In the drought that is currently happening, it’s time to consider container gardening. Container gardening has been proven to be a great option to help you get your lawn and garden in tip top shape. It can also help you save money on your water bill, and can help you to keep your plants from getting damaged. However, there are some important things to consider before you start your own project.
Reusing containers reduces waste
If you’re trying to save money, cut back on waste and do your part for the environment, reusing containers is one way to go. There are many different types of containers available for you to choose from. They can be used on a large or small scale.
Reusing containers is the most efficient use of resources and also reduces waste. Reusable products are often less expensive than disposable products and can be reused indefinitely.
Aside from recycling, there are a number of other things you can do to make your life a little bit greener. One way is to buy local. This can lower your carbon footprint and support the local economy.
Another is to buy in bulk. The benefits of this are numerous, from reduced waste to increased savings. In addition to saving on packaging, you are reducing your overall carbon footprint.
Using reusable water bottles is another way to save on the planet. Instead of buying bottled water, fill a bottle at home and re-fill it when you’re out. You can even get refillery services.
You can use compost to boost your soil’s health and longevity. Compost is a form of natural fertilizer that plants break down to release the nutrients they need. Soil microbes increase the availability of these nutrients.
For example, you can make compost out of all types of containers. Some ideas include a wicker basket, old dresser drawers, baking pans and more.
Other options involve xeriscaping, which involves creating a garden from slow-growing, drought-tolerant plants. It can be a great way to reduce your trash and improve your yard’s health.
Recycling is not the only solution, though it is the most common. You should also consider reusing your items, as well as composting.
Succulents
Succulents are drought tolerant plants that are easy to grow indoors and outdoors. They also store water in their leaves. They look great in any container. There are many varieties to choose from.
When planting succulents, it’s important to find a spot that receives at least six hours of sun a day. In addition, it’s important to avoid too much moisture. Too much water can cause root rot and kill the plant.
The best containers to use for succulents are shallow terra cotta pots. Ideally, the pot should have a drainage hole so that excess water can drain. Another option is to buy decorative containers that have a metal grill. This will help the plant blend in with its surroundings.
If you are planning to over winter your succulents, be sure to use a protective layer such as white plastic. This will prevent the moisture from freezing, which can damage the plant’s roots.
You can display succulents in baskets, in large seashells, or on shelves. It’s also possible to plant them in decorative pans or tires. A crate can be a safe place to keep the plants over the winter.
One of the best things about succulents is their versatility. You can change the look of your garden just by moving them around.
Succulents are easy to propagate, so they can be grown year round. However, they should be grouped together in groups that have similar light and moisture requirements.
Succulents are not only attractive, they are also easy to care for. Their chubby, fleshy leaves will help you avoid overwatering your plants. These plants will take up minimal space, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance plant.
Cacti
Cacti are a great choice for a drought-tolerant garden. They are a natural water conserver and are easy to grow. You can plant them in pots, on the ground, in raised planting beds, or in a desert-inspired landscape.
If you want to grow cacti, you need to ensure that your soil is well-drained. A sand or gravel mix works well for this. It also helps if the soil is organic.
The cacti you choose will depend on their size and how much sun they need. Some will thrive in full sunlight, while others need filtered light. In most situations, you’ll only need to water them every 4-6 weeks.
Agaves, which are very drought-tolerant, are especially suited for container gardening. However, they will require some supplemental water when they first grow.
Other cacti, such as the old man cactus, are easily propagated from seeds. These plants look good in the yard, but they can be challenging to weed.
Cacti can be planted in a wide variety of containers, including unglazed terracotta planters. These plants also benefit from partial shade, which protects them from excessive summer heat.
To get started, you can purchase a specially formulated potting soil. Many brands are labeled organic. Or you can create your own mix at home.
Cacti are a favorite in xeriscapes. They look great with other drought-tolerant plants. Their fleshy leaves are excellent for holding water during dry spells. For best results, use a soil mix recommended for cacti.
When growing cacti, be sure to avoid overhead watering. This can cause rot. Instead, check your soil’s moisture level regularly.
In the absence of rainfall, deep soaks should be given to non-native cacti once or twice a month. For intense hot weather, you’ll need to give them a deep soak once or twice a week.
Lantana
Lantana can be a great addition to your container garden. These plants grow well in hot, sunny areas and offer an abundance of colorful blooms. They are easy to care for and thrive in almost any soil.
If you’re planning to use Lantana in a container, you should select a pot that’s at least 8 inches in diameter. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom. You should also choose a color that complements the style of your home.
Lantana plants can be grown as annuals or perennials. Plants in containers should be fertilized and deadheaded regularly. Use a good quality potting soil to avoid damage to the plant.
Lantanas can be planted directly into beds or into a wall. In addition to being drought-tolerant, they’re able to thrive in warm, humid conditions. They also make a great ground cover or accent plant in hanging baskets.
When planting, you should place the lantana plant in a slightly acidic soil. For best results, you should add fertilizer at least once a month during the growing season. It’s important not to overwater the plant as this can cause root rot.
To encourage a lanthana’s frequent blooming, prune it in the spring or mid-summer. Pruning the plant at this time will help it to become more dense and will allow it to flower more often.
During the hot, dry months, Lantana can develop a sooty mold that can attract whiteflies. Treating the plant with insecticidal soap can help get rid of the disease.
Lantanas are hardy in most parts of the country, but they can suffer from problems if they’re kept in cold, damp places. This includes spider mites, which cause stippling on the foliage. The leaves can also turn brown.
Butterfly weed
If you’re a gardener in a dry climate, a drought tolerant container garden is an ideal solution for you. Using a wide variety of plants that are drought resistant will help you reduce your water consumption, and you will also be able to attract wildlife and beneficial insects.
You can also use ground covers to provide foliar color and ornamental appeal. For example, a colorful plant like Madagascar periwinkle, which is a favorite among butterflies, is an excellent choice.
Many vegetables can also be grown in containers. The same goes for herbs, which add a little more foliar color and texture to your container landscape.
When it comes to watering your drought tolerant container garden, be sure to follow the proper schedule. A weekly soak is usually sufficient. However, if the weather is very hot or windy, it may be necessary to water more frequently.
In addition to watering your plants, mulching your soil is a great way to reduce evaporation. This can also help prevent disease and make your container look a lot nicer.
The most important thing to remember when it comes to a drought tolerant container garden is to group similar plants together. This helps ensure that the plants are not outgrowing one another. Alternatively, if you want to be more adventurous, you can mix and match different types of plants in the same container.
It’s also a good idea to research the growth habits of your plants before pruning. Some plants, such as the globe thistle, have a taproot that stores water for use in dry times. Unlike their flowery counterparts, these plants can survive dry conditions.