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In the zones where snow and frost make it almost impossible for some plants to survive the harsh winter, it is best to containerize them and move them indoors until the warmer weather kicks in.

A container garden at your front door is a warm gesture to welcome guests with pretty flowers, shrubs and/or trees.

You have the added benefit to move the plants to control exposure to the sunlight. Weed and pest control is much easier. And what’s more, you can do instant makeovers!

A container garden will brighten up your front door, inviting guests into your home. Seasonal color displays will add a final touch of style, such as the traditional colors of Christmas (red, green, gold, purple).

Tips for a successful container garden

  • Be careful not to over or underwater your plants. Good drainage is important to the plant’s survival. Thus, make sure the container has proper drainage holes. If there are non, drill your own at around 1.3 cm (0.5 inches) for small to medium size containers.
  • Also, keep in mind that larger containers generally have larger soil volume and need less frequent watering than the smaller containers.
  • I suggest you change your plastic containers to clay containers. This is because clay is a material that “breathes”. Whereas, plastic not. 
  • Use potting soil that is suitable for the plant. For instance, peat moss does not agree with every plant because it’s too acidic. The shops are full of potting mixes of different soil types. Carefully select one that matches the type of plant you have. Alternatively, go to your nearest garden nursery for expert advice. Whatever you do, do NOT use garden soil in your containers because they do not have the correct nutrient balance. After all, they may just be full of weed seeds too!
  • Talk about shopping. That beautiful container you like, may not be suitable in size. Consider the shape and the size of your plant, how fast it grows, and the root structure. Only then, having considered all that, do you look at the aesthetics. 
  • Just like us humans, plants also need their nutrients. Plants in containers have a limited resource. Unlike plants in open garden spaces. Therefore, you need to use an appropriate fertilizer to maintain healthy growth. Follow the instructions of the product you buy so you don’t overfeed them. And if you’re anything like me, make a note in your diary so you don’t forget when to feed them.