Container Care Tips
We want you to have great success with your container planting here are some container care tips to help guide you through the process.
In order to be successful choose a planter that matches the amount of sunlight it will receive. Before coming to the greenhouse choose the site for your container and determine what style the container will be (ie. large pot for your deck, a window box or a hanging basket).
We will ask you which direction it faces – morning sun, full sun (at least 6 hrs. direct) late afternoon sun, north facing, under a veranda, or shaded by a tree. We can suggest plants that would thrive in its chosen location.
Once you choose your container and bring it home remember to fertilize weekly. We recommend 20-20-20 water soluble fertilizer. Water soluble is the type of fertilizer that you mix with water in the watering can and then water your plants. It is usually a blue powder that when mixed with water turns the water blue. There is also a type of water soluble fertilizer applicator that attaches to the end of your water hose and requires no mixing. At Jewell’s Country Market we offer a free fertilizer program; at the beginning of the season you can purchase a 4 litre jug of pre mixed, ready to apply, fertilizer. You may return as often as you like throughout the season for a free refill. Use this once a week on your plants for wonderful success.
Geraniums and wave petunias in particular are very heavy feeders, in order to keep them growing and blooming they need to be fertilized regularly.
Watering will vary depending on the type of plant, location, and container size. A plant in full sun will dry out much quicker than one in the shade. A large container has more soil and water holding capacity and will require less frequent watering than a smaller basket.
Many customers ask us what plants will survive the best in the wind. Plants in a sheltered site will perform much better than those in an exposed area and we can suggest plants which will be best (usually geranium and ivy trailers.). It is always a good idea to set your baskets in a sheltered spot when high winds and rain are in forecast.
Watering – Begonias – Do not over water! If your container has lobelia, bacopa or other trailers you can always water these along the edges of the basket without over watering the begonias.
Check your plants daily. Deadhead to remove tired blooms, trim straggly ends to keep tidy.
When planting your own container remember drainage! Make sure there is adequate drainage holes. If no drainage is provided excess water or heavy rain water cannot drain and the roots will suffocate. Holes will allow the excess water to drain away. Always use good quality soil mixes.
- Proper plant for location.
- Drainage!
- Good quality soil.
- Daily care (deadheading and water as required)
- Weekly fertilize.