A shady spot, a sunny spot, or one with a combination of both can be a place that brings color to the surrounding environment from the large deck to the tiny balcony.
Planning the Garden
Before planting or even buying the containers for the area, observe the amount of time the sun shines, and if at any time throughout the day shading takes place. Flowers are categorized in garden centers as shade and/or sun plants. Some plants can only take the morning sun, some need 6-8 hours of minimal sun, and others cannot tolerate sun at all.
Once the sun and shade factors have been established, then consider what size of containers the area needs and how many based on the available budget. Containers come in all sizes and prices can range from just a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. For the first-time gardener, starting small may not be as intimidating, and the investment can be spread out over several years rather than trying to establish a huge garden in one growing season.
Choosing the Flowers
Garden centers provide the optimal place to shop for flowers. These specialty stores often have professionals employed to take care of plants and help customers. If this is the first time for buying flowers, then ask for help in choosing the best plants for the planned garden.
Many times small start-up containers are planted and established at the centers. These can be bought, and then transferred into larger containers that will give them room to grow and expand. These are a good idea for the inexperienced grower, since plants have been chosen for these containers that have similar water and sun needs.
If choosing the plants to combine into the container, read the care instructions carefully for each plant. Combine plants that mound with plants that climb and cascade. Plant the mounding plants in the middle with the climbing plants at the back, and the cascading plants along the sides. Consult the instructions regarding what type of support the climbing plant needs. All of the plants in one container should require the same amount of water and sun.
It is also acceptable to plant just one type of plant in the container if simplicity is desired. These make beautiful additions to the patio or balcony, as well.
Maintaining the Container
If a container is on a balcony, then these plants will probably not have the advantage of rain water, so continual attention to watering will need to be made regularly. During the hot summer months, most containers have to be watered daily or at least every other day.
Sometimes squirrels, chipmunks, or other animals will dig in the soil and can disrupt the roots or even remove the flowers from the stems for food. Each person will have to decide whether or not to allow the natural course or to attempt to deter the animals. See the additional resources below for humane ideas of how to keep your containers free from animal disruption.
Containers need regular minimal attention for watering, repairing soil from animals, pulling stray weeds, but usually do not need pruning. These containers provide a bit of color and a sense of accomplishment as the plants grow and mature from spring to fall.
Additional Resources
Garden Guides - Keeping Squirrels and Chipmunks at Bay
Paula Wilder - Paula is a freelance writer and speaker. She also teaches developmental reading and English at Guilford Technical Community College. She ...
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