More ideas for container gardening at the library

More ideas for container gardening at the library

Rowan Public Library

Dr. Betty Middleton
 

Container gardening is fast becoming the gardening of choice, especially for people on the go. Containers are simple to plant, quick-growing and perfect for small spaces.

“Continuous Container Gardens” by Sara Begg Townsend and Roanne Robins offers an innovative system for creating stylish containers that can change with the seasons. Featuring 12 containers, the designers show the various ways of swapping plants for each season to create a total of 48 different looks. Each look is accompanied with stunning photographs.

Malcolm Miller’s “Container Gardening Throughout the Year” begins by first considering the containers and then discussing plant selection and the light, soil and moisture requirements for each. The full-page photographs illustrate how the containers (such as aged terra cotta pots, wire baskets, antique lead vases or glazed urns) enhance the flowers and foliage.

In “Container Kitchen Garden,” Anthony Atha explains how to grow herbs, vegetables and fruit in small spaces. His basic information includes choosing a container, preparing the site, choosing and buying the plants. This book contains a plant directory of 140 herbs, vegetables and fruits and gives data on their sizes, growing conditions and uses. Colorful illustrations are on every page.

Lifelong gardener Edward C. Smith became fascinated with the idea of self-watering containers and, after experimenting and testing various containers, soil mixtures, etc., he is convinced that anyone can grow and enjoy organic vegetables using pots with continuous-flow watering systems. Smith shares his information with readers and includes advice on beginning with seeds versus buying plants.

“Green thumb guide to patio gardens” is a DVD produced by TLC. David Hall show you how to choose the best plants and containers. It also includes useful advice on patio gardening and much more.

Magazines available (along with their websites) include Carolina Garden (carolinagarden.com), Organic Gardening (organicgardening.com) and Southern Living (southernliving.com) have articles on containers for gardening, organic gardening and pots that self water while you’re away.

Rowan Public Library has a great collection of books and other materials that will enable you to create the perfect patio, porch or outdoor arrangement.