Angela S. Judd has just given me – and you – the great gift of useful information about How to Grow Your Own Food in an Illustrated Beginner’s Guide to Container Gardening. (Adams media $20.) This bright and colorful book begins with basic information about growing food in containers, the principles and benefits for success.
Most of us will know that it is important to consider the amount of adequate light and temperature plants need. Information about the special soil for containers, the kinds of fertilizer, the way to water properly, learning that plants and their roots need air to grow are just four of the principles that will make plants grow successfully in containers.
I am just beginning to learn about growing vegetables in containers. I no longer have sufficient usable soil in my garden – it’s mostly a swamp. I need to grow some vegetables and herbs in pots. I learned last year that it is vital to use potting soil with amendments like compost and vermiculite, and other mixtures. My first try was just using regular soil, but that was not successful. There is also good advice about choosing plants that grow vertically, and dwarf , or bush varieties.
There are helpful suggestions about the tools and materials that will be needed for growing in pots.
Different plants will need different size pots, whether they are terracotta, metal, resin, fabric or other materials. I have used almost all of these kinds of pots including the durable Smart Pots that look and feel like felt, but provide aeration for the plants. Smart Pots are very sturdy and will last for years.
Chapter three will give you the ten steps to success from choosing a location to harvest at the right time. Chapter four is a helpful set of gardening terms.
Chapter five begins on page 34, and ends at page 133. The journey takes us from Arugula, past cauliflower, peas, scallions and finally violas. Flowers are always a blessing on the dinner table. And what satisfaction to know that you can grow your own food.
Angela S. Judd is a master gardener in Arizona and she has published in Gardener’s Supply Company, Better Homes and Gardens, Kellogg Garden and more. She certainly encourages new gardeners and makes them feel confident and successful with her clear information.
I never heard of the Smart Pots before. Do they dry out faster than plastic?
Jeane – I cannot answer that. I use Smart Pots and terra cotta. I have nothing against plastic, I just don’t see it very often. Plastic is probably prettier.