Have your own garden

Do you like gardening? Do you have green fingers? Then, this article would certainly interest you.

Some of you may like gardening, but may not have much space at your house for a proper garden, but do not despair. You can still have a beautiful collection of potted plants which may not take much space.

Plants in pots/containers can lighten up a space, filling the gaps in a large garden and decorating doorways and garden paths. They are versatile, but have to be well cared for, for the best results.

First, you have to select a pot/container which is large enough to hold the required amount of compost. If the pot is too shallow, the compost will dry out quickly, affecting the growth of plants. It's better if you could use compost especially formulated for containers as it contains water-retaining material and food to encourage the growth of plants.

When selecting a container, you can opt for anything that catches your fancy. The only requirement is that it has enough drainage holes at the base to let out excess water. Water-clogged compost can cause the plant roots to rot.

Now you have the right container. The next step is to prepare it for plant growth. The bottom of the pot should be covered upto one or two inches with a layer of broken crockery or small stones, so that the water drains easily. If the pots are regularly moved from one place to another, you can even layer them with broken polystyrene.

Then you can fill the pot with compost. Ensure that the compost is not packed too tight or firmly as room should be left for the roots to spread. Compost should be laid upto one inch below the rim of the pot for easy watering of the plants.

Your potted garden would give the best display if you have plants bearing flowers of contrasting shades. An explosion of colour, where bright colours are teamed with more muted shades, would be perfect.

You can experiment with differently shaped plants as well. Tall plants, spreading plants, trailing plants ... these could all be grouped together for a breath-taking display. Always be ready to experiment; this way you will get the best results.

It's not enough to prepare the containers and plant your desired varieties of foliage. You'll also have to take proper care of them. You will have to check your containers almost every day. It is important that the compost doesn't dry out; it should remain moist. Keep in mind that as plants grow and spread out, not even rainfall may penetrate the compost. You should ensure that it is kept moist.

Enjoy yourself in your garden!