Container Gardening for Gypsies

It is possible if you know how to time the harvest of certain plants for those of you that like to camp in one place for the warmer season. If you are a part time camper like myself, these tactics work for your yard or deck as well. Containers let you enjoy plants in areas where you normally wouldn’t be able to PLANT a garden. I am wondering if any one has tried this already and whether it was successful for you.Now first, you will need to select your containers. There are so many different types, it really is about personal preference. You can use hanging wire baskets which are pretty. You can build raised boxes, use old barrels, or even tin pails. Clay pots are not recommended because they dry out more quickly and require frequent watering. Dark colored containers will absorb heat and could possibly damage plant roots, so if you use those you may want to consider painting them a lighter color. Drainage is another factor. Be sure the container has holes in the bottom to drain excess water.Some sites I found that had really nice containers:Earthbox.com Agardenpatch. Cleanairgardening.com Ok, so now you have your container. You have to fill it with something! A little research is good because some plants like different soil types. Your local home and garden specialist should be able to make recommendations for you to help you be as successful as possible. Any of us that are trying this obviously want to reap the fruits of our efforts!Now since we are discussing the issue under the assumption that this will be a short term project, you probably don’t want to start out with seeds. You will want to buy seedlings from the home and garden store. Consider growing dwarf or determinate varieties of vegetables because they only grow to a certain height and width. Some examples of these are “Tom Thumb” peas, mini corn, “Silver Fir” tomatoes, and “Baby Bubba” okra. There are short season plants you should ask about. For example- Yukon Gold or Onaway potatoes take 70-90 days to mature. Tomatoes do really well in containers. You can grow cucumbers, eggplant, green beans, leaf lettuce, green onions, radishes, squash and many other varieties.Be on the lookout for plants labeled bush, compact, and space saver.Get your containers, get your dirt, now go out and grow something good to eat.