How to Grow Veggies and Herbs in Containers

How to Grow Veggies and Herbs in Containers

Growing plants in containers is a great way to grow your own herbs and veggies where space is limited. From tomatoes to potatoes and virtually everything in between, container gardening is as fun as it is easy and the results are often surprising. A single tomato plant grown in a 5-gallon bucket can yield between 20-30 lbs of tomatoes if done correctly.The trick is to remember that plants grown in containers have very different nutritional and watering needs than plants grown in the ground. For starters, choosing the right container is important to the success of your harvest. Plants that grow more than 10” tall or plants whose root base is extensive should not be planted in containers less than 5 gallons. Basil, sage, chamomile, tomatoes and green beans are among those who need a large container. Containers for these plants should have the holes drilled on the side of the container as opposed to the bottom to allow proper drainage and from keeping taproots from burrowing beneath the container. Root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes can be successfully grown in large trash barrels or 55 gallon drums. The same rule for drilling holes applies to these as well. Thick (5 mil or higher) black plastic trash bags are a great alternative for growing plants that love heat like peppers, simply fill the bag with soil, tie shut and lay flat. Cut a small hole on top with a sharp knife and insert your plant. It's that simple! You can use the bags successfully for other plants as well, especially if you want to harden them off in the spring. As the season heats up, simply paint the bags white to deflect harsh sunlight and keep the roots cooler.

When choosing soil for your plants, be sure to check for peat moss and vermiculite content. These two ingredients will ensure proper drainage and help keep moisture locked in. A good soil to try for potted plants is Promix®. The best soil you can use however, is a 50/50 mix of potting soil and compost. The compost will add additional moisture and nutrients your plants will need to stay healthy. To help with drainage, cover the bottom of your pot with ¾ inch of playground sand before adding soil. Don't be afraid to mix a small amount in with your soil too, especially for plants like Lavender and Aloe.

Soil in containers tends to dry out a lot more quickly than the soil in the ground. In hot, dry weather, plants may need to be watered up to twice a day to keep them from wilting. It's always best to check your soil early in the morning. If it's not moist up to the first knuckle on your index finger, you'll need to water your plant so that it doesn't dry out during the day. Check your plants again in the late evening to make sure they haven't dried out too much during the day. If the soil is still moist to the first knuckle, hold off until morning to water. Never water your plants during mid-day, especially if the weather is hot. Even small droplets of water can severely burn your leaves and the sudden moisture can send your plant into shock.

Though most good potting soils contain nutrients to help your plants grow well, over time, those nutrients leach from the soil and must be replaced to keep your plants growing well. Comfrey Tea and worm poop are two completely organic and highly effective fertilizers your plants will love! Comfrey tea is especially good for herbs as it is high in nitrates. Both comfrey tea and worm poop can be added 1-2 times per month as needed. Cow manure is another really good organic fertilizer. It's best to add this to the soil a month or so PRIOR to planting.