Hanging
Baskets and Window Boxes
Only
have a small space available but would still like
to grow some plants, then watch this space!
Choice
of container is very important:-
|
Plastic
pots |
These
are cheap, light and durable and they
keep the soil moist, however, they can
turn brittle and crack and they are not
the most attractive. |
Terracotta
pots |
These
are made from baked clay and are very
attractive however, they are heavy, break
easily and are subject to frost damage. |
|
Glass fibre
containers |
These
can be moulded and coloured in many ways.
They can look like stone but, of course,
are much lighter and they are strong,
durable and repairable. They are,
however, more expensive than some other
material. |
|
Reconstituted
Stone |
These
are crushed stone moulded into shape.
Imitation classical urns and vases are
very attractive but extremely heavy.
In view of this weight they should be
used with caution in roof gardens or balconies. |
|
Window boxes |
These
are available in a variety of materials
including wood, plastic, metal, terracotta.
Wooden flower boxes provide better insulation
than plastic or metal, with Cedar being
the best (if you can find it) as this
is the most resistant to rot. Pine
is much less expensive but this should
be treated. It is best to
avoid commercial wood preservatives, especially
creosote. |
TIPS
The
box should be at least 200mm (8ins) deep to allow
for root growth and to prevent the soil drying
out too quickly.
If
you prefer you can put pots inside the window
box instead of filling the box with soil.
This allows you to lift them out and change them
around without disturbing the roots. It
also reduces the weight of the window box.
Make
sure the pots you put into the box and the box
itself have drainage holes, otherwise the
plants will become waterlogged.
In
Summer the box will need watering every day, aim
to keep the soil moist but never waterlogged.
Choose
low growing plants if you want maximum light from
your window. Climbers are another option
as they can be trained against the wall around
the window.
If
the box is sited in an exposed position, i.e.
on a wall or balcony, ensure it is fixed with
brackets or strong wire. Strong winds can
not only damage unsecured boxes but they can
also become very dangerous.
We
have listed some ideas for suitable plants for
these containers on another page.
brought to you by www.hintsandthings.co.uk
|
