Container gardening gaining popularity among those with smaller spaces

Gardeners around the world can barely contain the excitement of container gardening, which has gained popularity in recent years as an attractive and easy alternative to large garden beds for a number of reasons.

The movement towards movable gardens comes as no surprise considering the number of gardeners with limited time and space as well as those gardeners that do not own land.

Not only can several small or medium sized containers be moved from one home to another, they can also be moved to safety during a storm or to allow for changing sun and moisture needs.

Additionally, traditional garden plots can take a lot of time to prepare, the ground needs to be cultivated, leveled or terraced, and possibly enriched with compost.

Once planted, the back-breaking work of weeding a large garden plot takes even more time.

Using a container can be as simple as mixing potting soil with compost, filling the container, planting and watering; weeding is rarely necessary.

Containers do not need to be large, pricey or even originally produced for a garden, instead gardeners can plant in anything from a clean vial to an old bathtub.

Upcycled items often make the most visually appealing containers, so try planning a succulent garden in an old, rustic, little, red wagon.

Tool boxes, crates, tires, canisters and hundreds of repurposed items have been used as containers for gardens everywhere.

Running short on ground space? Try hanging a variety of pots and bins on an old pallet to create a beautiful vertical garden or use an over-the-door shoe organizer for herbs.

Many of these ideas can be used indoors as well, creating a welcoming natural space and keeping home-grown herbs, fruits and vegetables closer to the kitchen while extending growing periods.

This practice is best if a gardener takes the time to know the growing needs of the plant, such as how much light it needs and which size container works best.

Some plants have short roots, while others need more space, and some will require a stake or even a trellis on which to climb.

Taking the needs of the plant into consideration, as well as the available space, container gardening can be a fun way to personalize both indoor and outdoor space as well as provide food and fun for both novice and seasoned gardeners.