This is an instructive article about the basics of container gardening. Container gardening means growing plants in a pot as opposed to in the ground. There are many types of containers that can be found at local grocery stores, drug stores or plant nurseries. Plant containers can be made out of a plethora of materials and can come in a variety of sizes.

Soil dries fastest in porous terra cotta pots that allow water to evaporate through the sides of the container. Porous pots are ideal for rooting plants that prefer hot and dry conditions. Succulents like sedum and hen and chickens are a good example of plants that don’t require much water. Heat-loving annuals are another type of plant that would fare well in porous pots. These include: moss rose, vinca and ganzania. Many herbs fall into this category as well, such as rosemary, basil, thyme and sage.hhttp://vegetablegardens.suite101.com/article.cfm/container_or_backyard_gardening

If you want to pot a plant that will remain outside through all the seasons, then you will choose a container made from material that can stand up to the elements like cast fiberstone, concrete or strong clay.http://www.thegardenhelper.com/planters.html Something that all containers have in common is the need for drainage holes, because all plants need to be watered occasionally.

One advantage to potting plants or growing them in containers is that they can be moved around. As the sun's position changes with the seasons, move the plant to sunnier or shadier places to fit the intrinsic needs of the plant. You will also be able to move plants into the 'spotlight' when they come into bloom, or into the background when they are finished blooming. For additional tips and tricks to successful container gardening. you can do a container gardening checklist at HGTV.com where you will learn the benefits of “teasing the roots”, “establishing enough headroom”, and “packing the potting mix.” http://www.hgtv.com/landscaping/container-checklist/index.html

• Soil

• Pot

• Seeds or Seedling

• Water