Complete Guide to Growing Vegetables on the Balcony: What Containers to Use?
Answering netizens' questions about the experience of growing fruits and vegetables on the balcony, the complete guide to growing vegetables on the balcony: What containers to use? The details are as follows:
Almost any type of container can be used to grow vegetables on the balcony, as long as it is strong enough to provide sufficient space and drainage channels. In addition to traditional flowerpots, planters, and other professional containers, many items from daily life can be modified and used, such as plastic basins, buckets, plant boxes, planters, wooden boxes, aluminum boxes, galvanized iron boxes, plastic boxes, earthenware, food cans, even bathtubs, tires, burlap bags, and barbeque trays can all be utilized. However, regardless of the container chosen, it must have drainage holes at the bottom. Pots, buckets, boxes, earthenware, baskets, and pitchers can all be used to grow vegetables. Tubers like potatoes can be grown in bags, while onions, chives, and garlic sprouts can be grown in baking trays. Tires and burlap bags are also good containers for growing vegetables.
Here are a few points to consider when choosing containers for growing vegetables:
> Drainage Holes
No matter what type of container is chosen for growing vegetables, it is essential to ensure that there are drainage holes at the bottom to allow for proper drainage. Drainage is crucial. Poor drainage can cause the plant roots to suffocate and rot, while too much drainage can lead to the plant drying out from lack of water. Professional containers like flowerpots and planters purchased from the market typically have drainage holes. For containers modified from daily items, you will need to drill drainage holes yourself, usually by drilling a few evenly spaced holes with a diameter of 0.5-1 cm around the bottom.
To prevent soil from washing away when watering, you can use a "pot saucer" method, which involves covering the drainage holes with broken flowerpot pieces, tiles, or window screens to block the holes. To promote drainage, you can place some coarse sand or small stones on top of the pot saucer material to maintain proper drainage. For climbing plants like cucumbers and green beans, a "cage" can be added to the pot for support.
> Material
Generally, clay and wooden containers have faster drainage than plastic containers and require more watering. Avoid placing plastic containers near windows, as they are lightweight and can be easily knocked over by the wind. Do not use pressure-treated wooden containers, as they contain chemical preservatives that can harm plants. If making a wooden container yourself, it's best to use decay-resistant wood, such as pine or cedar.
> Color
Be cautious with black containers, as black absorbs heat and can damage plant roots. If black containers are chosen, it's best to paint them with a lighter color or keep them shaded to prevent direct sunlight.
> Size
The size of the container is important. It's better to choose a larger container, as it not only has room for more fertilizer but also retains more water, preventing it from drying out quickly in the summer. Tomatoes, peppers, and green beans require larger containers, usually around 15-20 liters. When purchasing seeds or seedlings, it's best to consult the seller about the size of the container needed and how to water and fertilize.
The above introduction to the complete guide to growing vegetables on the balcony: What containers to use? Is hoped to provide flower enthusiasts with some knowledge about horticulture.