gardeners. It’s an effective, space saving and creative way to brighten up any area. Plant container gardening provides a convenient and elegant solution, as well as a safe space, to keep beloved plants.

Using containers or pots allows you to enjoy gardening even if you may not be blessed with much (if any) outdoor space. Flats, communal housing or the smallest of homes can all accommodate lovely displays of potted plants. With containers you’re able to place your plants anywhere, provided they are in a good sun spot. Even if you have a large garden potted plants are a great way to brighten up patios or seating areas.

What is plant container gardening?

As mentioned earlier, container gardening is basically using pots or containers to grow your greenery instead of planting in the ground. Using pots allows you to create a wonderful floral display anywhere.

Containers can house flowering plants, shrubs, herbs even fruit,ornamental and nut trees. Anyone, including the most novice of gardeners, can enjoy plant container gardening. You’ll achieve amazing and satisfying results in even the most restricted of spaces. However, life in containers can be tough for some plants. It’s a good idea to do some research on the plants you intend to use before you begin potting.

Why is plant container gardening so popular?

Flexibility is one of the key benefits of container gardening. It allows anyone to indulge in their hobby, even if space is slightly lacking. Whether you live in a high-rise flat with just a small balcony area, or a home with a large garden, growing plants in pots is something everyone can enjoy.

There are many different types of containers that come in a variety of colours, materials and styles. Whether you prefer the weathered and aged look, traditional terracotta pots or contemporary clean lines you’ll easily find the pots you want. And if budget is an issue there are plenty of great value plastic containers which look wonderful when planted up. You really do have total control of colour schemes and how you want to display your plants.

Containers offer an easy alternative to planting in the ground. One overlooked benefit is that if you move home you can easily pick up and take your much-loved plants with you.

Housing “pickier” plants in containers is a great way to keep them protected from harsher weather conditions. When the weather gets a bit too warm or stormy, you can easily move your plant to a more sheltered position.

Containers can also provide temporary housing for plants. For example, when plants are still in their fragile sapling stages and need a secure environment in order to flourish. Other gardeners like to plant large groups of flowers or herbs together in one large container in order to save on watering tasks or to create an impressive display.

Is plant container gardening easy to do?

Setting up your container is pretty easy. All you’ll need is a pot or planter, drainage stones and compost. Of course, you’ll need a plant too. It’s advisable to have a container that has enough room to comfortably house your chosen plant, plus extra growing room. Having a pot with extra space will allow the roots to grow and develop healthily.

It’s important to have a good drainage system for your container. Sometimes we can accidentally over water our plants and this can lead to stagnant water collecting at the bottom of the pot. With some species of plants, this can cause fungi and bacteria to form and damage the plant. 

By drilling holes into the bottom of your container and adding suitable pebbles or stones to the bottom you’ll create a reliable drainage system. This will ensure your plants don’t become swamped with water. Of course, if you’re planning on keeping your container inside, you’ll want to rest it on top of a tray in order to catch any excess water.

How to grow plants and trees in containers

As mentioned previously, it’s vital to have a container that is large enough to comfortably house the roots of your chosen plant. You’ll need to re-pot your plants every few years, depending on your plant species and rate of growth. This ensures that the plant has enough space to stay healthy and develop further.

Plants such as herbs and flower bearing varieties do well in most types of pot, provided it has access to sunlight and water. Ensure your container has enough drainage holes for the number of plants you place in each pot. For example, a pot with several plants may need more drainage holes than a pot with just one. 

Having the correct amount of soil will also help to keep your plants healthy and happy. It’s recommended you keep a gap of about 2.5cm (1in) between the soil level and the top of the container. This will allow the water to soak in more effectively without clogging the soil or overflowing the rim.

Planting trees in containers is just as simple. You’ll need to make sure the container you are using is large enough to house the rootball of your tree. 

Don’t be tempted to choose the largest pot you can find for a small tree; especially if you have a small garden. Trees in containers can dry out faster than those planted in the ground and will need regular watering. In open gardens, trees in containers will need protecting during winter. This is because the roots growing near the edges are vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Protect your tree by covering container with bubble wrap or hessian, held securely in place with twine or tie-wraps.

Choosing your container plants

Plant container gardening is a wonderful way to enjoy your hobby. Whether you live in a mansion or a maisonette you’ll have space for potted plants and even ornamental trees in containers. And most plants can be successfully grown in pots. The container gardener has a huge variety of plants and scrubs to choose from. Click here to see the full selection of plants we have just waiting to be picked for you fresh from our nursery.