Very pleased to have received the Barnes Good Garden Award 2017 for the well kept and nicely planted pots of the frontage of this house in Barnes.
In general, we are all very enthusiastic about having blooming window boxes and plants in pots but we usually do not realise how important it is to follow few steps when filling up the pots the first time.
Plants in window boxes and planters are higher maintenance than planted in the ground. It is all about choosing the appropriate compost, thinking of the irrigation or watering system, drainage and feeding.
At Square Garden Design, we would be happy to assist you with the design and the planting of your pots and help you get it right from the beginning.
Watering
Watering the pots can be labour intensive, particularly in the warmer months. Although watering is less needed in the winter, this should not be ignored as rain do not necessarily reach the compost if the plant covers the pot. Overwatering in winter should be avoided particularly when frost is around.
Having an automated irrigation system is a solution but this can quickly become a problem to your downstairs neighbours as they may be annoyed with the water spillage. Finding a balance is not easy. Too often, pots sold in garden centres come with drainage holes at the base, which do not help. Having a drainage layer at the bottom with holes on the side would make your life easier.
Compost
The choice of compost depends on the plants you have. Multi purpose compost will do the job but more specific types of compost can be found on the market.
John Innes 3 is suitable for mature plants.
Container and garden compost can be used for flowering plants. It generally comes with few months feed and water retaining granules.
Feeding
Plants in containers need to be fed regularly. Best is to use slow release fertiliser as Osmocote or Grow Sure slow release granules for instance.