文章
安静的美女子
2017年05月23日
Find out how to grow and care for fiddle leaf fig. Learn about the right growing requirements and fiddle leaf fig care below.
Image Credit: Thebrunetteone.com
USDA Zones— 10 – 11, *can be grown indoors in cooler zones
Difficulty— Easy
Scientific Name— Ficus lyrata
Placing a little piece of nature inside the house or apartment does not necessarily mean it will be difficult to maintain. Many plants that offer a beautiful and elegant look in the house are also easy to grow, such as fiddle leaf fig (ficus lyrata). Fiddle Leaf Fig is well suited for growing indoors because it does not become excessively large and at the same time remain noticeable. Fiddle leaf fig care and growing is simple if you fulfill a few basic requirements, which are given below.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Information
Fiddle leaf is native to tropics and on its origin place, it grows tall (up to 40 feet), but its size can easily be reduced and kept under control (under 2 m) when grown in pots as a houseplant. Fiddle leaf fig’s leaves are large and dark in color– glossy and leathery, furrowed with yellow veins.
The plant with proper pruning, grows so dense, creating a web of leaves that look elegant and can change the appearance of any room, able to aesthetically fit in any type of environment. It also produces fruit but they are not edible and difficult to develop indoors.
How to Grow Fiddle Leaf Fig TreePropagation
Propagation is usually done from cuttings in the spring. Growing fiddle leaf fig from cuttings is easy, if not available, you can buy a potted plant from nursery and multiply it.
Location
Fiddle leaf fig as a houseplant, grows in a well lit spot. Where it receives indirect sunlight all day long. It likes warm temperature approx. 60 – 70 F (15 – 20 C). When growing fiddle leaf fig, remember that it prefers moist, humid air. Homes are rather dry, so alternatively you can mist the plant often to increase the humidity level.
Requirements for Growing Fiddle Leaf Fig IndoorsSoil
Soil is an essential ingredient in the growth of healthy plant. Loose, well drained soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter is required.
Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist but let the top 1 inch surface to dry out between watering spells. In the summer it requires frequent watering. In winter, reduce the watering to avoid root rot.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care
Image Credit: Room for Tuesday
Fiddle leaf fig care is easy, it involves several requirements and steps, which are explained below.
Fertilization
Fertilize about once a month with a water soluble houseplant fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing when it is not in active growth, usually in winter.
Repotting
In every 2-3 years repot the plant or whenever you find that it is root bound, providing a container slightly larger than the previous one.
Cleaning
Cleaning the leaves is an important fiddle leaf plant care step. Its large feathery foliage becomes dusty quite often.
Pruning
Prune your plant to control its size and remove dead and diseased branches, if necessary. Regular pinching of the top of stem once it has reached the desired height prevents the plant from getting lanky and encourages branching.
Pests, Diseases and ProblemsPests
If leaves that have small dark or white diffused patches: this is the sign of the presence of pests, which if not eradicated can damage the plant or lead it to death. The most common pests are mites and cochineal.
It is therefore important to counter them as early as possible as stop the invasion. For evergreens, such as ficus lyrata, attention should always be kept, more in the summer period, when the high temperature and humidity together promote the ideal climate for the development of pests, particularly under the inner leaves, where air circulation is less.
Diseases and Problems
Plant suffers from root rot if grown in waterlogged soil. Ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering prevent this. Whereas, a bad appearance of the foliage or falling leaves are the most obvious symptoms of a few mistakes in the cultivation: Either the plant is exposed to cold drafts or temperature that is too rigid, watering is insufficient or conversely, too abundant. In any case, if treated in time the plant will recover from the damage.
Image Credit: Thebrunetteone.com
USDA Zones— 10 – 11, *can be grown indoors in cooler zones
Difficulty— Easy
Scientific Name— Ficus lyrata
Placing a little piece of nature inside the house or apartment does not necessarily mean it will be difficult to maintain. Many plants that offer a beautiful and elegant look in the house are also easy to grow, such as fiddle leaf fig (ficus lyrata). Fiddle Leaf Fig is well suited for growing indoors because it does not become excessively large and at the same time remain noticeable. Fiddle leaf fig care and growing is simple if you fulfill a few basic requirements, which are given below.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Information
Fiddle leaf is native to tropics and on its origin place, it grows tall (up to 40 feet), but its size can easily be reduced and kept under control (under 2 m) when grown in pots as a houseplant. Fiddle leaf fig’s leaves are large and dark in color– glossy and leathery, furrowed with yellow veins.
The plant with proper pruning, grows so dense, creating a web of leaves that look elegant and can change the appearance of any room, able to aesthetically fit in any type of environment. It also produces fruit but they are not edible and difficult to develop indoors.
How to Grow Fiddle Leaf Fig TreePropagation
Propagation is usually done from cuttings in the spring. Growing fiddle leaf fig from cuttings is easy, if not available, you can buy a potted plant from nursery and multiply it.
Location
Fiddle leaf fig as a houseplant, grows in a well lit spot. Where it receives indirect sunlight all day long. It likes warm temperature approx. 60 – 70 F (15 – 20 C). When growing fiddle leaf fig, remember that it prefers moist, humid air. Homes are rather dry, so alternatively you can mist the plant often to increase the humidity level.
Requirements for Growing Fiddle Leaf Fig IndoorsSoil
Soil is an essential ingredient in the growth of healthy plant. Loose, well drained soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter is required.
Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist but let the top 1 inch surface to dry out between watering spells. In the summer it requires frequent watering. In winter, reduce the watering to avoid root rot.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care
Image Credit: Room for Tuesday
Fiddle leaf fig care is easy, it involves several requirements and steps, which are explained below.
Fertilization
Fertilize about once a month with a water soluble houseplant fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing when it is not in active growth, usually in winter.
Repotting
In every 2-3 years repot the plant or whenever you find that it is root bound, providing a container slightly larger than the previous one.
Cleaning
Cleaning the leaves is an important fiddle leaf plant care step. Its large feathery foliage becomes dusty quite often.
Pruning
Prune your plant to control its size and remove dead and diseased branches, if necessary. Regular pinching of the top of stem once it has reached the desired height prevents the plant from getting lanky and encourages branching.
Pests, Diseases and ProblemsPests
If leaves that have small dark or white diffused patches: this is the sign of the presence of pests, which if not eradicated can damage the plant or lead it to death. The most common pests are mites and cochineal.
It is therefore important to counter them as early as possible as stop the invasion. For evergreens, such as ficus lyrata, attention should always be kept, more in the summer period, when the high temperature and humidity together promote the ideal climate for the development of pests, particularly under the inner leaves, where air circulation is less.
Diseases and Problems
Plant suffers from root rot if grown in waterlogged soil. Ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering prevent this. Whereas, a bad appearance of the foliage or falling leaves are the most obvious symptoms of a few mistakes in the cultivation: Either the plant is exposed to cold drafts or temperature that is too rigid, watering is insufficient or conversely, too abundant. In any case, if treated in time the plant will recover from the damage.
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lrgarden：good
文章
扭扭
2017年05月23日
Want to grow so many strawberries in so little space? Try one of these vertical DIY ideas for growing strawberries!
The fresh and juicy strawberries are one of the best fruits you can grow in containers
Also Read: How to Grow Strawberries
1. Vertical Strawberry Tube Planter
Ordinary PVC pipes are used for growing tons of strawberry plants in a small space, unbelievable. When you lack an appropriate garden space or yard, a vertical gardening idea like this can be tried. All you need for this DIY idea is a few PVC pipes, a drilling machine, and of course, some gardening essentials. Just keep in mind that vertical units require careful watering, so the last thing you would want is for them to dry out. The tutorial is available here!
2. Vertical Pyramid Planter
Go vertical, if you lack enough room to plant. A strawberry tower planter gives you the additional planting and growing space you need to showcase your love for this much-loved fruit. It’s an unusual and functional DIY garden project you can try. See the step by step DIY article here!
3. Hanging Basket
Growing strawberries in hanging baskets is possible and easy enough. An average-sized basket can fit a few strawberry plants. So, all you have to do is fill it up with the right rich potting soil and water regularly. That’s it! Check out the DIY tutorial on this site.
Also Read: The Right Time to Plant Strawberries
4. Strawberry Pallet Planter
A strawberry pallet planter is a clever idea to grow plants like strawberries that spread through runners; it also improves the productivity of this fruit. Pallets are cheap and sturdy; you can use them to create a raised bed like structure. Must see the tutorial post here!
5. Hanging Strawberry Planters
Growing strawberries up in the air in hanging containers is a simple and easy way to grow a lot of plants in a little to no space. Choose some big tin cans as a planter, also some cool color paint. This perfect idea of recycling used TIN CANS can be found here.
6. Strawberry Tower
A strawberry tower with an in-built reservoir is an excellent and unique way to grow juicy and fresh strawberries when you’re short of space. Easy to maintain, it is made of an array of plastic pots stacked up one on top of each other in the form of a tower. Also, the inbuilt reservoir makes watering a lot easier. This fantastic step by step DIY idea is curated from A Piece of Rainbow.
7. Strawberry Gutter Garden
Strawberries are super easy fruits to grow in gutters; it also saves them from diseases like crown rot and fruit rot. Also, this you can grow so many plants. See the step by step DIY idea with pictures here.
8. Stepped Strawberry Ladder
Not only the strawberries but you can also grow vegetables and herbs following this smart idea. You will need some help with the assembly process, though, as this is one of those DIY ideas for growing strawberries that need considerable effort. Once the structure is complete, fill up the planter boxes with the correct potting soil, seedlings and then watch them grow. The step by step article is available here.
Also Read: Vertical Garden Ideas for Small Gardens
9. A Strawberry Jar
A strawberry jar is a fun way to plant strawberries. After all, what is more, appealing than a nicely painted jar brimming with lush, green suckers and deep red berries. The one thing that makes these jars unique is that they have holes on their sides in addition to the top. This facilitates easy watering and proper care. To increase variety, plant another ornamental or edible plant, such as thyme or cilantro along with the strawberries, if you like. Click here to learn more this DIY idea.
The fresh and juicy strawberries are one of the best fruits you can grow in containers
Also Read: How to Grow Strawberries
1. Vertical Strawberry Tube Planter
Ordinary PVC pipes are used for growing tons of strawberry plants in a small space, unbelievable. When you lack an appropriate garden space or yard, a vertical gardening idea like this can be tried. All you need for this DIY idea is a few PVC pipes, a drilling machine, and of course, some gardening essentials. Just keep in mind that vertical units require careful watering, so the last thing you would want is for them to dry out. The tutorial is available here!
2. Vertical Pyramid Planter
Go vertical, if you lack enough room to plant. A strawberry tower planter gives you the additional planting and growing space you need to showcase your love for this much-loved fruit. It’s an unusual and functional DIY garden project you can try. See the step by step DIY article here!
3. Hanging Basket
Growing strawberries in hanging baskets is possible and easy enough. An average-sized basket can fit a few strawberry plants. So, all you have to do is fill it up with the right rich potting soil and water regularly. That’s it! Check out the DIY tutorial on this site.
Also Read: The Right Time to Plant Strawberries
4. Strawberry Pallet Planter
A strawberry pallet planter is a clever idea to grow plants like strawberries that spread through runners; it also improves the productivity of this fruit. Pallets are cheap and sturdy; you can use them to create a raised bed like structure. Must see the tutorial post here!
5. Hanging Strawberry Planters
Growing strawberries up in the air in hanging containers is a simple and easy way to grow a lot of plants in a little to no space. Choose some big tin cans as a planter, also some cool color paint. This perfect idea of recycling used TIN CANS can be found here.
6. Strawberry Tower
A strawberry tower with an in-built reservoir is an excellent and unique way to grow juicy and fresh strawberries when you’re short of space. Easy to maintain, it is made of an array of plastic pots stacked up one on top of each other in the form of a tower. Also, the inbuilt reservoir makes watering a lot easier. This fantastic step by step DIY idea is curated from A Piece of Rainbow.
7. Strawberry Gutter Garden
Strawberries are super easy fruits to grow in gutters; it also saves them from diseases like crown rot and fruit rot. Also, this you can grow so many plants. See the step by step DIY idea with pictures here.
8. Stepped Strawberry Ladder
Not only the strawberries but you can also grow vegetables and herbs following this smart idea. You will need some help with the assembly process, though, as this is one of those DIY ideas for growing strawberries that need considerable effort. Once the structure is complete, fill up the planter boxes with the correct potting soil, seedlings and then watch them grow. The step by step article is available here.
Also Read: Vertical Garden Ideas for Small Gardens
9. A Strawberry Jar
A strawberry jar is a fun way to plant strawberries. After all, what is more, appealing than a nicely painted jar brimming with lush, green suckers and deep red berries. The one thing that makes these jars unique is that they have holes on their sides in addition to the top. This facilitates easy watering and proper care. To increase variety, plant another ornamental or edible plant, such as thyme or cilantro along with the strawberries, if you like. Click here to learn more this DIY idea.
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1
文章
lenny
2017年05月23日
Are you growing a Terrace Garden? If yes then this informational guide on ‘Terrace/Roof Garden Plants’ will surely help you in choosing the plants for terrace garden.
First, assess these characteristics of your terrace accurately: Do you want to grow plants on its floor, in raised beds or in pots? Do you have large or small terrace? Is it shady or sunny?
Selection of terrace garden plants completely depends up on the factors listed above.
In general, better to choose large containers when growing plants for terrace garden because in large containers, plants grow more easily: better moisture conservation and nutrient supply, room for ample root development.
Terrace Garden Vegetables
Well sized pots or raised beds, an ideal exposure to sun, water, slightly acidic and fertile soil and sufficient drainage, this is all you need to have your own vegetable garden.
Vegetables need more care then herbs, so if you’re growing them for first time, start by salads: tomatoes, especially cherry tomatoes, radishes and cucumbers are easy to grow.
You can also grow vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, okras (lady finger) and chilies and strawberries (fruit of course). If you’ll dedicate at least half an hour in a day to some regular gardening chores like pinching, pruning, watering and fertilizing every couple of week or in a month according to your plants’ needs, you’ll get success.
