Image Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/28538827@N05/5183070319/in/pool-hobbyfarm
You don’t need to live on a farm to start a vegetable garden. In fact, you don’t really need a yard at all! If you live in an apartment where a veggie patch just isn’t going to work, don’t despair- you can grow fresh, delicious potted vegetables, fruits and herbs right on your balcony, deck or even indoors.
Research
Container gardening is easier than you may think, it just takes some careful planning, the right supplies and plants and then a little bit of TLC. Do your homework on the varieties of vegetables and herbs you would like to grow. Obviously, not all plants are created equal–when it comes to size and growth patterns. Tomatoes and bell peppers grow large while cucumbers are climbers that need a trellis. Herbs are easy, and can be maintained in smaller pots. Also, decide how many of each you want to grow. If you are attempting to provide yourself with fresh, organic produce on the regular, take into account which vegetables/fruits grow best via season for largest yield.
Here is a nice little guide to different vegetable plants and the types of pots that suit them the best.
Supplies
So you’ve picked out your favorite plant varieties and are ready to head to the nursery…first, know what supplies are needed for growing an indoor garden. You’ve got the pots down pat: opt for basic clay because they are cheap, look better, are sturdier, and drain well. Although, plastic pots do retain moisture better. You will also need to obtain a good soil mix suited for the type of plants you will be growing, gravel and of course, seeds or transplants.
Plant Away
Now we’re ready to get digging. Here’s the good news when it comes to container plants: No weeding and minimal pests woo hoo! Ok, Now the bad news: because you are planting in containers and growing indoors, proper drainage and sun absorption are crucial and must be tended to regularly. Most vegetable and herbs need at least five hours of full sun a day, so scout out areas on your patio or windows in your home that get hit with some strong rays. Usually plants will need to be watered once or twice daily depending on how much sunlight they receive. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil–if it dries out quickly, that’s the time to keep it moist. When it comes to drainage always choose pots with holes in the bottom and add an inch of gravel before soil to improve drainage.
Try to feed your little indoor garden at least twice a month with liquid fertilizer or treat your green babies to a rich, nutrient packed compost. Now just sit back, relax and watch those fresh fruits and veggies grow!
