Foolproof container gardening

Container gardening is simple, efficient and satisfying. Whether you live on a sprawling property or in a small apartment with a sliver of windowsill, you can make beautiful creations by following my five simple rules.

Get familiar with different containers.

Consider using window boxes, hanging baskets, wall-mounted containers, raised beds, tires, sinks and wheelbarrows.

Terra-cotta planters are classic, but porous, so water will evaporate quickly in the heat. Plastic pots are economical and easy to transport. Terra cotta look-alikes made from polyurethane look great, and you don’t have to worry about leaving them outside in the winter (real terra cotta can crack).

Wood and ceramic containers also are reliable.

When choosing colored ceramic pots, stick to one or two hues, so your eyes won’t be confused by too much color.

Ensure good drainage.

Regardless of the type of pot you use, it must have at least one drainage hole. Then, put some type of feet (you can buy terra-cotta ones or use bricks) or a saucer under the pot so excess water can drain easily out of the bottom. It’s also important to cover the hole inside the pot with a bit of broken pottery to facilitate steady drainage.

Add three components to the pot to give plants a rich and nutritious environment: quality potting soil or soilless potting mix, water-retaining crystals and a slow-release granular fertilizer. In larger pots, leave 1 to 2 inches between the soil and the top of the pot so there’s room to water the container without the soil spilling over the edge. Water-retaining gels or crystals, found at any garden center, are like sponges, holding loads of moisture and releasing it as needed.

Imagine the container has three rings: a centerpiece, then a ring of plants that cluster together, and then an outer ring of plants to drape over the edges. I like to use one showy, standout plant for the centerpiece, mounding plants for the middle ring and climbers for the outer ring.

Think bold and simple.

Using repetition and limiting yourself to no more than three or four flower colors, even in a large area, are satisfying to the eye. You’ll make a much stronger statement by grouping one type of pot in a variety of sizes and shapes rather than using different types.