Terrace Garden Flowers
If you feel an urge to grow different, exotic and beautiful flowers on your terrace to make a roof flower garden then grow lot of annuals.
You can plant some tulip bulbs and hyacinths, colorful primroses are also easy to grow.
In summer, grow petunias, pansies and begonias and some exotic flowers depending on your climate.
Hibiscus comes in variety of colors, grow it, you can plant roses, too.
If you live in warm climate, grow these flowers in fall and winter.
Plants for Terrace Herb Garden
The first way to get into the gardener’s skin is often begins with a pot of basil that arises near the edge of the kitchen window.
Gradually, try various herbs to enhance taste of your dishes and salads. Herbs are quickest and easy to grow plants.
Thyme, rosemary, lavender and sage require less watering and grows well on a sunny terrace. Basil, chive, parsley or cilantro need moderate sun and watering. Do not forget the lemon grass and mint which can be used in many cuisines and in preparation of teas.
Depending on your climate and needs, you can try other herbs too on your terrace garden.
Also Read: How to Grow Curry Tree
Low Maintenance Succulents and Perennials
There are a multitude of succulents and perennials, that push themselves to one year to another.
In full sun to partial shade, most of the succulents are grown on well drained and dried growing medium, so they require little maintenance.
Aloes and various cacti are low maintenance. You can grow them in small pots too.
Certain grasses, sage and plants of the composite family like asters, daisies, zinnia, black eyed susan or chamomile and marigolds are possible.
If you have a shady terrace facing north, look for varieties of ferns, and other shade loving plants like English ivy, impatiens and balsams.
Shrubs, Dwarf Trees and Vines
If the size of your terrace garden allows, make the choice of small trees, evergreen shrubs and vines.
In less sunny spot, grow camellias and rhododendrons, Japanese maples and honeysuckles, sweet autumn clematis.
In full sun, grow the lemon tree, the oleanders, olive tree, a flowering virbunum, some dwarf fruits trees like apple, pomegranates, guavas, figs and even mangoes in pot (if your climate allows).
Don’t forget to care about the water requirements, humidity levels and sensitivity of each plant and the rapid development of some vigorous plants, whose exuberance lead you to their too severe pruning or disposal.
Pay attention to the choice of containers
Pots or trays should be chosen in harmony with each plant: combining the beauty and requirements both.
Traditional Terracotta pots are timeless, they retain their charm in all seasons, but it must be remembered that these pots are expensive, heavier and frost susceptible.
If you do a little research and visit your nearby garden centers, you’ll find many frugal and possibilities: containers made of wood, metal, concrete and polyester resins, some flashy colored pots for darker areas.
First, assess these characteristics of your terrace accurately: Do you want to grow plants on its floor, in raised beds or in pots? Do you have large or small terrace? Is it shady or sunny?
Selection of terrace garden plants completely depends up on the factors listed above.
In general, better to choose large containers when growing plants for terrace garden because in large containers, plants grow more easily: better moisture conservation and nutrient supply, room for ample root development.
Terrace Garden Vegetables
Well sized pots or raised beds, an ideal exposure to sun, water, slightly acidic and fertile soil and sufficient drainage, this is all you need to have your own vegetable garden.
Vegetables need more care then herbs, so if you’re growing them for first time, start by salads: tomatoes, especially cherry tomatoes, radishes and cucumbers are easy to grow.
You can also grow vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, okras (lady finger) and chilies and strawberries (fruit of course). If you’ll dedicate at least half an hour in a day to some regular gardening chores like pinching, pruning, watering and fertilizing every couple of week or in a month according to your plants’ needs, you’ll get success.
Terrace Garden Flowers
If you feel an urge to grow different, exotic and beautiful flowers on your terrace to make a roof flower garden then grow lot of annuals.
You can plant some tulip bulbs and hyacinths, colorful primroses are also easy to grow.
In summer, grow petunias, pansies and begonias and some exotic flowers depending on your climate.
Hibiscus comes in variety of colors, grow it, you can plant roses, too.
If you live in warm climate, grow these flowers in fall and winter.
Plants for Terrace Herb Garden
The first way to get into the gardener’s skin is often begins with a pot of basil that arises near the edge of the kitchen window.
Gradually, try various herbs to enhance taste of your dishes and salads. Herbs are quickest and easy to grow plants.
Thyme, rosemary, lavender and sage require less watering and grows well on a sunny terrace. Basil, chive, parsley or cilantro need moderate sun and watering. Do not forget the lemon grass and mint which can be used in many cuisines and in preparation of teas.
Depending on your climate and needs, you can try other herbs too on your terrace garden.
Also Read: How to Grow Curry Tree
Low Maintenance Succulents and Perennials
There are a multitude of succulents and perennials, that push themselves to one year to another.
In full sun to partial shade, most of the succulents are grown on well drained and dried growing medium, so they require little maintenance.
Aloes and various cacti are low maintenance. You can grow them in small pots too.
Certain grasses, sage and plants of the composite family like asters, daisies, zinnia, black eyed susan or chamomile and marigolds are possible.
If you have a shady terrace facing north, look for varieties of ferns, and other shade loving plants like English ivy, impatiens and balsams.
Shrubs, Dwarf Trees and Vines
If the size of your terrace garden allows, make the choice of small trees, evergreen shrubs and vines.
In less sunny spot, grow camellias and rhododendrons, Japanese maples and honeysuckles, sweet autumn clematis.
In full sun, grow the lemon tree, the oleanders, olive tree, a flowering virbunum, some dwarf fruits trees like apple, pomegranates, guavas, figs and even mangoes in pot (if your climate allows).
Don’t forget to care about the water requirements, humidity levels and sensitivity of each plant and the rapid development of some vigorous plants, whose exuberance lead you to their too severe pruning or disposal.
Pay attention to the choice of containers
Pots or trays should be chosen in harmony with each plant: combining the beauty and requirements both.
Traditional Terracotta pots are timeless, they retain their charm in all seasons, but it must be remembered that these pots are expensive, heavier and frost susceptible.
If you do a little research and visit your nearby garden centers, you’ll find many frugal and possibilities: containers made of wood, metal, concrete and polyester resins, some flashy colored pots for darker areas.
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0
文章
Gina
2017年05月23日
It’s no secret to anyone who went through kindergarten that you can grow plants from some of the cuttings of common vegetables. But for those of you about to head into winter (or just because!) and are going to be missing your more tropical looking plants in the garden, we have a great quick tip for you. Are you aware, that if you replant the top of a pineapple, not only will it grow, it grows into a very cool, modern looking houseplant you can enjoy all winter? Who-da thunk?
Here’s how:
Cut or twist off the top of your pineapple by just grasping with gloves, then twist until it comes apart. Peel off the bottom leaves until a good chunk of base is exposed. (You don’t want leaves sitting in water to rot.) Then slice off the bottom to make it a clean cut. Set in a saucer of water to root. Make sure you keep the bottom section from drying out while it’s rooting. Once you see a good number of new roots forming (about 3 weeks or so) then you can pot it up. Use a moisture retaining potting soil and pot up you plant, making sure you firm the soil well around the base. Keep the soil evenly moist. In a few weeks the roots should take hold in the soil and you will have a new plant! Keep in bright light, and water regularly.
Beat that for easy! Will your plant grow a pineapple? Eh…maybe in a few years if it has the right conditions, but it will be an excellent reminder of summer all year round…Any other ideas for cool house plants grown from fruits or veggies? And yes, we did say cool… no one wants to see your avocado pit on the windowsill!
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文章
Hande Salcan
2017年05月23日
Bamboo is a great choice for specimen planting or for screening, and it can be easy to grow if you know how to manage it. It fits in with most garden styles, and there are varieties of nearly every size and for every hardiness zone. Here are the basics on how to grow bamboo in your garden!
Types of Bamboo
There are basically two types of bamboo. Running bamboo is the type you have been warned about that can take over your entire yard (and the next one) in a pretty darn short time, turning it into a tropical jungle. But with some tricks, you can grow it!
Clumping bamboo is more well contained, and while it still spreads underground, it is much slower and controlled. This is a better choice for the casual gardener, or those with limited space but who still want to enjoy the beauty of graceful bamboo.
Bamboo Basics
Both types of bamboo have tropical varieties meant for warmer climates, and mountainous varieties hardy down to -15 degrees or more. Check your nursery tag.
Choose a bamboo that has a mature height that fits in with the scale of the effect you desire. Screening bamboos can be taller, specimens can be shorter.
Bamboo requires well drained soil.
For the first two years in the ground, water your bamboo well. Fertilize once in the spring. If you are trying to prevent running bamboo from, well, running… don’t fertilize as often.
Check on whether your variety prefers full sun, or some afternoon shade.
Prune back to the ground old, dull culms every year. (Culms are the upright “blades” of bamboo.) Some gardeners prefer to prune off any branches that extend horizontally, so that all culms run vertically straight up for a graphic and striking effect. If you have culms flopping over, they probably require more water, less feritlizer. You can prune back the height to help them recover, or just prune them down altogether.
How to Grow Running Bamboo
If you have found a species of running bamboo that you just have to try, you will have to contain the underground roots from spreading beyond your planting area. There are several ways to achieve this.
You can transplant your nursery bamboo into a large pot, then plant the whole pot into the ground. Leave the collar of the pot above ground. Cover with mulch if you find it unsightly.
Another option is to place a plastic or concrete barrier at least 12-18 inches below the soil. Bamboo are shallow rooted so this should prevent the bamboo from running away. You can prune back to the ground any culms that escape beyond the barrier.
Finally, you can dig a 12 inch deep trench around the area you would like to contain the bamboo too. Fill with sand, then several times a season, pull back the sand and prune back any roots that have poked through into the trench.
How to Grow Clumping Bamboo
Clumping Bamboo is much less likely to run rampant across your property. Many varieties are quite polite in fact. Make sure you check the size and space requirements of the variety you purchase.
Bamboo in Containers
Both types of bamboo can be grown successfully in containers. This is the lowest maintenance option, and can help maintain the health of the rest of your garden. Be sure to choose a container large enough to be in scale with the eventual height of your variety.
Bamboo is not the garden evil that urban legend portrays…as long as you tend to it’s needs. It can turn a ho hum yard into a stunning garden in a short time, with these few bamboo growing tips and tricks. So are you brave enough to give it a try?
Types of Bamboo
There are basically two types of bamboo. Running bamboo is the type you have been warned about that can take over your entire yard (and the next one) in a pretty darn short time, turning it into a tropical jungle. But with some tricks, you can grow it!
Clumping bamboo is more well contained, and while it still spreads underground, it is much slower and controlled. This is a better choice for the casual gardener, or those with limited space but who still want to enjoy the beauty of graceful bamboo.
Bamboo Basics
Both types of bamboo have tropical varieties meant for warmer climates, and mountainous varieties hardy down to -15 degrees or more. Check your nursery tag.
Choose a bamboo that has a mature height that fits in with the scale of the effect you desire. Screening bamboos can be taller, specimens can be shorter.
Bamboo requires well drained soil.
For the first two years in the ground, water your bamboo well. Fertilize once in the spring. If you are trying to prevent running bamboo from, well, running… don’t fertilize as often.
Check on whether your variety prefers full sun, or some afternoon shade.
Prune back to the ground old, dull culms every year. (Culms are the upright “blades” of bamboo.) Some gardeners prefer to prune off any branches that extend horizontally, so that all culms run vertically straight up for a graphic and striking effect. If you have culms flopping over, they probably require more water, less feritlizer. You can prune back the height to help them recover, or just prune them down altogether.
How to Grow Running Bamboo
If you have found a species of running bamboo that you just have to try, you will have to contain the underground roots from spreading beyond your planting area. There are several ways to achieve this.
You can transplant your nursery bamboo into a large pot, then plant the whole pot into the ground. Leave the collar of the pot above ground. Cover with mulch if you find it unsightly.
Another option is to place a plastic or concrete barrier at least 12-18 inches below the soil. Bamboo are shallow rooted so this should prevent the bamboo from running away. You can prune back to the ground any culms that escape beyond the barrier.
Finally, you can dig a 12 inch deep trench around the area you would like to contain the bamboo too. Fill with sand, then several times a season, pull back the sand and prune back any roots that have poked through into the trench.
How to Grow Clumping Bamboo
Clumping Bamboo is much less likely to run rampant across your property. Many varieties are quite polite in fact. Make sure you check the size and space requirements of the variety you purchase.
Bamboo in Containers
Both types of bamboo can be grown successfully in containers. This is the lowest maintenance option, and can help maintain the health of the rest of your garden. Be sure to choose a container large enough to be in scale with the eventual height of your variety.
Bamboo is not the garden evil that urban legend portrays…as long as you tend to it’s needs. It can turn a ho hum yard into a stunning garden in a short time, with these few bamboo growing tips and tricks. So are you brave enough to give it a try?
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文章
Juze
2017年05月23日
Learn how to grow papaya tree. Growing papaya is perfect for gardeners who like to grow easy to grow fruit trees. Papaya tree care is simple, it is low maintenance and productive.
USDA Zones— 9 – 11
Difficulty— Easy
Other Names— Banane de Prairie, Caricae Papayae Folium, Carica papaya, Carica peltata, Carica posoposa, Chirbhita, Erandachirbhita, Erand Karkati, Green Papaya, Mamaerie, Melonenbaumblaetter, Melon Tree, Papaw, Pawpaw, Papaya Fruit, Papayas, Papaye, Papaye Verte, Papayer, Papita.
Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is native to the tropics of Mexico and Central America. This fruit for high nutritional value, great taste and medicinal properties.
Papaya is mainly consumed as a fruit, but it is also used for making soft drinks, juices, pickles, jams, and curries. It produces latex that is extracted from the green fruit and stem, which contains an enzyme called papain that helps in digestion of proteins.
Plant Characteristics
Papaya is a herbaceous plant of relatively rapid growth and short life (not profitable to cultivate mature plants for longer than 3 years because the fruit yield gets low). It has a hollow, segmented and erect single stem and no branches. It presents a many large, lobed leaves. The plant height can reach up to several meters.
The fruit has a wide variety of forms, its shape and size vary depending on the variety and type of flower.
