5 tips for planting a potted garden

If you have a small space, a container garden might be the best option for you to grow your own herbs and vegetables. Here are five tips for planning your potted garden.

Many aromatic herb plants, such as marjoram, fennel and thyme, prefer a sunny exposure. A small number of aromatic plants need shade, but some (mint, lemon balm, chervil, and feverfew) prefer a semi-shaded exposure.

• Thoroughly evaluate the annual sunshine on your balcony, your yard or on your windowsill before choosing your plants.
• You can also start by choosing your plants, then finding them a place that suits them.
• Warm, dry areas such as south-facing balconies, will preferably be lightly shaded.
• Heat that is too intense can harm plants, although usually they enjoy the sunny exposure.
• Air circulation is also an important criterion, as moisture can promote the appearance of fungal diseases.
• In windy locations, make sure that your pots/containers are not likely to be knocked over; if necessary, an arbour can provide protection.

The quality of the soil or potting soil used plays a vital role in the success of aromatic plants.

• The potting soil for tray plants are preferred over garden soil because it is specifically designed for this type of cultivation. Its retention and drainage capacity is optimal.
• In your garden centre, you will find different types of potting soil specifically designed for certain types of pots/containers, such as those for hanging plants.
• The best products contain water retainers, which slow the drying of the substrate and vermiculite (he drying reduces the nutrient level), or even slow-release fertilizer, which progressively feeds the roots.

While most aromatic plants like frequent watering, they need their substrate to be able to dry between waterings, so the roots are not constantly in the water.

A good substrate should be drained, and the bottom of the pot or container must be drilled in order to facilitate the removal of excess water.

• Use a colourful watering can that is easy to find, fill and carry.
• Do not leave it in the sun so that it lasts longer.

The shelves of garden centres are full of all kinds of fertilizers.

• A good "universal" fertilizer will suit most aromatic plants and will provide all of the nutrients needed to develop the roots, leaves and flowers, and to help them remain healthy and vigourous.
• Soluble fertilizers are perfect for potted plants and seedlings, which require regular inputs of fertilizer. Always follow the directions on the packaging.
• If you notice a white deposit on the outside of the pot/container, it is fertilizer or limestone residue due to the water used to water the plant, and cleaning it will take care of it.
• Algae-based liquid products are excellent tonics. Add them to the water used for watering and apply them during transplantation to minimize the effects of a possible shock.

Every year, revitalize your garden pots/containers by repotting your medicinal and aromatic herbs or by repotting them.

• Replace the annuals.
• Carefully remove the perennials from their pot/container and replace the potting soil (the used potting soil can be reused in the garden).
• Prune the roots if they are forming a tight mass and cut the old stems to stimulate the growth of new shoots.
• Put the plant in a pot/container with potting soil, pressing down slightly.
• Finally, water abundantly.

When potting plants, be sure not to place the pots just anywhere. To effectively garden in pots/containers, you must ask the right questions, but especially, you must find the adequate answers.

Ask yourself about the location, the quality of the soil, the frequency of watering, the fertilizers and the frequency with which your plant will require being repotted to be sure you'll have a beautiful garden for years to come.