When I first considered container gardening ideas I was a little bit let down. I live out in the desert so I decided that any plants that I brought onto my balcony should actually be useful. I was worried about how this would initially look. I knew that I would enjoy all of the produce, but since I would be living with it for several seasons I wanted to make sure that it wasn’t just cluttering up my patio.
I found that focusing more on the pots and getting more intricate versions of these was actually really helpful from a design standpoint. I really wouldn’t want flowers cluttering it up anyways. Even in very expensive gardens I’ve noticed a trend in using greenery a lot more than flowers for a contemporary appearance. This actually worked to my advantage because then I had a garden that was useful and productive but also beautiful too.
It also helped to keep my patio a bit cooler too. This was due to the increased humidity due to the foliage, and the shade it cast on the patio.
What Type of Container to Use?
You know that section of the classified ads that has all of the freebies in it? Sometimes it seems like people are just giving away total junk. However, container gardening makes almost anything useful. It’s a chance to show off your personality because I even seen versions that use shoes.
The depth of your container is going to determine the plant that you can put in it. Not only does it depend on the size and how large it will grow it’s also going to be important for you to get basins that can handle water. I have seen succulents growing in very small and shallow goblets. This really only works for desert kinds of plants.
For smaller herbs I love the look of mason jars which are popular also in interior design but you can make it useful. This is even a fun idea if your kids are helping you because then they’re going to be able to see more of the root systems unlike what you’d find with just a basic terra cotta pot. Plus, it allows you to start gardening basically for free.
The other salvageable idea you can get is the use of crates. This is another big design trend for the interior of your home and you can find it for storage boxes and ottomans and even salvaged coffee tables or bookshelf systems. However, using it outdoors allows you to get a wood tone that you really don’t have to worry about. This wood is always meant to be weathered and since it isn’t that high of quality, it doesn’t matter if it deteriorates or gets a little bit dirty. This just adds to the overall vintage appeal.
The idea of pallets that are traditionally used for packing is another unique container gardening idea. My favorite use for this is actually for a vertical garden, where the slots were used almost as shelves for different plants. Smaller plants are going to be a must here. Plus, you will have to worry a little bit about how you’re going to affix it to your siding and make sure that it drains properly so it doesn’t damage the exterior of your home.
Unusual Gardening Containers
Just as a testament of basically anything goes in container gardening; clawfoot bathtubs are another really wacky idea that looks fantastic when it’s actually done. While this does seem like a pretty far out idea it allows you to get a raised planting bed that’s pretty sizable and will definitely give your neighbors something to talk about. You can head out to your junk pile wherever you keep all the items that you want to donate but you’ve never gotten around to giving away. Then just give them new life because almost anything came be turned into a container just as long as you have a drill to create a hole for drainage. I’ve even seen a cute mini fridge and an old computer monitor used as planters.
Sometimes simpler is better, especially for working in a smaller space. If you’re planning a lot of different vegetables and herbs I just like to see classic terra cotta pots. This way, they’re all going to be matching. You can find them year after year as you add to your garden. While the plants are all going to be different at least there is a unifying theme with your planters.
Another vertical version uses a shoe organizer. Each pocket can hold a different plant. I have seen plants as large as lettuce and even mini tomatoes grown in these. I thought initially it would just be used for smaller herbs. Again, you’re going to want to go with drainage. Be aware that these pieces need to be really heavy duty and not just cheap like you’d get at the dollar store. All of those plants and soil does weigh a lot. If you want a container garden that looks great before your plants even start growing then consider unique planting options.