Hassle Free Container Gardening

Many people who live in apartments or condos forego the pleasures of gardening because they think they don't have the room. Container gardening is an easy and efficient way to enjoy many of the same benefits as traditional gardening and anyone can do it regardless of where you live. Fill a pot, basket - even an old tire with colorful flowers for a foolproof, hassle free garden.  All you need is a little TLC and a bit of guidance and you'll have a container garden that all of your friends and family will envy.

First of all, become familier with the different types of containers so that you choose one to best fit your needs. Containers can be anything - traditional ones such as clay pots or wooden window boxes to the not-so-traditional, like old tires, baskets and wheelbarrows. I once planted flowers in one of my nephews old tennis shoes!  The main thing to remember is that all containers must have good drainage. Regardless of the type, they must have at least one drainage hole. Then it is best to put some kind of "feet" under the container (bricks or a terra cotta saucer.) This is so the water can drain easily out of the bottom. It also helps to cover the hole inside the pot with a bit of broken pottery to facilitate steady drainage. Clay pots are classic, but they're very pourous, so water evaporates quickly in the heat. Plastic containers are lightweight and easy to move around. Wood and ceramic are also good choices. Let your pots make a statement, much as you would a new piece of furniture for your home. Remember - a cast iron urn says "formal" while a wooden barrel says "rustic."