Pollination
If you’re growing papaya you must know that papayas come in three sexes: Male, female and hermaphrodite (bisexual). Male papaya trees must be eliminated as they don’t produce fruits. Female papaya trees require male tree for pollination. In orchards and papaya plantations, generally, 1 male tree per 10 female trees is grown. Bisexual papaya trees are self-pollinating and don’t require male trees for pollination. Commercial growers plant them. You will need to plant either female or bisexual papaya tree.
To learn how to identify male or female papaya, tree read this informative discussion on helpful gardener
Our recommendation for you is to buy seeds from quality source so that you know what you’re buying and to get a self-fertile bisexual tree. Most of the hybrid varieties that are coming are either bisexual or female, it is better to buy them. If you’re sowing seeds obtained from the fruits, choose seeds from elongated fruits instead of rounded fruits. Elongated fruits have 66% probability of hermaphrodite (bisexual) seeds and 33% female seeds.
Cross pollination from hand is required for pollination of female papaya trees.
How to Grow Papaya in Pots
Growing papaya in pots is not difficult, considering it is short living small tree. You can grow any papaya variety in pots but it is better to choose a dwarf variety.
Choosing a container
Choose a large 15-20 gallon size container for growing papaya in pots, also, ensure there are enough drainage holes in the bottom before planting. A pot that is around 18-22 inches in diameter and 12-15 inches deep would be sufficient.
Sow the seeds directly in the pot you wish to use for growing papaya tree as papayas don’t transplant well. All the other growing requirements are given below in the article.
Growing Papaya from Seeds
Seeds must be given treatment before sowing for germination. The first method is to simply wash the seeds to remove gelatinous coating before sowing. Another method is to immerse them in a container full of neutral water for the period of 4 days. Change the water twice in a day. After 2 days of soaking, separate the seeds that are floating on the surface from those that have settled down.
Leave the seeds that are settled down for another day. After this time, the seeds that float up again must be removed. This way only the viable papaya seeds are left. On the last day when changing the water, add fungicides in it.
After this process, keep the seeds on cotton cloth for 2 to 3 days, keeping up the seeds wet. Once the white dot in them can be observed they are ready for sowing.
Proceed to sow the seeds directly on the ground or in the pot or seed tray but remember that papaya trees don’t transplant well and you’ll have a low success rate. Seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Optimum germination temperature is around 70 F (20 C).
Planting Papaya Tree
Once the seedlings germinate sow them directly in a spot as papayas have less success rate when transplanted.
Prepare the ground well before planting. Make a hole in soil that is of the same depth as of rootball of the plant but twice wide. Apply slow release 16-48-0, 18-46-0 or balanced 15-15-15 fertilizer according to the product instruction at the base of the hole, fill it with a thin layer of soil to prevent the plant roots from coming in direct contact with the fertilizer.
The base of each plant should be 1 cm above ground level, to prevent rot at the stem base. After transplanting, a fungicide can be applied to ensure greater protection especially if planting during the rainy season.
How to Grow Papaya Tree in Cold Climate
Papaya is a tropical fruit tree but if you are thinking to plant it in a temperate climate plant it in a large pot and try to overwinter it in a well-protected area, like a greenhouse. Another way is to start the seeds in fall, or in early spring indoors. Once the temperature soars up to plant the seedlings outside. The tree will grow until the frost comes and get killed but there is a possibility that you’ll get some juicy papayas.
Requirements for Growing Papaya TreeTemperature
It is also an important factor that determines if the plant will grow or not. Papaya is one of the easiest fruit trees you can grow the optimum temperature for growing papaya ranges between 68 – 86 F (20 to 30 C).
Low temperatures lead to a slow growth of the plant and higher temperatures cause low production. However, papaya tree can bear cold temperature down to 32 F (0 C) for a short period of time. In extremely high tropical temperatures and in heat waves and droughts, flower buds fall and the plant suspends its growth.
Location
The papaya needs plenty of sun due to its high photosynthetic activity. It is impossible to grow it in the lack of sunlight. One more thing you need to keep in mind when choosing a location for growing papaya trees that they are not strongest and must not be planted in a too windy spot.
Spacing
Papaya trees must be spaced 8-10 feet apart from each other.
Soil
The main characteristics of soil for growing a papaya tree are following:
Loose and moist.With good drainage.High organic matter content.A pH level around 5.5 to 7 (Neutral).Fertile and deep.
The ideal growing medium must be loamy and have adequate content of organic matter with good moisture retention and efficient drainage. Soil depth is also an important factor for root development. The soil that is more than a meter deep is suitable. Compact soil must be avoided, also, clean the rocks or other debris that is limiting the development of roots till the following depth.
Drainage is crucial in papaya cultivation. The proportion of sand, silt and clay determines the texture and soil structure.
Sandy soils have better drainage than clay. But too sandy soils that are low in organic matter have reduced water retention capacity, which must be avoided.
In clay-rich soils, water movement is slow and this can lead to root rot, slow development of plant and inhibit nutrition uptake. In very alkaline soils (above pH level 8.0) Zinc, iron, and other micro-element deficiency can occur.
Excess water causes yellowing of young leaves, premature fall of flowers and contribute to root rot. Low moisture in the soil can lead to slow growth, accelerated aging and premature leaf and fruit drop.
Good soil preparation practices are key to growing papaya, such as deep plowing and mixing organic matter.
Watering
Water is the main contributor of the plant (the plant is composed about 85% of water). In the process of germination, and first few months after planting, papaya needs a lot of water, so at this stage water regularly.
In the dry season, to get the good results in production, watering must be increased again. Keep the soil slightly moist but not wet. As a rule of thumb, water papaya plant deeply when top 1 inch of soil dries out.
Papaya Tree Care
Papaya tree care is easy if you grow it in the warm conditions in full sun.
Mulching
Mulching papaya tree with organic matter helps in retaining moisture, which is essential.
Fertilizer
Papayas are heavy feeders. Apply plenty of manure or compost regularly near the base of your plant.
You can also apply complete fertilizer 15-15-15, 0.1 kg or a similar mixture at intervals of two weeks during the first six months and 0.2 kg thereafter.
Pruning
No pruning is required.
Pests and Diseases
Pests that can attack it are fruit flies, mites, black vine weevil, aphids, leafhoppers, and whitefly. In diseases, it suffers from soil fungi, powdery mildew, fruit rot, papaya ringspot virus, and nematodes.
Harvesting Papayas
Papaya fruit set occurs 10-12 months after planting. The fruit is sensitive to sunburn and it must be separated from the tree carefully using plastic gloves or something similar, pick it lightly with a twist or use a short knife, leaving 0.5 cm stalk.
Harvesting should be done according to the following maturity indices:
1. 0% Ripe: Completely green, but well developed.
2. 10-15% Ripe: Color change, one or two yellow stripes with 10-15% yellow surface shell surrounded by a bright green color.
3. 25% Ripe: 25% of the surface of the shell is yellow surrounded by the clear green color.
4. 75% Ripe: 75% of the surface is yellow.
5. 76-100% Ripe: The surface of the shell have yellow to orange color.
Papaya is a fruit that after being cut continues its maturation without stopping. Papayas that are harvested for selling in the market are harvested green with two or three yellow stripes as fruits that reach 75 to 100% maturity are difficult to transport. Fruits must be harvested in the early hours of the day and must not be exposed to the sun.
USDA Zones— 9 – 11
Difficulty— Easy
Other Names— Banane de Prairie, Caricae Papayae Folium, Carica papaya, Carica peltata, Carica posoposa, Chirbhita, Erandachirbhita, Erand Karkati, Green Papaya, Mamaerie, Melonenbaumblaetter, Melon Tree, Papaw, Pawpaw, Papaya Fruit, Papayas, Papaye, Papaye Verte, Papayer, Papita.
Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is native to the tropics of Mexico and Central America. This fruit for high nutritional value, great taste and medicinal properties.
Papaya is mainly consumed as a fruit, but it is also used for making soft drinks, juices, pickles, jams, and curries. It produces latex that is extracted from the green fruit and stem, which contains an enzyme called papain that helps in digestion of proteins.
Plant Characteristics
Papaya is a herbaceous plant of relatively rapid growth and short life (not profitable to cultivate mature plants for longer than 3 years because the fruit yield gets low). It has a hollow, segmented and erect single stem and no branches. It presents a many large, lobed leaves. The plant height can reach up to several meters.
The fruit has a wide variety of forms, its shape and size vary depending on the variety and type of flower.
Pollination
If you’re growing papaya you must know that papayas come in three sexes: Male, female and hermaphrodite (bisexual). Male papaya trees must be eliminated as they don’t produce fruits. Female papaya trees require male tree for pollination. In orchards and papaya plantations, generally, 1 male tree per 10 female trees is grown. Bisexual papaya trees are self-pollinating and don’t require male trees for pollination. Commercial growers plant them. You will need to plant either female or bisexual papaya tree.
To learn how to identify male or female papaya, tree read this informative discussion on helpful gardener
Our recommendation for you is to buy seeds from quality source so that you know what you’re buying and to get a self-fertile bisexual tree. Most of the hybrid varieties that are coming are either bisexual or female, it is better to buy them. If you’re sowing seeds obtained from the fruits, choose seeds from elongated fruits instead of rounded fruits. Elongated fruits have 66% probability of hermaphrodite (bisexual) seeds and 33% female seeds.
Cross pollination from hand is required for pollination of female papaya trees.
How to Grow Papaya in Pots
Growing papaya in pots is not difficult, considering it is short living small tree. You can grow any papaya variety in pots but it is better to choose a dwarf variety.
Choosing a container
Choose a large 15-20 gallon size container for growing papaya in pots, also, ensure there are enough drainage holes in the bottom before planting. A pot that is around 18-22 inches in diameter and 12-15 inches deep would be sufficient.
Sow the seeds directly in the pot you wish to use for growing papaya tree as papayas don’t transplant well. All the other growing requirements are given below in the article.
Growing Papaya from Seeds
Seeds must be given treatment before sowing for germination. The first method is to simply wash the seeds to remove gelatinous coating before sowing. Another method is to immerse them in a container full of neutral water for the period of 4 days. Change the water twice in a day. After 2 days of soaking, separate the seeds that are floating on the surface from those that have settled down.
Leave the seeds that are settled down for another day. After this time, the seeds that float up again must be removed. This way only the viable papaya seeds are left. On the last day when changing the water, add fungicides in it.
After this process, keep the seeds on cotton cloth for 2 to 3 days, keeping up the seeds wet. Once the white dot in them can be observed they are ready for sowing.
Proceed to sow the seeds directly on the ground or in the pot or seed tray but remember that papaya trees don’t transplant well and you’ll have a low success rate. Seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Optimum germination temperature is around 70 F (20 C).
Planting Papaya Tree
Once the seedlings germinate sow them directly in a spot as papayas have less success rate when transplanted.
Prepare the ground well before planting. Make a hole in soil that is of the same depth as of rootball of the plant but twice wide. Apply slow release 16-48-0, 18-46-0 or balanced 15-15-15 fertilizer according to the product instruction at the base of the hole, fill it with a thin layer of soil to prevent the plant roots from coming in direct contact with the fertilizer.
The base of each plant should be 1 cm above ground level, to prevent rot at the stem base. After transplanting, a fungicide can be applied to ensure greater protection especially if planting during the rainy season.
How to Grow Papaya Tree in Cold Climate
Papaya is a tropical fruit tree but if you are thinking to plant it in a temperate climate plant it in a large pot and try to overwinter it in a well-protected area, like a greenhouse. Another way is to start the seeds in fall, or in early spring indoors. Once the temperature soars up to plant the seedlings outside. The tree will grow until the frost comes and get killed but there is a possibility that you’ll get some juicy papayas.
Requirements for Growing Papaya TreeTemperature
It is also an important factor that determines if the plant will grow or not. Papaya is one of the easiest fruit trees you can grow the optimum temperature for growing papaya ranges between 68 – 86 F (20 to 30 C).
Low temperatures lead to a slow growth of the plant and higher temperatures cause low production. However, papaya tree can bear cold temperature down to 32 F (0 C) for a short period of time. In extremely high tropical temperatures and in heat waves and droughts, flower buds fall and the plant suspends its growth.
Location
The papaya needs plenty of sun due to its high photosynthetic activity. It is impossible to grow it in the lack of sunlight. One more thing you need to keep in mind when choosing a location for growing papaya trees that they are not strongest and must not be planted in a too windy spot.
Spacing
Papaya trees must be spaced 8-10 feet apart from each other.
Soil
The main characteristics of soil for growing a papaya tree are following:
Loose and moist.With good drainage.High organic matter content.A pH level around 5.5 to 7 (Neutral).Fertile and deep.
The ideal growing medium must be loamy and have adequate content of organic matter with good moisture retention and efficient drainage. Soil depth is also an important factor for root development. The soil that is more than a meter deep is suitable. Compact soil must be avoided, also, clean the rocks or other debris that is limiting the development of roots till the following depth.
Drainage is crucial in papaya cultivation. The proportion of sand, silt and clay determines the texture and soil structure.
Sandy soils have better drainage than clay. But too sandy soils that are low in organic matter have reduced water retention capacity, which must be avoided.
In clay-rich soils, water movement is slow and this can lead to root rot, slow development of plant and inhibit nutrition uptake. In very alkaline soils (above pH level 8.0) Zinc, iron, and other micro-element deficiency can occur.
Excess water causes yellowing of young leaves, premature fall of flowers and contribute to root rot. Low moisture in the soil can lead to slow growth, accelerated aging and premature leaf and fruit drop.
Good soil preparation practices are key to growing papaya, such as deep plowing and mixing organic matter.
Watering
Water is the main contributor of the plant (the plant is composed about 85% of water). In the process of germination, and first few months after planting, papaya needs a lot of water, so at this stage water regularly.
In the dry season, to get the good results in production, watering must be increased again. Keep the soil slightly moist but not wet. As a rule of thumb, water papaya plant deeply when top 1 inch of soil dries out.
Papaya Tree Care
Papaya tree care is easy if you grow it in the warm conditions in full sun.
Mulching
Mulching papaya tree with organic matter helps in retaining moisture, which is essential.
