Organic container gardening, or growing vegetables without the use of pesticides in containers rather than in the ground, is a relatively simple way to save money and grow one's own food. Many people enjoy container gardening as well, and find that it can be a great way to teach kids important lessons about where food comes from, and the potential impact of pesticides on humans, animals, and the environment. One of the best tips for organic container gardening is to plan the garden out ahead of time, and to have realistic expectations regarding the amount of food that will be produced.
Keep in mind that it is not necessary to have a big yard or outdoor area to practice organic container gardening. Container gardens can thrive on small porches or patios; some people with especially sunny areas of the home find that smaller plants, such as herbs, can succeed indoors as well. In addition, one common tip for organic container gardening is to creatively use found containers, rather than purchasing new plastic ones; drainage holes are the sole requirement. Old watering cans, buckets, bowls, or even old furniture can be used for a gardening container; metal tubs or older ceramic flowerpots also make excellent containers.
Then, purchase organic soil to put in the containers. Organic fertilizer may be purchased as well, or compost made from yard and kitchen scraps can be used as an excellent fertilizer. There are many articles to be found online about how to create compost; it is a simple process that can be completed in just a few weeks. Selecting the vegetables one will grow is a matter of personal preference. Virtually all vegetables can be grown in containers, though some of the most popular include tomatoes, radishes, cucumbers, onions, carrots, and lettuces, among others.
Keep in mind that organic container gardening requires more frequent watering than regular gardening where plants are in the ground. It is important to water the plants every day or every other day, but it is equally important that the soil can drain to prevent the roots from rotting. In addition, be sure that the containers receive sufficient sunlight throughout the day; in general, vegetables typically need sustained direct sunlight in order to survive. If pests become a problem, they can sometimes be removed with a spray mixture of water and detergent, or with the use of an organic pest spray; do not use standard insecticide, which is not biodegradable.
