Michele K. Koskinen
Growing vegetables and herbs in containers takes a little extra effort but can be as successful as in a regular garden. There are many mistakes and pitfalls to container gardening but most are easy to avoid if you remember a few easy tips.
Growing vegetables and herbs in containers takes a little extra effort but can be as successful as in a regular garden. There are many mistakes and pitfalls to container gardening but most are easy to avoid if you remember a few easy tips.
1. Use
seedlings available at most markets in the spring and forget starting seeds
for a small garden. (Unless you want to expend the energy for a larger garden)
2. Pick
something easy to grow and the herbs you will use the most in cooking. Basil
is an excellent starter as it often gives clues about watering and is by far the most
popular herb to pair with a multitude of summer foods. Mint, a
perennial, is invasive but works well in containers. There are many
varieties such as peppermint, spearmint, chocolate, and more. Oregano, Greek
as well as Italian and thyme can be perennials in our zone 7. Try lemon
thyme for a refreshing difference and french
thyme. And finally rosemary, it
would be the last herb to try in your first herb garden.
3. Choose the
right container large enough for the herbs selected. Basils can grow upto 2
feet or more and requires a fairly large pot There are small globe basils ideal
for small pots, however, the popular Sweet and Genovese basil needs room to
grow. Parsley grows to about 18" and pairs well with basil. Mint, oregano
and thyme are low growing and spread. Planting mint in it's own pot is much
easier and less stressful as it is can take over the pot. Previous blog on mintRosemary can become large and does well planted with oregano and thyme.
4. Provide a
good soilless mix and fertilizer for your plants. Most soilless mixes have no nutrients so everything
must be provided. Today you can buy a potting mix with fertilizer already in the mix
or you can use a long term or slow release fertilizer, compost or other
amendments before planting. Liquid fertilizer can also be used if that is your
preference.
5. Water
Water Water. Containers require watering on a constant basis, sometimes
everyday depending on the size of your pot. A plastic tub or container is best as clay pots
allow the moisture to evaporate more quickly. Also know the watering needs of each
plant. Basil and parsley like to be well watered, oregano, thyme and rosemary
not so much. To foolproof your containers success plant varieties with
like watering conditions together .
5. Prune,
pinch and keep pinching. The more you take the better for your plant to
continue producing the leaves for your culinary delight. Leaves should be
pinched routinely to allow the plant to grow without becoming a tall stalky or
spindly plant that is putting out flowers and seeds. When this happens, the
plant will begin to shut down as it thinks it is time to quit producing
foliage. Basil, parsley and mint benefit from routine harvesting by becoming
fuller.
6. Expand your horizons. Plant
edible flowers for beauty and adventure. Flowers such as nasturtiums, pansies
and marigolds are edible as well as interesting on your plate.
7. As you become more comfortable with your growing expertise, add more herbs
you use on a regular basis.
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