Fertilizer
Papayas are heavy feeders. Apply plenty of manure or compost regularly near the base of your plant.
You can also apply complete fertilizer 15-15-15, 0.1 kg or a similar mixture at intervals of two weeks during the first six months and 0.2 kg thereafter.
Pruning
No pruning is required.
Pests and Diseases
Pests that can attack it are fruit flies, mites, black vine weevil, aphids, leafhoppers, and whitefly. In diseases, it suffers from soil fungi, powdery mildew, fruit rot, papaya ringspot virus, and nematodes.
Harvesting Papayas
Papaya fruit set occurs 10-12 months after planting. The fruit is sensitive to sunburn and it must be separated from the tree carefully using plastic gloves or something similar, pick it lightly with a twist or use a short knife, leaving 0.5 cm stalk.
Harvesting should be done according to the following maturity indices:
1. 0% Ripe: Completely green, but well developed.
2. 10-15% Ripe: Color change, one or two yellow stripes with 10-15% yellow surface shell surrounded by a bright green color.
3. 25% Ripe: 25% of the surface of the shell is yellow surrounded by the clear green color.
4. 75% Ripe: 75% of the surface is yellow.
5. 76-100% Ripe: The surface of the shell have yellow to orange color.
Papaya is a fruit that after being cut continues its maturation without stopping. Papayas that are harvested for selling in the market are harvested green with two or three yellow stripes as fruits that reach 75 to 100% maturity are difficult to transport. Fruits must be harvested in the early hours of the day and must not be exposed to the sun.
3
0
文章
小马奥
2017年05月23日
Want to grow FRESH & ORGANIC vegetables but short of space? No problem, you can even do this near your kitchen window. Just learn about the Windowsill Vegetable Gardening and 11 best vegetables you can grow there!
So what if you don’t have a big outdoor space to grow your own food, you can also grow your own fresh and organic vegetables in a small space– on your windowsill. Improvise and act, get some window boxes, hanging baskets or make some cool DIY containers.
Also Read: Windowsill Herb Garden
It’s fun and exciting and you’ll be successful if you care about a few things: Your window must receive minimum 4-5 hours of sunlight, you should fertilize your plants correctly and the balance in watering must be maintained (avoiding both overwatering and underwatering).
Also Read: How to Water Container Plants
1. Green Onions
Fresh green onions can be a wonderful and delicious addition to your salad bowls and sandwiches. In a small space like a windowsill, you can get enough harvest. You can even grow green onions in water. See the tutorial! If you want, you can try to grow onions, too. Also, vertically in plastic bottles. Check out this post.
A Tip: If you’re growing green onions in water, replace the water every day.
2. Loose Leaf Lettuce
After green onions growing lettuce is one of the easiest things in the windowsill gardening! It doesn’t require a sunny window, a few hours of sunlight is enough, if not, you can also use artificial light. And the best part is you can make decorative arrangements, combining red or green leaf lettuces in the same pot or choosing variegated ones.
A Tip: Wide-shallow containers are sufficient and provide you small crop. Learn how to grow lettuce in a pot here.
3. Tomatoes
Growing tomatoes on a windowsill is easy if it is sunny. A great way to grow and enjoy fresh, organic, juicy tomatoes indoors. For best results, choose dwarf varieties (cherry tomatoes, are perfect). Also, some varieties that grow well on windowsill includes Early Salad, Red Cushion, Pretty Patio and Tiny Tim.
Also Read: How to Grow So Many Tomatoes in So Little Space
A Tip: Cherry tomatoes don’t require a big deep pot, you can use a small to medium sized container. If you like to grow them in hanging baskets near your windows, it is possible too. Learn how to do this here.
4. Spinach
You can have your own spinach and you don’t need a big yard for this. You can grow it on a windowsill if it receives only a few hours of sun. Here’s the helpful guide on growing spinach in containers.
A Tip: Keep the soil slightly moist and provide shallow but wide planter, a 6 inches deep pot would be sufficient.
5. Chillies
Exotic, hot, spicy, and colorful– You can grow chilies on your kitchen windowsill. But only if it is sunny and warm. Also, the pot you use should be at least 8-10 inches deep. It’s fun and you’ll love your plants once they’ll start to flower and fruit. You can make your curry recipes spicier this way.
Also Read: How to Grow Banana Peppers
A Tip: Provide as much sun as possible and keep your eyes on pests.
6. Carrots
Growing carrot on a windowsill is possible and you can expect a decent homegrown harvest in small pots or window boxes. Carrot plants need regular watering, otherwise, the roots (carrots) will dry out and crack. Growing this root vegetable in containers is easy and it doesn’t take much space too. Read this to learn how to grow carrots in containers.
A Tip: Choose smaller varieties.
7. Sprouts
The healthiest stuff you can grow– Almost anywhere in your home, also on the windowsill. It is such a rewarding experience as they grow easily and quickly. All you need is a quart jar, a few tablespoons of sprouting seeds and water. In a week, you’ll have a jar full of healthy delicate sprouts that you can sprinkle on salads, add to sandwiches or toss into soups for a delicious and healthful twist on your favorite recipes.
A Tip: Just read these two articles– here and here.
8. Garlic
No need to teach you about the GARLIC glories! Let’s come to the point– Garlic will grow happily on your windowsill. To grow it, buy some fresh garlic from a grocery store. Plant a large, unpeeled clove with the pointed side up, in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a few days, you should see a green shoot. You can use its leaves in many recipes in place of garlic, will taste delicious. To harvest the leaves, cut them off with a sharp scissor, only a few inches at a time. When the leaves dry, dig up the soil to harvest the garlic bulbs.
A Tip: Choose at least 6 inches deep pot.
9. Microgreens
A big bowl of green leaves can be a prime source of vitamins A, C, K and folic acid. And microgreens (aka seedlings of herbs and vegetables) maybe even more nutrient-rich and tasty than the mature ones. Here is everything about growing microgreens.
A Tip: To grow microgreens you will need seeds of various greens and a wide but shallow tray.
10. Radishes
Radishes grow so fast and require little care and don’t mind the small pots. Plus, there leaves are also edible and you can prepare delicious exotic recipes from them. They need sunny windowsill and a moist soil.
A Tip: Ensure the pots you use have sufficient drainage holes and the potting soil must be well-drained and rich in organic matter.
11. Beans and Peas
Both the beans and peas can be grown on windowsills if there is space. Pole beans if planted in window boxes can be trained and supported by tying a string or wire from the planter to the window frame.
A Tip: Dwarf and bushier bean varieties and peas don’t require any special support, thus more suitable for windowsill gardening.
So what if you don’t have a big outdoor space to grow your own food, you can also grow your own fresh and organic vegetables in a small space– on your windowsill. Improvise and act, get some window boxes, hanging baskets or make some cool DIY containers.
Also Read: Windowsill Herb Garden
It’s fun and exciting and you’ll be successful if you care about a few things: Your window must receive minimum 4-5 hours of sunlight, you should fertilize your plants correctly and the balance in watering must be maintained (avoiding both overwatering and underwatering).
Also Read: How to Water Container Plants
1. Green Onions
Fresh green onions can be a wonderful and delicious addition to your salad bowls and sandwiches. In a small space like a windowsill, you can get enough harvest. You can even grow green onions in water. See the tutorial! If you want, you can try to grow onions, too. Also, vertically in plastic bottles. Check out this post.
A Tip: If you’re growing green onions in water, replace the water every day.
2. Loose Leaf Lettuce
After green onions growing lettuce is one of the easiest things in the windowsill gardening! It doesn’t require a sunny window, a few hours of sunlight is enough, if not, you can also use artificial light. And the best part is you can make decorative arrangements, combining red or green leaf lettuces in the same pot or choosing variegated ones.
A Tip: Wide-shallow containers are sufficient and provide you small crop. Learn how to grow lettuce in a pot here.
3. Tomatoes
Growing tomatoes on a windowsill is easy if it is sunny. A great way to grow and enjoy fresh, organic, juicy tomatoes indoors. For best results, choose dwarf varieties (cherry tomatoes, are perfect). Also, some varieties that grow well on windowsill includes Early Salad, Red Cushion, Pretty Patio and Tiny Tim.
Also Read: How to Grow So Many Tomatoes in So Little Space
A Tip: Cherry tomatoes don’t require a big deep pot, you can use a small to medium sized container. If you like to grow them in hanging baskets near your windows, it is possible too. Learn how to do this here.
4. Spinach
You can have your own spinach and you don’t need a big yard for this. You can grow it on a windowsill if it receives only a few hours of sun. Here’s the helpful guide on growing spinach in containers.
A Tip: Keep the soil slightly moist and provide shallow but wide planter, a 6 inches deep pot would be sufficient.
5. Chillies
Exotic, hot, spicy, and colorful– You can grow chilies on your kitchen windowsill. But only if it is sunny and warm. Also, the pot you use should be at least 8-10 inches deep. It’s fun and you’ll love your plants once they’ll start to flower and fruit. You can make your curry recipes spicier this way.
Also Read: How to Grow Banana Peppers
A Tip: Provide as much sun as possible and keep your eyes on pests.
6. Carrots
Growing carrot on a windowsill is possible and you can expect a decent homegrown harvest in small pots or window boxes. Carrot plants need regular watering, otherwise, the roots (carrots) will dry out and crack. Growing this root vegetable in containers is easy and it doesn’t take much space too. Read this to learn how to grow carrots in containers.
A Tip: Choose smaller varieties.
7. Sprouts
The healthiest stuff you can grow– Almost anywhere in your home, also on the windowsill. It is such a rewarding experience as they grow easily and quickly. All you need is a quart jar, a few tablespoons of sprouting seeds and water. In a week, you’ll have a jar full of healthy delicate sprouts that you can sprinkle on salads, add to sandwiches or toss into soups for a delicious and healthful twist on your favorite recipes.
A Tip: Just read these two articles– here and here.
8. Garlic
No need to teach you about the GARLIC glories! Let’s come to the point– Garlic will grow happily on your windowsill. To grow it, buy some fresh garlic from a grocery store. Plant a large, unpeeled clove with the pointed side up, in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a few days, you should see a green shoot. You can use its leaves in many recipes in place of garlic, will taste delicious. To harvest the leaves, cut them off with a sharp scissor, only a few inches at a time. When the leaves dry, dig up the soil to harvest the garlic bulbs.
A Tip: Choose at least 6 inches deep pot.
9. Microgreens
A big bowl of green leaves can be a prime source of vitamins A, C, K and folic acid. And microgreens (aka seedlings of herbs and vegetables) maybe even more nutrient-rich and tasty than the mature ones. Here is everything about growing microgreens.
A Tip: To grow microgreens you will need seeds of various greens and a wide but shallow tray.
10. Radishes
Radishes grow so fast and require little care and don’t mind the small pots. Plus, there leaves are also edible and you can prepare delicious exotic recipes from them. They need sunny windowsill and a moist soil.
A Tip: Ensure the pots you use have sufficient drainage holes and the potting soil must be well-drained and rich in organic matter.
11. Beans and Peas
Both the beans and peas can be grown on windowsills if there is space. Pole beans if planted in window boxes can be trained and supported by tying a string or wire from the planter to the window frame.
A Tip: Dwarf and bushier bean varieties and peas don’t require any special support, thus more suitable for windowsill gardening.
3
1
文章
扭扭
2017年05月23日
If you live in a city and have a small space (a balcony, rooftop, patio etc.) to grow plants, embrace vertical gardening. And with these 16 Vertical Gardening Ideas you can do this easily.Vertical Gardening Ideas for Small Urban Gardens1.
1. Vertical Lettuce Planter
If you love to grow lettuce, herbs or other green leafy vegetables, this project is for you. With minimal space and efforts, make this vertical planter. This simple project can be completed before lunchtime. Check out the tutorial on Bonnie Plants.
2. Vertical Pallet Planter
You can have different types of plants (herbs, salad greens or ornamentals) growing in a limited space you have, this way. Here are a few more ideas using pallets in the garden.
3. DIY Trellis Planter Holder
She had two trellises and she found an idea! Attaching them to the windows can make the dull wall interesting and she could save her plants (herbs) from her daughter who loved to pick and throw the leaves. Here’s what she had done!
You can do something similar in your balcony garden too.
4. Pallet Container Holder
Arrange a pallet board and hang several pots on it and place on your balcony, where it will receive some sun. It’s easy! And the best part is it will create plenty of vertical space.
5. DIY Stacked Planter.
This DIY stacked planter can spruce up any boring place of your garden. It is quick and easy to make and only requires 5 terracotta pots of different sizes, a few of your favorite plants, a center rod, and potting soil. Here is the tutorial.
6. Vertical Picture Frame Planter
A cool idea for your balcony garden to make it greener, you can also hang a wall planter like this in your room. See the step by step tutorial on our website.
7. Vertical Pot Holder From Pallet Planks
Dismantle a pallet board and separate the pallet planks; nail them on to the wall and fix the pots. Simple!
8. DIY Herb Planter
You can learn how to do this on Ginger Snap Crafts. They have used cedar boards and a few other items to build this.
9. Hanging Garden For Apartments
If you live in an apartment then every inch of space is precious for you and having a vertical hanging garden like this can greatly add more planting space to your urban container garden. To see the tutorial, visit this site.
10. Hanging Gutter Garden
If you have a small patio, balcony or roof garden, make a hanging gutter garden like this one, to grow a lot of plants. See more vertical garden ideas for Balcony.
11. Arrange shelves to keep pots
If possible arrange old shelves or something so that you can keep your pots there, this will also create a lot of space in your tiny garden.
12. Hanging Terracotta Planters
No problem if you don’t have a big outdoor area you can still create a lot of space with the help of vertical gardening. A tutorial is available here.
13. Cool Vertical Garden
Buy a cool vertical garden like this or if you have great DIY skills, make one for yourself. You can also arrange small but useful gardening tools and watering can in it.
14. Staircase Plant Stand
Perfect for city people who have balconies, roofs or terraces as an only outdoor space. You can keep containers on there and grow flowers or herbs.
15. Iron Grid Pot Holder
You can make a grid like this by welding the iron rods or weave them by any other method so that you’ll be able to hang the pots. You can paint that too in your favorite color. *The grid can also be made of wood.
