An Arguement For Growing In Pots

POTS

Easier. Instant. Portable.
These Zinnia are about to burst into bloom and will be moved into a place where I can enjoy their flowers (and hide their straggly legs).

The arguments for growing in pots are substantial, yet many people feel that growing flowers in pots is ‘cheating’. If so, terrific! There are no hard and fast “rules” in gardening — not really. It’s simply whatever works. And when you are just starting out, or perhaps haven’t had success in the past, all the “cheats” you can get help immensely.

Growing in pots is almost instant — no digging over a garden bed, no weeding. Grab the biggest pot you have (or treat yourself to a new one) — the bigger the better. Pop it into a sunny spot (minimum six hours a day of direct sun) and place it somewhere you will see it every day. This will remind you to water it, prompt you to check on it, and allow you to enjoy your flowers when they bloom. Fill with good quality potting mix, add flower seeds - and you’re away.

Growing in pots is also easier in terms of pest control. Copper banding for slugs is easier for starters (consider banding the whole pot — for more on dealing with pests including copper banding, see HERE).And pots are portable. This is perfect for those on a lease who may need to move house before their flowers bloom. But even if a move is not on the cards, those of us who like to “change our minds” frequently will appreciate that pots allow for relocation to a different part of the yard, verandah, and beyond.

I am lucky enough to have a generous garden, yet I still like to grow many things in pots. A pot can be popped onto a wall or a windowsill, a table or a step — places you cannot turn into a permanent garden. It also means that when I am greedy and want to plant more flowers, yet have no space in the garden itself, I can grab a pot and plant up. I like to grow flowers in pots, tucking them into the back of the garden until they are doing something spectacular, then moving them to a more prominent spot where their blooms can be enjoyed.

Instant, easier, and portable. It’s a win-win. So if you’re just starting out, consider “cheating” and growing in pots — you could literally start today.