While we all may not have acres of land, growing is a summer pastime with so many benefits. Containers come in all shapes and sizes and add beauty just as the green things they grow. Clay pots are attractive and sustainable and we mostly use this type. Many veggies flower and are a pretty compliment to non-edibles in a shared container.

A few key considerations when choosing your containers:

drainage - make sure there are ample holes at the base and drip trays
substrate - fill your container with compost, soil, gravel, etc. for optimal plant health
fertilizer - produce and annual crops require lots of food. The smaller the container the more they need.
sunlight - choose plants for your light conditions. This element is key to the plants thriving.

In our years of backyard gardening in the Hailey, Idaho area, we have found success with the following plants:

Basil

Chilis
Cilantro
Eggplant
Kale
Potatoes
Rosemary
Spinach
Tarragon
Tomatoes

There are a number of garden stores in the Wood River Valley. They are very knowledgeable and stock a nice assortment of product. Stay tuned for Maeme’s homemade “miracle grow”, she will be making some as the summer gets rolling.

Happy gardening!