16. Mason Jar Herb Garden
Have some mason jars and wooden boards? Make a herb garden like this. One of its kind tutorials is available here.
1. Vertical Lettuce Planter
If you love to grow lettuce, herbs or other green leafy vegetables, this project is for you. With minimal space and efforts, make this vertical planter. This simple project can be completed before lunchtime. Check out the tutorial on Bonnie Plants.
2. Vertical Pallet Planter
You can have different types of plants (herbs, salad greens or ornamentals) growing in a limited space you have, this way. Here are a few more ideas using pallets in the garden.
3. DIY Trellis Planter Holder
She had two trellises and she found an idea! Attaching them to the windows can make the dull wall interesting and she could save her plants (herbs) from her daughter who loved to pick and throw the leaves. Here’s what she had done!
You can do something similar in your balcony garden too.
4. Pallet Container Holder
Arrange a pallet board and hang several pots on it and place on your balcony, where it will receive some sun. It’s easy! And the best part is it will create plenty of vertical space.
5. DIY Stacked Planter.
This DIY stacked planter can spruce up any boring place of your garden. It is quick and easy to make and only requires 5 terracotta pots of different sizes, a few of your favorite plants, a center rod, and potting soil. Here is the tutorial.
6. Vertical Picture Frame Planter
A cool idea for your balcony garden to make it greener, you can also hang a wall planter like this in your room. See the step by step tutorial on our website.
7. Vertical Pot Holder From Pallet Planks
Dismantle a pallet board and separate the pallet planks; nail them on to the wall and fix the pots. Simple!
8. DIY Herb Planter
You can learn how to do this on Ginger Snap Crafts. They have used cedar boards and a few other items to build this.
9. Hanging Garden For Apartments
If you live in an apartment then every inch of space is precious for you and having a vertical hanging garden like this can greatly add more planting space to your urban container garden. To see the tutorial, visit this site.
10. Hanging Gutter Garden
If you have a small patio, balcony or roof garden, make a hanging gutter garden like this one, to grow a lot of plants. See more vertical garden ideas for Balcony.
11. Arrange shelves to keep pots
If possible arrange old shelves or something so that you can keep your pots there, this will also create a lot of space in your tiny garden.
12. Hanging Terracotta Planters
No problem if you don’t have a big outdoor area you can still create a lot of space with the help of vertical gardening. A tutorial is available here.
13. Cool Vertical Garden
Buy a cool vertical garden like this or if you have great DIY skills, make one for yourself. You can also arrange small but useful gardening tools and watering can in it.
14. Staircase Plant Stand
Perfect for city people who have balconies, roofs or terraces as an only outdoor space. You can keep containers on there and grow flowers or herbs.
15. Iron Grid Pot Holder
You can make a grid like this by welding the iron rods or weave them by any other method so that you’ll be able to hang the pots. You can paint that too in your favorite color. *The grid can also be made of wood.
16. Mason Jar Herb Garden
Have some mason jars and wooden boards? Make a herb garden like this. One of its kind tutorials is available here.
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文章
Eyin Thor
2017年05月23日
Growing eggplants in containers is not complicated, and if you’re a fan of grilling and oven broiling, you should grow this delicious and PRODUCTIVE vegetable.
Eggplant is a perennial tropical vegetable plant native to South and East Asia (namely, China and India) and a member of the tomato family. The plant loves heat and full sun and requires evenly moist soil in its native environment to thrive and fruit heavily.
These are the medium sized bushes, and nowadays a much more dwarf and compact cultivars are available for limited space gardeners. Similar to the other cousins of nightshade family e.g. tomatoes and peppers, it is possible to grow this vegetable in a container.
How to Grow Eggplants in Pots
Growing eggplants in pots is possible in two ways– Either start them using seeds or buy the seedlings from a nearby nursery or garden center. If you’re new to growing plants and have not grown them much– buy a few seedlings of your favorite eggplant variety. This will make things hassle free! If you’ve decided to germinate them from seeds, then that is also relatively easy.
Planting Time
Usually, in the spring, it’s the season when eggplant seedlings are transplanted on the ground when all the dangers of frost are passed. BUT container grown eggplants can be planted in summer and even in early fall, if you’re ready to move the pots here and there to control the temperature, especially during the nighttime when the temperature dips down. If you’re growing eggplants in a hot and warm frost-free climate, planting in winter is also possible.
Note that; this vegetable plant is more sensitive to low temperatures than tomatoes and peppers.Starting Eggplants from Seeds
Ensure you plant up to two seeds in each cell of a seedling tray or directly sow two seeds in each container. Remember, the eggplants require a lot of warmth for germination, more than tomatoes and peppers. Therefore, if you think the outdoors is not warm enough (temperature above 68 F (20 C) is good enough for eggplant seeds to germinate), you can place them indoors to kick start their growth, that’s the best of container gardening. Once they have sprouted and had up to four leaves, they can be transplanted into the desired containers.
Choosing a Pot
You’ll need a large container, depending on the cultivar, the larger the variety you’re growing, the larger the pot! Usually, the eggplant is relatively large, similar to a pepper plant or tomato so it requires a large pot which should be big enough for the capacity of five gallons, at least. In other words, use a pot that is at least 12 inches deep in size for each plant. If growing in a cooler region, choose a pot that retains heat. Here’s an informative article on choosing the best pot type for your container garden!
Requirements for Growing Eggplants in Containers
Position
Place the pots in a spot which has good air circulation and gets direct sunlight and some wind. This is because the eggplant requires a lot of warmth and sun exposure when growing. West or south facing direction is appropriate.
Soil
The eggplants require a lot of nutrients for growth and a neutral or slightly acidic soil in pH. Use soil that is rich in nutrients, most preferably loamy soilless potting mix. Eggplants thrive in the soil which has adequate and sufficient moisture so think about the moisture retaining capability of soil too. Therefore, you should also add a lot of compost or aged manure to the soil to enhance its capacity to retain water.
Watering
Eggplants love to grow in evenly moist soil, ensure you provide adequate moisture for them. Make sure the drainage is good to avoid root rot. Also, take care not to saturate the soil with too much water making it soggy.
Fertilizer
To provide ample nutrients for more productivity, you should apply fertilizer following the recommendations on the fertilizer bag. As eggplants are heavy feeders and need the fertilizer high in phosphorous, use the 5-10-5 fertilizer or other in a similar ratio, you can apply the balanced fertilizer, too. If required, spray on the leaves of your plants with liquid plant food, typically known as the foliar feeding.
Temperature
Once the plants are germinated and transplanted into the pots, provide them heat and try to keep them in the temperature above 50-54 F (10-12 C). If you’re growing eggplants in a warm climate, you don’t need to worry about temperature requirements much.
Eggplant Care
Pruning and Removing Suckers
Growing eggplant in a pot is not different than tomatoes, however, pruning it and picking the suckers is not necessary unlike TOMATOES but to improve productivity you can do this. When the plants are mature, you’ll need to look out for suckers to remove them. Yellowing or diseased leaves or branches growing tall and lanky and hindering the growth and productivity should be removed too.
Staking
As eggplant bush grows tall and its fruits are plump and heavy, you’ll need to tie your plants to the stake to support them. The most simple thing you can do is to thrust a stick in the pot and tie your plant to it, you can also use a cage to help the plant from falling.
Pests and Diseases
The most common pests for the eggplant is the black flea beetle, which feeds on the leaves of the plant, these insects are the common sight but if the plant is healthy, they won’t do any harm and also the aphids. One more common pest is the cutworm. This worm, as its name suggests, usually cuts the plant at its base. This can be prevented by using a cutworm collar or you can easily eliminate them by yourself. These pests can also be controlled using CHEMICAL pesticides, which we don’t recommend.
Eggplants grown in pots don’t get affected by diseases often. However, if you want, check out the list of eggplant diseases here!
Harvesting
The eggplant usually reaches maturity after two to three months after planting, to say more clearly, in 60-80 days, depending more the type of variety you’re growing and the climate. At around this time, the plant starts to produce fruits which grow to become glossy when fully mature.
Eggplant is a perennial tropical vegetable plant native to South and East Asia (namely, China and India) and a member of the tomato family. The plant loves heat and full sun and requires evenly moist soil in its native environment to thrive and fruit heavily.
These are the medium sized bushes, and nowadays a much more dwarf and compact cultivars are available for limited space gardeners. Similar to the other cousins of nightshade family e.g. tomatoes and peppers, it is possible to grow this vegetable in a container.
How to Grow Eggplants in Pots
Growing eggplants in pots is possible in two ways– Either start them using seeds or buy the seedlings from a nearby nursery or garden center. If you’re new to growing plants and have not grown them much– buy a few seedlings of your favorite eggplant variety. This will make things hassle free! If you’ve decided to germinate them from seeds, then that is also relatively easy.
Planting Time
Usually, in the spring, it’s the season when eggplant seedlings are transplanted on the ground when all the dangers of frost are passed. BUT container grown eggplants can be planted in summer and even in early fall, if you’re ready to move the pots here and there to control the temperature, especially during the nighttime when the temperature dips down. If you’re growing eggplants in a hot and warm frost-free climate, planting in winter is also possible.
Note that; this vegetable plant is more sensitive to low temperatures than tomatoes and peppers.Starting Eggplants from Seeds
Ensure you plant up to two seeds in each cell of a seedling tray or directly sow two seeds in each container. Remember, the eggplants require a lot of warmth for germination, more than tomatoes and peppers. Therefore, if you think the outdoors is not warm enough (temperature above 68 F (20 C) is good enough for eggplant seeds to germinate), you can place them indoors to kick start their growth, that’s the best of container gardening. Once they have sprouted and had up to four leaves, they can be transplanted into the desired containers.
Choosing a Pot
You’ll need a large container, depending on the cultivar, the larger the variety you’re growing, the larger the pot! Usually, the eggplant is relatively large, similar to a pepper plant or tomato so it requires a large pot which should be big enough for the capacity of five gallons, at least. In other words, use a pot that is at least 12 inches deep in size for each plant. If growing in a cooler region, choose a pot that retains heat. Here’s an informative article on choosing the best pot type for your container garden!
Requirements for Growing Eggplants in Containers
Position
Place the pots in a spot which has good air circulation and gets direct sunlight and some wind. This is because the eggplant requires a lot of warmth and sun exposure when growing. West or south facing direction is appropriate.
Soil
The eggplants require a lot of nutrients for growth and a neutral or slightly acidic soil in pH. Use soil that is rich in nutrients, most preferably loamy soilless potting mix. Eggplants thrive in the soil which has adequate and sufficient moisture so think about the moisture retaining capability of soil too. Therefore, you should also add a lot of compost or aged manure to the soil to enhance its capacity to retain water.
Watering
Eggplants love to grow in evenly moist soil, ensure you provide adequate moisture for them. Make sure the drainage is good to avoid root rot. Also, take care not to saturate the soil with too much water making it soggy.
Fertilizer
To provide ample nutrients for more productivity, you should apply fertilizer following the recommendations on the fertilizer bag. As eggplants are heavy feeders and need the fertilizer high in phosphorous, use the 5-10-5 fertilizer or other in a similar ratio, you can apply the balanced fertilizer, too. If required, spray on the leaves of your plants with liquid plant food, typically known as the foliar feeding.
Temperature
Once the plants are germinated and transplanted into the pots, provide them heat and try to keep them in the temperature above 50-54 F (10-12 C). If you’re growing eggplants in a warm climate, you don’t need to worry about temperature requirements much.
Eggplant Care
Pruning and Removing Suckers
Growing eggplant in a pot is not different than tomatoes, however, pruning it and picking the suckers is not necessary unlike TOMATOES but to improve productivity you can do this. When the plants are mature, you’ll need to look out for suckers to remove them. Yellowing or diseased leaves or branches growing tall and lanky and hindering the growth and productivity should be removed too.
Staking
As eggplant bush grows tall and its fruits are plump and heavy, you’ll need to tie your plants to the stake to support them. The most simple thing you can do is to thrust a stick in the pot and tie your plant to it, you can also use a cage to help the plant from falling.
Pests and Diseases
The most common pests for the eggplant is the black flea beetle, which feeds on the leaves of the plant, these insects are the common sight but if the plant is healthy, they won’t do any harm and also the aphids. One more common pest is the cutworm. This worm, as its name suggests, usually cuts the plant at its base. This can be prevented by using a cutworm collar or you can easily eliminate them by yourself. These pests can also be controlled using CHEMICAL pesticides, which we don’t recommend.
Eggplants grown in pots don’t get affected by diseases often. However, if you want, check out the list of eggplant diseases here!
Harvesting
The eggplant usually reaches maturity after two to three months after planting, to say more clearly, in 60-80 days, depending more the type of variety you’re growing and the climate. At around this time, the plant starts to produce fruits which grow to become glossy when fully mature.
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文章
扭扭
2017年05月23日
Learn how to make a vertical succulent wall planter in a few steps without spending money. You don’t need to be a great DIYer to have this DIY succulent frame in your home.
Succulents are easiest plants to grow on earth. They are not demanding and most of them grow in severe conditions, plus they come in different colors, sizes, and shapes. All this makes them perfect for vertical gardening.
Things you’ll need to make DIY succulent wall planter
SucculentA tape to measureChicken wireA hammerNailsA pencil or MarkerGlueSpecial potting mix for cacti and succulentsMore succulents4 equal size thick sticks or frame moulding to make frameMoss (Optional)A piece of board (plywood or something else) to adhere behind the frame.Staple gun or whatever you find easily to attach the chicken wire to the frame.Pincer or wire cutter to cut wiresSteps to Follow
Step 1
Make a frame by joining the pieces of wood. (See the photo above)
Step 2
Measure and cut the plyboard or picture frame board to cover the frame from behind according to the dimensions of the frame. Once you join it to the frame with nails and glue, stick a plastic bag or film over it. To make your vertical succulent wall waterproof.
Step 3
Evenly spread the soil in your frame. Stop filling just before the soil reaches the edge of the frame.
