Home > Projects >

How to Maintain a container plant

You will need: Compost, Hand fork, Gravel

Unlike plants growing in the borders, which can send out new roots in search of food or water, those in containers are completely dependent on you for all their needs. Along with checking regularly through the season for watering and attack by pests or disease, annual maintenance is important if they are to grow well and remain healthy.

Best time to do it:

Step 1

Weeds in the pot compete with the plant for water and nutrients. It may be necessary to remove the top 2cm of compost to make sure you get rid of both weeds and seeds.

Step 2

Replacing the lost layer with fresh, sterile compost helps reduce the weed problem and, if the compost contains fertiliser, feeds the plant too.

Step 3

If there is no food in the compost, you can add controlled-release fertiliser to last through the season. This only works properly if it is dark and moist, so fork it gently into the upper level of compost.

Step 4

For a long-term planting, mulching the surface with gravel, slate chips or bark will suppress weeds and conserve moisture. This will need washing or replacing when you repot the plant.

Related FAQs

Ask a gardening question:

Latest Gardening News

Autumn Estate Tractor and Trailer Tours launched at Blenheim Palace

Give the Gift of Nourishment to Garden Birds This Christmas With Peckish and Gardman

Essential Gardening Jobs for Late Summer

Essential Gardening Jobs for Mid Summer

Gardening Projects for September

---

How to care for your lawn in Autumn

How to protect against birds

How to: Maintenance Pruning

How to make the most of your dahlias

Latest Gardening Videos

---

How do I prune lavender?

Why are my pansies and violas wilting?

How to Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs

Five Essential Tips for Growing Lemons

Will tulips grow in the shade?

How do I protect my grapes from insects?

All Videos

Explore Gardens from Around the World

Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Bangalore, India

Aswan Botanical Garden
Aswan, Egypt

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Richmond, United Kingdom

Nongnooch Tropical Garden
Pattaya, Thailand

Butchart Gardens
British Columbia, Canada

Medellin Botanical Garden
Medellin, Columbia