Space can be at a premium, especially these days when apartments and condos are so popular. A simple solution for those wanting to grow at least a few basic herbs and vegetables is to grow in containers. Maybe you don�t have the time to maintain a large vegetable garden, or you have a physical condition that prevents you bending down or using the usual gardening tools. Whatever the reason, container gardening can be a great way to produce some of your organic food needs.

Container gardening doesn't have to mean pre-made hanging baskets, terracotta pots or store bought window boxes. Let's get creative and use some great ways to re-use existing containers.

Soil :
You need to purchase premium potting mix for growing in containers. Don't be tempted to use soil from the garden in your pots as it will become compact and heavy, not allowing water to drain well. A premium potting medium is a must. It is lighter and so provides excellent drainage.

You will need to provide all your plants nutrients as most potting mixes do not come with organic fertilizer. Remember that more is not better when it comes to applying fertilizer. Too much fertilizer in contact with your plant's roots will burn them. Always follow the directions on packaged fertilizers.

Container plants need watering more frequently than normal garden plants, and as a result the water leaches away fertilizers. So container grown plants benefit from liquid feeds on a regular basis throughout their growing season. You can purchase organic liquid fertilizers if you don�t have room to make your own. Use them for foliar feeding and drenching the soil around your plants.

Watering :
Because container plants are above ground the sun and wind will dry potting soils out quicker than plants grown in the ground. During summer you will need to take care that your pots do not dry out.

It is important to make sure that your containers have adequate drainage or your plants will suffer and ultimately die if the roots are permanently sitting in water.

Choosing the Right Plants :
When you�re growing in containers you will need to look for varieties that are the most suitable for growing in small areas. Many herbs make excellent container specimens. You could start with some of the smaller vegetables such as radishes, lettuce, onions, capsicum or chillies, eggplant, short varieties of carrots, bush beans etc.
You can also try some climbing plants providing you have some trellis or railing for support. Strawberries grow well in containers, particularly hanging baskets if they are not allowed to dry out.

Location :
Choose a position for you container plants where they get about six hour sun each day, preferably morning sun rather than afternoon sun.
You may also need to protect your plants from falling over in strong winds. If you have many pots they might provide some protection for each other. Place the tallest plants along walls or trellises.

While container gardening may have its limitations, there are some great benefits.

• You have the advantage of being able to bring containers indoors through the coldest part of winter.
• Your pots / containers can create a focal point on a balcony or patio area, adding interest, colour or foliage.
• Planters can be made from just about any type of container that holds soil and allows adequate drainage.
• Potting mediums are easy to work with as they are the correct pH.
• Weeds are much less likely to become a problem.
• Less likely to be attacked by snails and slugs or soil borne diseases.
• The tiniest space- even a windowsill can be used to produce some fresh herbs.