Step 4
Before fixing the chicken wire on your succulent wall planter, distribute moss over the soil (optional) and put succulents to see and adjust them according to colors, shapes and sizes. This is fun! Once you have found the ideal location for your small plants, remove them again.
Step 5
Attach the chicken wire using a staple gun on the edges of the frame. You can skip this step if you want but chicken wire is used to support the succulents and soil.
Step 6
Now plant the succulents. Skip this step if you are planting them from cuttings but if you are planting potted succulents you may need to cut chicken wire mesh to create a few small planting holes to transplant succulents with the help of a pincer or wire cutter.
Step 7
Poke holes in the soil and then gently tuck the plants in and close the hole and mist the soil to moisten it.
Wait a few days before hanging your DIY succulent wall planter or putting it vertically until the plants recover and establish well.
How to Care for Succulent Wall PlanterPosition
Keep the succulent wall planter on a table, near a windowsill, in your living room, somewhere where it will receive some sun or indirect sunlight. You can also hang it on the wall but for this, you’ll need to attach a picture hanger to your frame.
Watering
Spray water on your vertical succulent wall to keep the soil slightly moist in the next few days. Once established water only when the substrate is slightly dry. Be attentive to it and observe when the plants need water.
Soil
Right kind of soil is the key as you’re growing plants vertically in a too small space. Use succulent potting mix for this.
Succulents are easiest plants to grow on earth. They are not demanding and most of them grow in severe conditions, plus they come in different colors, sizes, and shapes. All this makes them perfect for vertical gardening.
Things you’ll need to make DIY succulent wall planter
SucculentA tape to measureChicken wireA hammerNailsA pencil or MarkerGlueSpecial potting mix for cacti and succulentsMore succulents4 equal size thick sticks or frame moulding to make frameMoss (Optional)A piece of board (plywood or something else) to adhere behind the frame.Staple gun or whatever you find easily to attach the chicken wire to the frame.Pincer or wire cutter to cut wiresSteps to Follow
Step 1
Make a frame by joining the pieces of wood. (See the photo above)
Step 2
Measure and cut the plyboard or picture frame board to cover the frame from behind according to the dimensions of the frame. Once you join it to the frame with nails and glue, stick a plastic bag or film over it. To make your vertical succulent wall waterproof.
Step 3
Evenly spread the soil in your frame. Stop filling just before the soil reaches the edge of the frame.
Step 4
Before fixing the chicken wire on your succulent wall planter, distribute moss over the soil (optional) and put succulents to see and adjust them according to colors, shapes and sizes. This is fun! Once you have found the ideal location for your small plants, remove them again.
Step 5
Attach the chicken wire using a staple gun on the edges of the frame. You can skip this step if you want but chicken wire is used to support the succulents and soil.
Step 6
Now plant the succulents. Skip this step if you are planting them from cuttings but if you are planting potted succulents you may need to cut chicken wire mesh to create a few small planting holes to transplant succulents with the help of a pincer or wire cutter.
Step 7
Poke holes in the soil and then gently tuck the plants in and close the hole and mist the soil to moisten it.
Wait a few days before hanging your DIY succulent wall planter or putting it vertically until the plants recover and establish well.
How to Care for Succulent Wall PlanterPosition
Keep the succulent wall planter on a table, near a windowsill, in your living room, somewhere where it will receive some sun or indirect sunlight. You can also hang it on the wall but for this, you’ll need to attach a picture hanger to your frame.
Watering
Spray water on your vertical succulent wall to keep the soil slightly moist in the next few days. Once established water only when the substrate is slightly dry. Be attentive to it and observe when the plants need water.
Soil
Right kind of soil is the key as you’re growing plants vertically in a too small space. Use succulent potting mix for this.
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0
文章
扭扭
2017年05月23日
Learn growing tomatoes in hanging basket if you have a balcony garden, this way they’ll not take much space.
Tomatoes require lot of space to grow and if you have a small garden, growing them in hanging basket is an apt way to use vertical space, plus they adapt easily unlike other vegetables.
Juicy, plump, small, big, round and colorful tomatoes are one of the most favorite crops, whether you have a garden or not you can grow them in hanging baskets.
Growing Tomatoes in Hanging Baskets
Your success in growing tomatoes depends on three factors— yours choosing right variety, basket and providing it appropriate conditions, if you satisfy all of the three, you’ll get rich home grown tomatoes in harvesting season.
Choosing Right Tomato Variety
You can’t grow regular tomato plants. Varieties of cherry tomatoes do well in hanging baskets— ‘hundreds and thousands’ (UK variety) is highly productive and its mini tomatoes taste great, plant grows bush like and spread well. Other varieties like Tumbling Tom (both red and yellow) provides classic tomato taste and most recommended, whereas deep red Maskotka gives juicy flavor and fruit heavily.
Choosing a Basket
Take a *deep basket of diameter 12” as these varieties don’t need bigger pots. Line your basket with plastic or coconut fiber liners. However, it’s better to line it with plastic. For this, make some drainage holes in plastic and place it inside the basket, make sure to spread it properly. As hanging baskets dry out quickly, lining them helps to keep the moisture in soil.
Check out this self watering hanging basket on amazon. Its unique wick system draws the moisture up into the soil, allowing the plant to feed at its’ own rate. The best thing is, it is of only $14.7.
Tomatoes require lot of space to grow and if you have a small garden, growing them in hanging basket is an apt way to use vertical space, plus they adapt easily unlike other vegetables.
Juicy, plump, small, big, round and colorful tomatoes are one of the most favorite crops, whether you have a garden or not you can grow them in hanging baskets.
Growing Tomatoes in Hanging Baskets
Your success in growing tomatoes depends on three factors— yours choosing right variety, basket and providing it appropriate conditions, if you satisfy all of the three, you’ll get rich home grown tomatoes in harvesting season.
Choosing Right Tomato Variety
You can’t grow regular tomato plants. Varieties of cherry tomatoes do well in hanging baskets— ‘hundreds and thousands’ (UK variety) is highly productive and its mini tomatoes taste great, plant grows bush like and spread well. Other varieties like Tumbling Tom (both red and yellow) provides classic tomato taste and most recommended, whereas deep red Maskotka gives juicy flavor and fruit heavily.
Choosing a Basket
Take a *deep basket of diameter 12” as these varieties don’t need bigger pots. Line your basket with plastic or coconut fiber liners. However, it’s better to line it with plastic. For this, make some drainage holes in plastic and place it inside the basket, make sure to spread it properly. As hanging baskets dry out quickly, lining them helps to keep the moisture in soil.
Check out this self watering hanging basket on amazon. Its unique wick system draws the moisture up into the soil, allowing the plant to feed at its’ own rate. The best thing is, it is of only $14.7.
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文章
lenny
2017年05月23日
Container vegetable gardening allows you to cultivate edibles in smallest of spaces and in this article you’ll find out easy container vegetables which you can grow on your balcony or rooftop garden.
Easy Container Vegetables
Beans
Most of the beans are climbers and really easy to grow. You can grow them on your balcony or rooftop garden on a trellis near a wall and within weeks, you will get a green wall of a climber running up through soft tendrils over the trellis. For growing beans you will need a spot that receives the sun in abundance, a pot that is minimum 12 inches deep and a trellis like structure for support. Since beans fix the nitrogen most of the vegetables that require more nitrogen are good to grow with them. If you’re growing beans in a very large pot you can grow summer savory, kale, and celery in the base.
Tomatoes
Without a doubt, tomatoes are easiest to grow. If you receive ample sun (at least 5-6 hours) you can grow tomatoes. For this, choose a large pot that is 12 inches deep. On a limited space, growing dwarf varieties of determinate type are best. You should also try cherry tomatoes for higher yield. Read our article on growing tomatoes on a balcony.
Lettuce
Growing lettuce in pots is easy. It grows up quickly and you will have the opportunity to harvest repeatedly. Lettuce is a cool season crop and you have to decide what is the right time for its growth according to your climate, usually, seeds are started in spring. But if you live in warm climate, grow lettuce in winter.
For growing lettuce, choose a wide planter rather than deep (6″ deep is enough). Leave space of 4-7 inches between each plant. Remember, leaf lettuces can be grown more closely than head lettuces. Use well draining soil and do shallow and frequent watering to keep the soil slightly moist.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are one of the easy container vegetables though it requires regular watering, full sun, warm temperature and fertilizer. If you have some space, instead of growing dwarf and bushier varieties grow tall, climbing varieties for higher yield. You can grow these varieties on a trellis in a large container in barely 1-2 sqft. of space. To know more about growing cucumbers vertically read our post.
Peppers and Chilies
After tomatoes, peppers and chilies are easiest to grow in containers and they are most productive too. If you keep the pot in a sunny spot and provide right soil and fertilizer at the time the plant will fruit prolifically. The Large and deep pot that is minimum 12 inches deep is optimum. Pepper plants are susceptible to pests. You will have to keep an eye on aphids.
Carrots
Sow the seeds of carrot varieties that are short instead of standard as they require more room to grow their roots. Choose containers that are deep enough (12″). Carrots are easy to grow in pots if you choose a right variety. Keep the plant in partial sun and water it regularly to keep the soil slightly moist, avoid overwatering. Also, carrots are susceptible to mildew so don’t wet the foliage.
Radishes
Radishes are one of the quickest growing vegetables and suitable for container vegetable gardening as you can also grow them in small pots. A planter that is 6 inches deep is enough but if you are growing larger varieties use 10 inches deep pot. You can plant radishes closely, allow 3 inches of space between each plant in a wide container. Radishes are ready for the harvest in 24-60 days, depending on the variety.
Peas
Peas require moist soil and cool to moderate weather to thrive. All varieties are suitable for container gardening but dwarf bushier varieties are better. A pot that is 6-12 inches deep is enough. You can grow 4-6 plants in a 12 inches wide and deep container, it depends more on the variety you are growing. Keep the potted plants in the partial sun if reach to full sunlight is not possible.
Eggplant
Most of the vegetables grow fairly easy in standard size 5-gallon pot. For growing eggplant, choose a one foot deep and wide pot to provide sufficient space. Eggplant is very productive
vegetable and fruits heavily if you provide it at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Also, it is a heavy feeder like tomatoes, thus requires regular fertilizing. You have to provide support to plant by staking or caging. Simply poke a stick in the pot to help the plant when it starts to look lean.
Beets
Growing beets in containers on a balcony or terrace is easy. It is a fast growing crop and you don’t need a large container for planting it. A medium sized container that is 6-8 inches deep is sufficient. The soil you use must be permeable and rich in compost.
A Tip
Do mulching, it also helps in container vegetable gardening. Mulch the surface of your potted vegetables with organic matter. It will reduce the process of evaporation and after the decomposition, the organic mulch will provide nutrition to plants.
Easy Container Vegetables
Beans
Most of the beans are climbers and really easy to grow. You can grow them on your balcony or rooftop garden on a trellis near a wall and within weeks, you will get a green wall of a climber running up through soft tendrils over the trellis. For growing beans you will need a spot that receives the sun in abundance, a pot that is minimum 12 inches deep and a trellis like structure for support. Since beans fix the nitrogen most of the vegetables that require more nitrogen are good to grow with them. If you’re growing beans in a very large pot you can grow summer savory, kale, and celery in the base.
Tomatoes
Without a doubt, tomatoes are easiest to grow. If you receive ample sun (at least 5-6 hours) you can grow tomatoes. For this, choose a large pot that is 12 inches deep. On a limited space, growing dwarf varieties of determinate type are best. You should also try cherry tomatoes for higher yield. Read our article on growing tomatoes on a balcony.
Lettuce
Growing lettuce in pots is easy. It grows up quickly and you will have the opportunity to harvest repeatedly. Lettuce is a cool season crop and you have to decide what is the right time for its growth according to your climate, usually, seeds are started in spring. But if you live in warm climate, grow lettuce in winter.
For growing lettuce, choose a wide planter rather than deep (6″ deep is enough). Leave space of 4-7 inches between each plant. Remember, leaf lettuces can be grown more closely than head lettuces. Use well draining soil and do shallow and frequent watering to keep the soil slightly moist.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are one of the easy container vegetables though it requires regular watering, full sun, warm temperature and fertilizer. If you have some space, instead of growing dwarf and bushier varieties grow tall, climbing varieties for higher yield. You can grow these varieties on a trellis in a large container in barely 1-2 sqft. of space. To know more about growing cucumbers vertically read our post.
Peppers and Chilies
After tomatoes, peppers and chilies are easiest to grow in containers and they are most productive too. If you keep the pot in a sunny spot and provide right soil and fertilizer at the time the plant will fruit prolifically. The Large and deep pot that is minimum 12 inches deep is optimum. Pepper plants are susceptible to pests. You will have to keep an eye on aphids.
Carrots
Sow the seeds of carrot varieties that are short instead of standard as they require more room to grow their roots. Choose containers that are deep enough (12″). Carrots are easy to grow in pots if you choose a right variety. Keep the plant in partial sun and water it regularly to keep the soil slightly moist, avoid overwatering. Also, carrots are susceptible to mildew so don’t wet the foliage.
Radishes
Radishes are one of the quickest growing vegetables and suitable for container vegetable gardening as you can also grow them in small pots. A planter that is 6 inches deep is enough but if you are growing larger varieties use 10 inches deep pot. You can plant radishes closely, allow 3 inches of space between each plant in a wide container. Radishes are ready for the harvest in 24-60 days, depending on the variety.
Peas
Peas require moist soil and cool to moderate weather to thrive. All varieties are suitable for container gardening but dwarf bushier varieties are better. A pot that is 6-12 inches deep is enough. You can grow 4-6 plants in a 12 inches wide and deep container, it depends more on the variety you are growing. Keep the potted plants in the partial sun if reach to full sunlight is not possible.
Eggplant
Most of the vegetables grow fairly easy in standard size 5-gallon pot. For growing eggplant, choose a one foot deep and wide pot to provide sufficient space. Eggplant is very productive
vegetable and fruits heavily if you provide it at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Also, it is a heavy feeder like tomatoes, thus requires regular fertilizing. You have to provide support to plant by staking or caging. Simply poke a stick in the pot to help the plant when it starts to look lean.
