The activity of gardening can help lower blood pressure, improve core strength and reduce stress levels – all while alleviating symptoms of depression, increasing feelings of relaxation and improving overall mood.
Yet those considering the trade-off of homeowner responsibilities and upkeep for the maintenance-free lifestyle of independent living may believe planting a garden will no longer be possible.
If you love the pleasures of growing but have limited space or physical limitations, container gardening can be the perfect solution. The following tips can lead you in the right direction if you’re ready to create a unique and manageable garden for your balcony or patio.
Successful Container Gardening: Designing for Your Space
The first step is to design a container garden for your specific space. Take note of when and how much sun or shade is available. Factor in the direction your apartment is facing. Remember, some plants require direct sun while others would wilt with that type of exposure.
If you’re unsure of what combinations would produce the best results, chat with those who work in a nursery. They can make recommendations for your specific location and which plants mix well in a container.
You’ll also want to consider your color scheme. Clustering pots with your favorite hues can be striking. Ideas from the Dallas County Master Gardener Association include using shade-loving and colorful flowers such as Caladiums, with Foxtail or Kimberly fern as a centerpiece. Or fill a container with white Caladiums surrounded by bright green Creeping Jenny spilling over the sides. Visit their website for more ideas.
Successful Container Gardening: Choose the Right Pots
Attractive resin or plastic pots are easier to move. Containers with wheels or casters allow for repositioning without having to do the heavy lifting. Self-watering containers with built-in reservoirs reduce the need for watering.
Elevated containers eliminate the need to bend over and are great for those with balance or mobility concerns. Check that your containers have proper drainage holes. If a favorite pot can’t be modified for drainage, you can place a layer of small stones or gravel at the bottom which will keep the plants’ roots from sitting in water.
Another great idea is to repurpose a vintage item that you may have, such as a wooden or galvanized bucket. You can use any type of container to plant, but make sure it has the ability to drain or modify it with gravel. These types of containers will make your garden unique and are often conversation starters.
Successful Container Gardening: Choose the Right Plants
When and what you can plant depends on the zone of the country you live in. In the Dallas area, we are in Zone 8 based on the estimated last frost date of 3/21 and the first frost date of 11/14, according to the Urban Farmer planting calendar. However, keep in mind that container plants have less insulation than those planted in the ground, so they may freeze quicker or not thrive as well in cooler temperatures.
Consider the following when shopping for plants:
- Avoid mixing plants that thrive in shade with those that prefer full sun.
- Avoid combining plants that are drought-tolerant with those who need moist soil.
- Create interest by varying plant textures, dimensions and colors.
- Try the “Thriller, Filler and Spiller” method of container gardening. Include a tall, visually appealing plant for the central focal point (thriller). Surround it with mid-height, full plants (filler). Finally, finish the pot with trailing plants that cascade over the edges (spiller).
- For those interested in edible gardening, consider planting herbs or vegetables, such as lettuce, arugula and kale.
Successful Container Gardening: Essential Supplies and Planting Techniques
- Always start with quality potting soil. Ask your local nursery for recommendations and be sure to let them know that this soil will be used in containers.
- Make sure you have basic gardening tools on hand, such as a small trowel or hand shovel, scissors for trimming and comfortable gardening gloves.
- Try different positions and combinations in your container with plants still in their nursery pots. When satisfied, remove the plants and place them in the container at the same depth they were in the nursery pot.
- While overwatering is often a common mistake, container plants can dry out faster than if they were planted in the ground. Before watering, insert your finger an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
- Check with your nursery for recommended fertilizer. Also, get in the habit of regularly deadheading (removing spent blooms), as this will encourage flowering. Harvesting leafy greens and herbs frequently also promotes their fresh growth.
Gardening Opportunities in Independent Living Communities
Container gardening allows residents to enjoy their personal outdoor space without having to bend, kneel or use physical strength.
If you are ready to take advantage of a maintenance-free, activity-rich and engaging independent living community, you may also find your gardening options extend beyond your own patio or balcony. Some communities provide raised gardens for residents to plant or tend. There may also be a gardening club onsite where you can meet others and exchange tips and ideas, creating a sense of belonging while continuing your lifelong learning and enjoyment of one of nature’s amazing gifts.
Independent Living at Presbyterian Village North
We offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience and peace of mind with our non-profit senior living community set on 66 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Whether you prefer a spacious apartment or a freestanding home, the variety of beautiful residences ensures you’ll find the perfect space to call your own.
With chef-prepared dining and a wide range of amenities, including a fitness center, therapeutic aquatic center and walking paths, every day offers opportunities to stay active and engaged. Residents enjoy a vibrant, welcoming community, open to all faiths, with endless opportunities for connection and personal growth.
From our on-campus pharmacy services to a resident clinic, professional security 24/7and a wireless emergency call system in every residence, your well-being is always a top priority. With exceptional amenities like a performing arts theater, woodworking shop, dog park, putting green and salon services, every detail is designed to enrich your life.
For more information about how Presbyterian Village North can help you or your loved one thrive in retirement, please reach out by calling (800) 391-2779 to request a personal tour or more details today.