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GARDENING WITH CONTAINERS
What is container
gardening?
A container is anything that holds
soil & is large enough to support the growth of a plant.
Using containers for growing plants is
the easiest way to start a garden. In particular, containers are an
excellent way to garden because they bring the soil and plants to within easy
reach. Additionally containers are valuable wherever ground level garden
beds are not feasible (e.g. flats with balconies, indoors, or where the
soil quality is poor).
Containers are essentially small
raised garden beds. They may be small, or very large and heavy, wide &
deep enough to support the growth of a small tree. Several containers of
different heights can be pleasingly clustered together. Alternatively, rows
of containers can give your garden a defined geometric look. Large
containers help to create clearly define garden areas, and are useful for
gardeners who are visually impaired.
Containers come in a huge variety of
materials, colours, sizes, textures. Items made for other purposes can be
re-invented as containers, provided that drainage holes are made in the
base.
Factors to consider
when choosing containers
Accessibility: Ensure your containers are accessible.
Containers should be at a height that can be easily reached so that the
gardener does not have to strain to tend the plants. The width of a
container should be such that it can be reached from any side. Ensure the containers are stable &
heavy enough not to tip over if bumped, or in wind, or if leaned upon for
support.
Ground surfaces:
Ensure that your garden
provides safe access to containers. Ground floor materials should be
non-slip, non-reflective, level or less than 1/20 slope. Ensure there is
sufficient space between containers & to allow manoeuvrability e.g.
wheelchair turning space.
Location: Consider positioning your containers
so that they can be viewed from indoors. Locate containers near seating so
that you can rest & enjoy your container plants.
Table Planters
Another type of container is the table
planter. This consists of a shallow soil-filled tray supported on legs. The
advantage of the table planter is that it provides around 300mm+ clearance
for gardeners using wheelchairs. The table height can be customised. The
soil depth should be a minimum of 120 mm.
Select plants suitable for the soil
depth and sun/shade conditions. Plants that prefer welldrained
soil, tolerating low soil moisture are an excellent choice. Trailing plants
look wonderful cascading over the edge of the planter. Since the shallow
container dries out quickly in full sun, mulch the soil and add water
crystals to the soil to minimise dehydration. Frequent watering,
or a drip watering system is required. The width of the table should not
exceed what can be reached. For a free standing table accessible on both
sides, no wider than about 1200mm. If the table is accessible on one side
only, then its width should not exceed around 600mm.
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