Beets
Growing beets in containers on a balcony or terrace is easy. It is a fast growing crop and you don’t need a large container for planting it. A medium sized container that is 6-8 inches deep is sufficient. The soil you use must be permeable and rich in compost.
A Tip
Do mulching, it also helps in container vegetable gardening. Mulch the surface of your potted vegetables with organic matter. It will reduce the process of evaporation and after the decomposition, the organic mulch will provide nutrition to plants.
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文章
lenny
2017年05月23日
Growing vegetables in containers is possible but there are some that grow easily and produce heavily in containers. Due to this we’ve added 20 Best and Most Productive Vegetables to grow in pots.
The productivity of a small garden also improves when you utilize the vertical space. Using trellis to provide support to trailing plants and vines always helps.
Best Vegetables to Grow in Pots1. Tomatoes
Without a doubt, tomatoes are the most productive vegetables you can grow in pots. Tomatoes need ample sun (5-6 hours minimum). The pot size depends on the type of tomatoes you are growing. In containers, growing dwarf varieties of determinate type is best. You should also try cherry tomatoes for higher yield.
2. Beans
Most of the beans are climbers or bushier type and they grow upward. They are productive in pots and are easy to grow. You can grow them on a trellis near a wall and within weeks, you will get a green wall of beans running across the trellis. For growing beans you need a sunny place, and a pot that is minimum 12 inches deep (the bigger the better) and a strong trellis like structure for support. Since beans fix the nitrogen most of the vegetables that require more nitrogen are good to grow underneath them. If you’re growing beans in a very large pot you can grow summer savory, kale, or celery with them.
3. Lettuce
Lettuce grows up quickly and you will have the opportunity to harvest them multiple times throughout the growing season. As lettuce is a cool season crop, you’ll have to decide what is the right time for its growth according to your climate, usually, seeds are started in spring. But if you live in a warm climate, grow lettuce in winter.
For growing lettuce, choose a wide planter rather than deep (6″ deep is enough). When planting, make sure to leave space of at least 4 inches between each plant. Remember, leaf lettuces can be grown more closely than head lettuces. Use well draining soil and do shallow and frequent watering to keep the soil slightly moist always.
4. Peppers and Chillies
Peppers and chillies are super productive and excellent candidates for growing in containers. They look great in pots and need a sunny and warm place to thrive. If you keep the pot in a sunny spot and provide right soil and fertilize the plant time to time it will fruit heavily. A large pot that is atleast 12 inches deep is optimum.
5. Radishes
Radishes are one of the quickest growing vegetables and suitable for container vegetable gardening as you can also grow them in small and wide pots. A planter that is just 6 inches deep is enough but if you want to grow larger varieties use 8-10 inches deep pot. Allow 3 inches of space between each plant.
6. Asian Greens
Asian greens are great crops to grow in pots as they grow fast and don’t need a lot of sun. You can grow them in shade in a spot that receives 3-4 hours of morning sun. Providing them plenty of moisture and organic fertilizer is important so that they thrive.
7. Spinach
Spinach is one of the best vegetables for containers. It grows well in partial shade and in any kind of space. Growing spinach in containers is easy too you can even grow it indoors on a windowsill. For growing spinach in pots, choose a pot that is least 6-8 inches deep. You don’t need a very deep pot rather use a wide one. Learn how to grow spinach in pots here.
8. Peas
Peas prefer moderate conditions, they are a perfect crop for container gardening and don’t require a large pot. They grow quickly without attention. You can even grow peas on a balcony. Choose a dwarf or bushier type varieties and do regular and frequent watering as peas prefer slightly moist soil. Keep the plants in a spot that receives full sun to part sun (especially in warm climates).
9. Carrots
Carrots grow best in cool weather. Carrot plants need regular watering, otherwise the roots dry out and crack. Growing this plant in containers is easy and it doesn’t take much space too.
10. Cucumber
Cucumbers are heavy feeders and require regular watering too. Grow them in a medium to large sized pot (depending on the variety) and in full sun. You can have your homegrown successful crunchy cucumbers within a few months. To learn more about growing cucumbers read this article.
11. Eggplant
Although eggplants are susceptible to many garden pests, still growing them is easy. They are heat-loving plants and need high temperatures both day and night, thus a suitable summer crop. But if you live in a warm climate you can grow it year round.
Also, it is easier to maintain them in containers than in a large vegetable garden. It is necessary that you keep the pots in a full sun and feed heavily (like all other plants from tomato family– peppers, tomatoes, potatoes; eggplants are heavy feeders too).
12. Squash
Squashes are easy to grow plants. Summer squashes (Zucchini) are more productive than winter squashes. You can harvest bountiful even in containers. It is one of the most suitable crops for rooftop, balcony or patio gardeners.
The productivity of a small garden also improves when you utilize the vertical space. Using trellis to provide support to trailing plants and vines always helps.
Best Vegetables to Grow in Pots1. Tomatoes
Without a doubt, tomatoes are the most productive vegetables you can grow in pots. Tomatoes need ample sun (5-6 hours minimum). The pot size depends on the type of tomatoes you are growing. In containers, growing dwarf varieties of determinate type is best. You should also try cherry tomatoes for higher yield.
2. Beans
Most of the beans are climbers or bushier type and they grow upward. They are productive in pots and are easy to grow. You can grow them on a trellis near a wall and within weeks, you will get a green wall of beans running across the trellis. For growing beans you need a sunny place, and a pot that is minimum 12 inches deep (the bigger the better) and a strong trellis like structure for support. Since beans fix the nitrogen most of the vegetables that require more nitrogen are good to grow underneath them. If you’re growing beans in a very large pot you can grow summer savory, kale, or celery with them.
3. Lettuce
Lettuce grows up quickly and you will have the opportunity to harvest them multiple times throughout the growing season. As lettuce is a cool season crop, you’ll have to decide what is the right time for its growth according to your climate, usually, seeds are started in spring. But if you live in a warm climate, grow lettuce in winter.
For growing lettuce, choose a wide planter rather than deep (6″ deep is enough). When planting, make sure to leave space of at least 4 inches between each plant. Remember, leaf lettuces can be grown more closely than head lettuces. Use well draining soil and do shallow and frequent watering to keep the soil slightly moist always.
4. Peppers and Chillies
Peppers and chillies are super productive and excellent candidates for growing in containers. They look great in pots and need a sunny and warm place to thrive. If you keep the pot in a sunny spot and provide right soil and fertilize the plant time to time it will fruit heavily. A large pot that is atleast 12 inches deep is optimum.
5. Radishes
Radishes are one of the quickest growing vegetables and suitable for container vegetable gardening as you can also grow them in small and wide pots. A planter that is just 6 inches deep is enough but if you want to grow larger varieties use 8-10 inches deep pot. Allow 3 inches of space between each plant.
6. Asian Greens
Asian greens are great crops to grow in pots as they grow fast and don’t need a lot of sun. You can grow them in shade in a spot that receives 3-4 hours of morning sun. Providing them plenty of moisture and organic fertilizer is important so that they thrive.
7. Spinach
Spinach is one of the best vegetables for containers. It grows well in partial shade and in any kind of space. Growing spinach in containers is easy too you can even grow it indoors on a windowsill. For growing spinach in pots, choose a pot that is least 6-8 inches deep. You don’t need a very deep pot rather use a wide one. Learn how to grow spinach in pots here.
8. Peas
Peas prefer moderate conditions, they are a perfect crop for container gardening and don’t require a large pot. They grow quickly without attention. You can even grow peas on a balcony. Choose a dwarf or bushier type varieties and do regular and frequent watering as peas prefer slightly moist soil. Keep the plants in a spot that receives full sun to part sun (especially in warm climates).
9. Carrots
Carrots grow best in cool weather. Carrot plants need regular watering, otherwise the roots dry out and crack. Growing this plant in containers is easy and it doesn’t take much space too.
10. Cucumber
Cucumbers are heavy feeders and require regular watering too. Grow them in a medium to large sized pot (depending on the variety) and in full sun. You can have your homegrown successful crunchy cucumbers within a few months. To learn more about growing cucumbers read this article.
11. Eggplant
Although eggplants are susceptible to many garden pests, still growing them is easy. They are heat-loving plants and need high temperatures both day and night, thus a suitable summer crop. But if you live in a warm climate you can grow it year round.
Also, it is easier to maintain them in containers than in a large vegetable garden. It is necessary that you keep the pots in a full sun and feed heavily (like all other plants from tomato family– peppers, tomatoes, potatoes; eggplants are heavy feeders too).
12. Squash
Squashes are easy to grow plants. Summer squashes (Zucchini) are more productive than winter squashes. You can harvest bountiful even in containers. It is one of the most suitable crops for rooftop, balcony or patio gardeners.
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文章
Carol
2017年05月23日
If you love to have a tropical garden like setup and you live in a cold climate then grow these cold hardy tropical plants to create a tropical garden in a cold climate.
The best thing about the plants we’ve listed here is that most of them can be grown in containers too.
Cold Hardy Tropical PlantsBamboos
Bamboos grow best in warm tropical climate but there are many cold hardy varieties available that you can try under USDA Zones 5-9. To find out the cultivars check out this post on Gardening Know How.
Colocasia
Colocasia “Pink China” is one of the hardiest varieties. You can grow it in cold climate down to USDA zones 7 and even zone 6 outdoors on the ground. On the onset of winter mulch heavily with organic matter around the roots of the plant and keep the soil little dry to overwinter it.
Hibiscus
The reason behind the popularity of hibiscus is they are easy to grow and successfully thrive not only in tropics but also in cooler regions. Cold hardy hibiscus hybrids are grown as far north as zone 4. American Meadows has hibiscus varieties for you.
Bird of Paradise
Grow giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia Nicolai) to add drama to your garden. It will give you a real tropical feel. However, bird of paradise grows best in subtropical and tropical climate (USDA Zones 9-11) and you’ll need to grow it in a pot if you live in a temperate region.
Palms
Needle palm, windmill palm, sago palm are grown in cold climates. Here’s a list of hardiest palms to check.
Canna
Canna can be grown in pots and on the ground easily. Probably they are one of the easiest tropical plants that you can grow. Growing canna will provide you a great foliage show and gaudy flowers and to get that all you have to do is to mulch heavily around the base in winter. You can try growing canna down to USDA Zone 6.
Hardy Banana (Musa basjoo)
Banana trees add a tropical touch to any garden. You can even grow them in containers. This cold hardy banana cultivar called “Musa basjoo” can be grown in USDA Zones 5-11.
Hostas
Hostas are great groundcover with the foliage that comes in a variety of shades, they look nice. Grow them in USDA Zones 3-10 in shade or partial shade and provide regular watering.
Ferns
Ferns can be a great addition to your garden to give it a tropical look. Some of the most cold hardy ferns that you can grow are Western maidenhair fern, Lady fern, Christmas fern, Western sword fern, and Common polypody.
Agapanthus
A beautiful and tough herbaceous perennial that grows in tropics and can be grown in temperates too. Introduce agapanthus in your garden to add a touch of blue-violet flowers and lush strap-like foliage. It is suitable for containers and borders.
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a very common plant in tropics. It is a sturdy perennial with lovely paper like flowers. However, bougainvillea is not as cold hardy as agapanthus but you can grow it in containers and move it inside in winters.
Yucca
Beaked Yucca (Yucca Rostrata) is the best cold hardy yucca that you can grow outside in cold climates. It grows well in USDA Zones 5-11. To overwinter it, protection from moisture must be provided in the winters in the cooler zones.
Mandevilla
In tropics, flowering vines grow in abundance. Bougainvillea, passiflora, Mandevilla, jasmine are a few names. Mandevilla is definitely not a cold hardy plant but you can overwinter it indoors by growing it in the container.
Japanese silver grass
Japanese silver grass grows well in cool temperate regions in USDA zones 5-9. It is a tropical looking plant that can be a wonderful addition to your garden.
The best thing about the plants we’ve listed here is that most of them can be grown in containers too.
Cold Hardy Tropical PlantsBamboos
Bamboos grow best in warm tropical climate but there are many cold hardy varieties available that you can try under USDA Zones 5-9. To find out the cultivars check out this post on Gardening Know How.
Colocasia
Colocasia “Pink China” is one of the hardiest varieties. You can grow it in cold climate down to USDA zones 7 and even zone 6 outdoors on the ground. On the onset of winter mulch heavily with organic matter around the roots of the plant and keep the soil little dry to overwinter it.
Hibiscus
The reason behind the popularity of hibiscus is they are easy to grow and successfully thrive not only in tropics but also in cooler regions. Cold hardy hibiscus hybrids are grown as far north as zone 4. American Meadows has hibiscus varieties for you.
Bird of Paradise
Grow giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia Nicolai) to add drama to your garden. It will give you a real tropical feel. However, bird of paradise grows best in subtropical and tropical climate (USDA Zones 9-11) and you’ll need to grow it in a pot if you live in a temperate region.
Palms
Needle palm, windmill palm, sago palm are grown in cold climates. Here’s a list of hardiest palms to check.
Canna
Canna can be grown in pots and on the ground easily. Probably they are one of the easiest tropical plants that you can grow. Growing canna will provide you a great foliage show and gaudy flowers and to get that all you have to do is to mulch heavily around the base in winter. You can try growing canna down to USDA Zone 6.
Hardy Banana (Musa basjoo)
Banana trees add a tropical touch to any garden. You can even grow them in containers. This cold hardy banana cultivar called “Musa basjoo” can be grown in USDA Zones 5-11.
Hostas
Hostas are great groundcover with the foliage that comes in a variety of shades, they look nice. Grow them in USDA Zones 3-10 in shade or partial shade and provide regular watering.
Ferns
Ferns can be a great addition to your garden to give it a tropical look. Some of the most cold hardy ferns that you can grow are Western maidenhair fern, Lady fern, Christmas fern, Western sword fern, and Common polypody.
Agapanthus
A beautiful and tough herbaceous perennial that grows in tropics and can be grown in temperates too. Introduce agapanthus in your garden to add a touch of blue-violet flowers and lush strap-like foliage. It is suitable for containers and borders.
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a very common plant in tropics. It is a sturdy perennial with lovely paper like flowers. However, bougainvillea is not as cold hardy as agapanthus but you can grow it in containers and move it inside in winters.
