I love this! Our terrace is slowly taking shape. When we get back from a trip in mid-June it's time to kick it into high gear and this post will be my companion. Great information all around, but especially about the pot size and soil. It's the little things. I really had no idea!
Awesome! I am glad it is going to be useful for you. I did forget one trick that helps, especially if you have issues with pots drying out. Use a brown paper bag and fold it down into the bottom of the pot to cover the holes before filling with soil. This slows the water down (the paper has to absorb water first before letting it seep through), but still allows for drainage. It will also help to wick up the water from the tray below to the soil. It can be a game changer.
Thanks for the soil and watering tips. I have some large pots whose soil definitely needs a refresh and your suggestion about dumping the pots out, mixing the combined soils and adding some new, is a practical way to save on the expense of going for all new potting soil.
What great helpful hints. Our deck faces East but is a little more shaded because of a large maple tree next to it. I'm going to have to do some research on some plants/vegetables that will work for me.
I love this! Our terrace is slowly taking shape. When we get back from a trip in mid-June it's time to kick it into high gear and this post will be my companion. Great information all around, but especially about the pot size and soil. It's the little things. I really had no idea!
Awesome! I am glad it is going to be useful for you. I did forget one trick that helps, especially if you have issues with pots drying out. Use a brown paper bag and fold it down into the bottom of the pot to cover the holes before filling with soil. This slows the water down (the paper has to absorb water first before letting it seep through), but still allows for drainage. It will also help to wick up the water from the tray below to the soil. It can be a game changer.
Great read - thanks Sue. I add a handful of activated biochar to my larger pots to help soil health and water holding
Thanks for the soil and watering tips. I have some large pots whose soil definitely needs a refresh and your suggestion about dumping the pots out, mixing the combined soils and adding some new, is a practical way to save on the expense of going for all new potting soil.
Exactly. The soil isn't "Bad" - it just needs some TLC to incorporate some air, some new nutrients, break any clumps, etc.
What great helpful hints. Our deck faces East but is a little more shaded because of a large maple tree next to it. I'm going to have to do some research on some plants/vegetables that will work for me.
That's awesome - I am so glad you found it useful!