Container farming or container gardening is an increasingly popular concept. It has become popular with urban farming as it provides farming space in a city environment. To make it even better, these containers can protect plants from environmental effects and pollution. When using cargo containers, you are able to reduce costs while getting a higher yield.
But, like with any other new concept, there are lots of things you need to know about container farming.
Here are the top 10 tips that will help you do it!
Getting pots
When you get a container, one of the first tasks will be to optimize the space. Ideally, you should consider getting vertical shelves. Here you can put pots for your favorite plants. There are lots of options when choosing the right type of pot: you can go with ceramic, terra-cotta, wood, plastic, etc. They have slightly different characteristics, which might affect how you're maintaining plants. If you choose to go with terra-cotta, we suggest that you properly hydrate it within the pot before adding soil. In terms of plastic pots, you might want to add drainage holes.
Finding the proper soil
With plants, everything starts and ends with proper soil. You can easily find quality products in your local market; there are numerous soil brands you can use. No matter what, you should read the labels and compare the prices before choosing a particular item. Don't risk it with existing soil from your backyard, as it might lead to some issues. Instead, make sure to get a fresh one.
Consider the light
Container gardening is easy because your plants can get enough sunlight. However, you will previously have to open the top. When choosing plants, you will have to consider how much exposure the interior of the container will get during a year. Combining sun-dependable and sun-independent plants can also be a good solution. Ultimately, make sure to find plants that are suitable for a particular climate.
Get healthy plants
Getting healthy plants will save you a lot of time and stress in the future. Make sure that your seeds are top-quality. You will also have to consider what kind of plants you wish to grow and whether or not they will be suitable together with other plants. Some urban farmers specialize in specific species. However, when it comes to gardening, you probably want to diversify a bit and get numerous species that will lighten your day.
Consider watering
Nothing changes in terms of watering; your plants will need enough love to thrive. Container gardening is completely the same as regular gardening in that you will have to water your plants constantly. Gardening can, or watering hose seems like an obvious solution. But, the great thing about containers is that you can install a drip system. That way, the whole process will be automated, and you won't have to interfere as much. Furthermore, drop systems are especially awesome for farmers and gardeners who want to scale the process.
Make sure to fertilize
Just because your plants are in pots, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t fertilize. In fact, you need to be as attentive as ever! This is especially true when it comes to certain types of flowers.
Plant in layers
If you want to achieve an optimal effect, you should put plants in layers. Categorize them properly so that it makes sense. The results will be amazing, and you will be proud of your small, pretty garden!
Be open to replacements
Don't try reviving plants that are already done. Whether you made a mistake or something else happened, don't live in the past, but instead, make sure to get new plants as replacements. This will give the container a new life and a refreshing look.
Remove faded blooms
Faded blooms can look really unflattering. If you remove them on time, they will encourage a new crop of flowers to form. This is another small trick for rejuvenating your garden that can go a long way.
Prepare for winter
A common mistake that urban gardeners make is not preparing for winter. If you have lots of annual plants, you should remove them as soon as possible and prepare your pots for the new season. Keep in mind that some of these pots can crack if left in extreme temperature.
With these 10 tips, you will be able to create an amazing flower garden in a shipping container. Even if you make a mistake, don't give up! The effort is the key!