Yucca
Beaked Yucca (Yucca Rostrata) is the best cold hardy yucca that you can grow outside in cold climates. It grows well in USDA Zones 5-11. To overwinter it, protection from moisture must be provided in the winters in the cooler zones.
Mandevilla
In tropics, flowering vines grow in abundance. Bougainvillea, passiflora, Mandevilla, jasmine are a few names. Mandevilla is definitely not a cold hardy plant but you can overwinter it indoors by growing it in the container.
Japanese silver grass
Japanese silver grass grows well in cool temperate regions in USDA zones 5-9. It is a tropical looking plant that can be a wonderful addition to your garden.
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文章
Carol
2017年05月23日
Learn about the Feng Shui plants and how to make a Feng Shui garden in this informative article. You can also make changes in your existing garden according to the feng shui.
Start with the parts of your garden you would like to change, grow the Feng Shui plants there and apply the principles given below and see how it works.
What is Feng Shui
Feng Shui is an art of reaching harmony in life, a practice that comes from the China. It is believed that if a place (home, garden, office or anywhere) is arranged according to the Feng Shui guidelines it remains, prosperous, peaceful and harmonious.
Principles of a Feng Shui Garden
A Feng Shui garden is a garden that is arranged in 9 areas or zones. Each represents a universe, a realm of life through forms, objects and colors. The Feng Shui garden must respect nature and be in harmony with it.
The 5 Elements
In Feng Shui, there are five basic elements– Fire, Water, Metal, Earth and Wood. They maintain harmony in the world around us and influence our lives. Therefore, in the feng shui garden design, these five elements must have to be in order in their zones.
Divison
According to the Feng Shui practice, the garden (or a home) must be divided into the nine energy zones. Draw a free-flowing square similar to the shape of your garden and divide that square into 9 equal parts.
The map will begin from your garden gate, consider the direction of your gate as North and align the feng shui map (bagua) according to it. The central area or zone will be called Tai Chi (the source of energy and life). The other eight areas or zones will surround this.
Dividing Garden into Nine Feng Shui Zones
Each zone represents an area of life and you must give space to the appropriate elements there.
North
The North is the zone that represents the fame, career and the flow and mystery of life. It symbolizes the winter season. It must have to be in the front of the entrance. Its dominant element is water and its color is blue, violet, black, and other dark colors. The shape is sinuous and items to integrate here are a water feature or pond, rocks, water plants, dark foliage plants and blue flowers.
North East
The Northeast represents wisdom and knowledge. The dominating element here is the earth and its colors are yellow, orange and cream. The shape is square. Garden benches, pots, and statues can be placed here. As the Northeast direction represents the wisdom, it is the place for meditation and yoga.
North West
Northwest part symbolizes support, friendship, guidance and represents the fall season. The dominant element here is metal and the colors to be there mainly are white, gray, golden brown, and silver. Plants like jasmine, gardenia or magnolia can be planted here. Rocks, gravels, and metallic objects are best suited here.
South
The South is the direction of success and fame and represents the summer. The dominant element here is fire and the main colors here are red, orange, purple and pink. Plants that have red or other similar colors like orange, pink, crimson, purple must be grown there. The shape of the South zone is the triangle.
South East
South East symbolizes the wealth and represents the season spring. Its dominant element is wood and its color is green and brown. You can grow here the plants that are related to this color.
South West
The South West is the zone that symbolizes love, pureness, and attraction between a couple. The dominant element here is Earth and the colors are to be yellow, orange, pink and other. The shape of the Southwest area is square and in this area you have to keep your garden furniture and objects in pairs to symbolize the parity.
East
This zone represents health and the season spring. Its dominant element is wood whose color is green (symbol of harmony and balance). Its shape is the rectangle. This is the area where you can grow medicinal plants, herbs, foliage plants and large trees like palms, plums, and bamboos.
West
This is the family area. Its main element is metal and its color is white (that symbolizes purity, freshness, and harmony). You can also use the gray and silver color here. The shape of the West Zone is the circle. Put some pots, chimes, rocks and wrought iron furniture. Plant shrubs here. Grow flowers of different colors together with whiter ones. Magnolia, jasmine, and lily of the valley are perfect for this area.
Central zone
Keep the central zone open and less cluttered as it is the most prominent point. This is the Tai Chi area. The key element here is earth and its color is yellow. This area represents the unity, harmony and balance. It connects all areas of the Feng Shui garden. This should be kept clean and maintained regularly.
Feng Shui Garden Design
A Feng Shui garden should not be overloaded, otherwise, Chi (energy of life) will circulate poorly. Keep the design simple.
To maintain the flow of energy, you must promote movement in the garden. Make curved paths and edgings. Invite butterflies, bees, and birds. Put feeders, grow fruit trees and flowers to attract them.
Furthermore, statues and sculptures also attract positive energy. Their size must be proportional to the garden. The large pots and urns are the holders of luck and abundance. So prefer the larger ones.
Water is an essential element in the Feng Shui garden. It is a symbol of prosperity. It takes place in the form of stream, waterfall or pond and it must be there in the appropriate zone.
The garden must be open, full of brightness and natural light. Walkways and entrances must not be blocked by any object or a tree. To bring nature, large rocks and gravels must be used.
Feng Shui Garden Plants According to Elements
The Feng Shui garden is full of positive energy and provides the perfect harmony of all the five elements. The plants you grow in your garden must be according to these elements. We offer you some examples of the plants that best represent the five elements.
A Few Popular Feng Shui PlantsBambooPeonyMaple TreePlumOrchidChrysanthemumIrisLilyLotusDaffodilMagnoliaJasmineGardeniaPine TreeCitrusGrassesElement 1. FireFeng Shui garden: Plants that represent the Fire
In general, plants with red bark and foliage or those with triangular or conical leaves represent the element fire. One of the most popular and the most beautiful examples of this is Japanese Maple tree (Acer palmatum).
Japanese red cedar (Cryptomeria Japonica), red camellia, boxwood shrub, holly, peonies, geraniums are other preferred Feng Shui plants that represent the fire.
Japanese Maple
Red camellia
Element 2. WaterPlants that represent water element
The color of the water element is blue, violet, black. Plants of these colors represent the water element. Here are some examples: Snake’s beard, Heuchera, taro (Colocasia esculenta), sweet potato vine, iris, lily, and lotus.
Heuchera Micrantha
Sweet Potato Vine
Element 3. MetalPlants that represent the metal
Plants that represent the metal in the Feng Shui garden are mainly those with the round or oval leaves and white flowers or of light golden brown colors. Plants like white hydrangeas, rhododendron, many species of hostas, gardenias, white mums, jasmine and dogwood tree represent the metal.
Hosta
Dogwood Tree
Hydrangea
Element 4. EarthPlants that represent the Earth
Plants with yellow flowers with similar colors or of earthy tones, those with square shaped foliage represent the Earth element in Feng Shui garden. A few of these plants that represent earth elements are Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’, Japanese laurel (Aucuba japonica), rhododendron, river birch (Betula nigra), Ginkgo biloba tree and grasses such as miscanthus.
Rhododendron ‘Admiral Semmes’
Miscanthus
Betula nigra
Aucuba japonica
Element 5. WoodPlants that represent wood in the garden
Plants with long thin stems and lush greenery such as Japanese bamboo (Pseudosasa Japonica), best represents the wood element in the Feng-shui garden. Palms, pine tree and other conifers, medicinal herbs and common lungwort (Pulmonaria Officinalis) are the plants well suited to represent the wood element in the garden.
Rosemary
Start with the parts of your garden you would like to change, grow the Feng Shui plants there and apply the principles given below and see how it works.
What is Feng Shui
Feng Shui is an art of reaching harmony in life, a practice that comes from the China. It is believed that if a place (home, garden, office or anywhere) is arranged according to the Feng Shui guidelines it remains, prosperous, peaceful and harmonious.
Principles of a Feng Shui Garden
A Feng Shui garden is a garden that is arranged in 9 areas or zones. Each represents a universe, a realm of life through forms, objects and colors. The Feng Shui garden must respect nature and be in harmony with it.
The 5 Elements
In Feng Shui, there are five basic elements– Fire, Water, Metal, Earth and Wood. They maintain harmony in the world around us and influence our lives. Therefore, in the feng shui garden design, these five elements must have to be in order in their zones.
Divison
According to the Feng Shui practice, the garden (or a home) must be divided into the nine energy zones. Draw a free-flowing square similar to the shape of your garden and divide that square into 9 equal parts.
The map will begin from your garden gate, consider the direction of your gate as North and align the feng shui map (bagua) according to it. The central area or zone will be called Tai Chi (the source of energy and life). The other eight areas or zones will surround this.
Dividing Garden into Nine Feng Shui Zones
Each zone represents an area of life and you must give space to the appropriate elements there.
North
The North is the zone that represents the fame, career and the flow and mystery of life. It symbolizes the winter season. It must have to be in the front of the entrance. Its dominant element is water and its color is blue, violet, black, and other dark colors. The shape is sinuous and items to integrate here are a water feature or pond, rocks, water plants, dark foliage plants and blue flowers.
North East
The Northeast represents wisdom and knowledge. The dominating element here is the earth and its colors are yellow, orange and cream. The shape is square. Garden benches, pots, and statues can be placed here. As the Northeast direction represents the wisdom, it is the place for meditation and yoga.
North West
Northwest part symbolizes support, friendship, guidance and represents the fall season. The dominant element here is metal and the colors to be there mainly are white, gray, golden brown, and silver. Plants like jasmine, gardenia or magnolia can be planted here. Rocks, gravels, and metallic objects are best suited here.
South
The South is the direction of success and fame and represents the summer. The dominant element here is fire and the main colors here are red, orange, purple and pink. Plants that have red or other similar colors like orange, pink, crimson, purple must be grown there. The shape of the South zone is the triangle.
South East
South East symbolizes the wealth and represents the season spring. Its dominant element is wood and its color is green and brown. You can grow here the plants that are related to this color.
South West
The South West is the zone that symbolizes love, pureness, and attraction between a couple. The dominant element here is Earth and the colors are to be yellow, orange, pink and other. The shape of the Southwest area is square and in this area you have to keep your garden furniture and objects in pairs to symbolize the parity.
East
This zone represents health and the season spring. Its dominant element is wood whose color is green (symbol of harmony and balance). Its shape is the rectangle. This is the area where you can grow medicinal plants, herbs, foliage plants and large trees like palms, plums, and bamboos.
West
This is the family area. Its main element is metal and its color is white (that symbolizes purity, freshness, and harmony). You can also use the gray and silver color here. The shape of the West Zone is the circle. Put some pots, chimes, rocks and wrought iron furniture. Plant shrubs here. Grow flowers of different colors together with whiter ones. Magnolia, jasmine, and lily of the valley are perfect for this area.
Central zone
Keep the central zone open and less cluttered as it is the most prominent point. This is the Tai Chi area. The key element here is earth and its color is yellow. This area represents the unity, harmony and balance. It connects all areas of the Feng Shui garden. This should be kept clean and maintained regularly.
Feng Shui Garden Design
A Feng Shui garden should not be overloaded, otherwise, Chi (energy of life) will circulate poorly. Keep the design simple.
To maintain the flow of energy, you must promote movement in the garden. Make curved paths and edgings. Invite butterflies, bees, and birds. Put feeders, grow fruit trees and flowers to attract them.
Furthermore, statues and sculptures also attract positive energy. Their size must be proportional to the garden. The large pots and urns are the holders of luck and abundance. So prefer the larger ones.
Water is an essential element in the Feng Shui garden. It is a symbol of prosperity. It takes place in the form of stream, waterfall or pond and it must be there in the appropriate zone.
The garden must be open, full of brightness and natural light. Walkways and entrances must not be blocked by any object or a tree. To bring nature, large rocks and gravels must be used.
Feng Shui Garden Plants According to Elements
The Feng Shui garden is full of positive energy and provides the perfect harmony of all the five elements. The plants you grow in your garden must be according to these elements. We offer you some examples of the plants that best represent the five elements.
A Few Popular Feng Shui PlantsBambooPeonyMaple TreePlumOrchidChrysanthemumIrisLilyLotusDaffodilMagnoliaJasmineGardeniaPine TreeCitrusGrassesElement 1. FireFeng Shui garden: Plants that represent the Fire
In general, plants with red bark and foliage or those with triangular or conical leaves represent the element fire. One of the most popular and the most beautiful examples of this is Japanese Maple tree (Acer palmatum).
Japanese red cedar (Cryptomeria Japonica), red camellia, boxwood shrub, holly, peonies, geraniums are other preferred Feng Shui plants that represent the fire.
Japanese Maple
Red camellia
Element 2. WaterPlants that represent water element
The color of the water element is blue, violet, black. Plants of these colors represent the water element. Here are some examples: Snake’s beard, Heuchera, taro (Colocasia esculenta), sweet potato vine, iris, lily, and lotus.
Heuchera Micrantha
Sweet Potato Vine
Element 3. MetalPlants that represent the metal
Plants that represent the metal in the Feng Shui garden are mainly those with the round or oval leaves and white flowers or of light golden brown colors. Plants like white hydrangeas, rhododendron, many species of hostas, gardenias, white mums, jasmine and dogwood tree represent the metal.
Hosta
Dogwood Tree
Hydrangea
Element 4. EarthPlants that represent the Earth
Plants with yellow flowers with similar colors or of earthy tones, those with square shaped foliage represent the Earth element in Feng Shui garden. A few of these plants that represent earth elements are Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’, Japanese laurel (Aucuba japonica), rhododendron, river birch (Betula nigra), Ginkgo biloba tree and grasses such as miscanthus.
Rhododendron ‘Admiral Semmes’
Miscanthus
Betula nigra
Aucuba japonica
Element 5. WoodPlants that represent wood in the garden
Plants with long thin stems and lush greenery such as Japanese bamboo (Pseudosasa Japonica), best represents the wood element in the Feng-shui garden. Palms, pine tree and other conifers, medicinal herbs and common lungwort (Pulmonaria Officinalis) are the plants well suited to represent the wood element in the garden.
Rosemary
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