Simple Strategies for Planting in Elevated Garden Containers & Pots
For those looking to start a garden or enhance their existing one, consider the convenience and productivity of raised beds and planters. A variety of options are now available for purchase, including Natural Cedar L-Shaped Raised Garden Beds, the VegTrug Raised Garden Planter made of natural wood, and the Farmstead Raised Garden Bed.
To make the most of your raised garden beds and planters, focus on planting simple, productive crops. Climbing crops like snap peas, pole beans, and cucumbers, when grown with trellises, save space and make harvesting easier. Herbs like parsley can be planted in the corners of beds to add variety and fill out spaces nicely.
Soil and bed preparation are crucial for a successful garden. Use a mix of high-quality soil and compost to fill beds, ensuring nutrient-richness for healthy plants. The top 6 inches should ideally be compost, with soil underneath. For deep beds, fill the bottom half with woody organic matter (twigs, bark) using the hugelkulture method to improve water retention and save soil. Proper drainage is also essential; drill holes in containers or beds like wine barrels and raised troughs, or add a layer of rocks at the bottom before soil for better drainage.
Raised bed construction can be as simple or creative as you'd like. Wooden beds made from rough-cut hemlock are durable and affordable. For a unique touch, consider converting creative containers like wine barrels or vintage suitcases into raised beds with drainage holes and elevated slightly on bricks for airflow. PVC pipe frames can create lightweight, affordable raised beds, and can incorporate trellises or shade covers for climbing plants.
Pest management is an important aspect of gardening. Cover raised beds with simple lattice structures to protect from deer, rabbits, and groundhogs. Line bottoms of beds with hardware cloth to deter burrowing critters.
When it comes to easy planting suggestions, start with easy-to-grow vegetables such as lettuce, radishes, carrots, and herbs which do well in raised beds and planters. Use companion planting by mixing herbs or flowers with vegetables to improve growth and deter pests.
For efficient composting, the Worm Factory 360 Composter and the Jora JK270 Composter, with a volume of 9.5 cubic feet, are available for purchase. A Stainless Steel Compost Keeper and a Premium Drinking Water Safe Garden Hose, Slim 7/16", are also available. To prevent weed growth and nourish your soil, Corn Gluten Organic Fertilizer in an 8-0-0 formula and weighing 40 lbs is available.
With these tips and products, you're well on your way to a thriving, easy-to-manage garden. Happy gardening!
Implementing raised beds and planters in your home-and-garden lifestyle can enhance your gardening experience significantly. To maximize productivity, consider planting climbing crops like snap peas, pole beans, and cucumbers, or herbs such as parsley in the corners to add variety and fill out spaces effectively.
