Amendment for bottom watering seedlings8/31/2023 ![]() ![]() One of the best organic matter amendments to use is ground pine bark having a quarter- to 3/8-inch particle size. Numerous formulas are effective, but a mixture of 50 percent soil and 50 percent organic matter works well. Blend sandy or clay loams with organic matter to improve the necessary drainage characteristics. Good field soils can be used for this purpose. Those who plan to grow a considerable number of container plants may prefer to prepare their own potting mixture. Commercial mixtures are recommended for gardeners who require only a few cubic feet for container plant needs. The better commercial mixes are also fortified with fertilizer and lime as well as a wetting agent. The latter two components are used to improve drainage and aeration. These are referred to as “soilless mixtures” because they do not contain soil but rather various combinations of vermiculite and peat moss as well as either perlite or ground pine bark. Soil MixturesĬommercial potting mixtures are ideal for container plants. Under these circumstances, plants fail to grow properly or even die. Under conditions of excess moisture and poor aeration, roots become stressed and are easily invaded by root rotting fungi. Poorly drained potting mixture can lead to root problems. This is compensated for by providing a more porous planting mixture. Soils in containers have poorer drainage characteristics due to the shallow depth and reduced capillary pull. Field soils drain by capillary action, which pulls excess moisture downward. Growing plants in containers differs from growing plants in the ground. Container plants are ideal for decks, patios or balconies. You can simply move seasonal plants in and out of the scene to add beauty to a treasured area. You can display spring bulbs, summer annuals or fall blooming biennials almost immediately as they come into season. They are the accessories that make the scene comfortable and complete.įlexibility and mobility are other important aspects of container gardening. ![]() Container plants provide the right touch needed for contrast and interest in these spaces. This form of gardening has been especially rewarding for those who have only a patio, deck or balcony on which to grow plants. The use of unusual plants in unusual pots and containers provides interest and color to surroundings that were once considered drab and stereotyped. Planting in containers has also provided a contemporary aspect to gardening. It has expanded the horizons of gardening for homeowners and often has provided the only way to garden for apartment and condominium dwellers. Gardening in containers is a fascinating way of growing plants. Recommended Plants for Container Gardening.Revised by Bodie Pennisi, Extension Horticulturist ![]()
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