The one pot garden

I know that those of us who live in apartments or condominiums don't necessarily have outside space, but you can actually have a lovely one-pot garden if you have a sunny window or balcony.

It is amazing how simple it can actually be. The first thing you need for a one-pot garden is a large pot that has a drainage hole in the bottom, and a saucer to put underneath. If you are growing inside instead of on a balcony or porch, you'll probably want to put down extra protection for your floor or carpet. You'll also need some good organic potting soil, some fertilizer, and of course, plants.

You can even mix flowers with veggies for the best of both worlds. The right flowers, herbs, and vegetables planted together can help keep bugs at bay. In addition to adding color to your one-pot garden, flowers like tansies deter Japanese beetles, nasturtiums keep away aphids, and marigolds repel whiteflies and a host of other garden pests. Pick one or more to decorate your pot.

My personal favorite choices for a one-pot garden are basil, parsley, marjoram, a staked tomato and several marigolds to go around the edge. Of course these aren't the only things you can plant. Do a little research online or ask at your local garden shop, and you may find even better ones than I suggested here. Also, keep in mind that the bigger the pot, the more you can grow in it. If you have an outdoor patio or deck you might consider using a large tin tub or an old child's wagon with holes drilled in the bottom for drainage, so you can add even more to your one-pot garden.

Keep an eye on your soil moisture, as potted plants tend to dry out faster than a large garden bed would. Also, make sure to fertilize according to the instructions on the bag or bottle and put your pot in a spot where it will get 7 or more hours of sunshine a day. With a little attention you'll soon have a lovely one-pot garden that will provide you with tasty vegetables and herbs as well as beautiful flowers.

If you enjoy cooking with fresh herbs and like to put tomatoes in your salads, but your space to grow them is limited, you may find my one-pot garden idea perfect for the spring and summer.