Easy Container Gardening Tips
Ready to bring a little greenery into your space but not sure where to start? Container gardening is an easy, low-commitment way to try your hand at growing plants. Even if you only have a small balcony, patio, or sunny window, you can create a thriving mini garden. Calgary’s unique climate means we need to be smart about what we grow, but with a few simple tips and some hardy plants, you will be enjoying flowers and herbs in no time.
Choosing the Right Containers
First things first, your plants need a good home. Always choose pots with drainage holes so excess water does not collect at the bottom. For flowers and herbs that you plan to move outdoors, start them in small, portable containers to make transplanting easier. When you move them outside, use larger containers, at least 10 to 12 inches wide, so your plants have space to grow.
Sunflowers: Easy and Cheerful
If you want a fun way to start gardening, sunflowers are perfect. They grow quickly and are very forgiving. Plant the seeds about an inch deep in a pot with good drainage and place it somewhere sunny. Sunflowers love Calgary’s long summer days, so once the May frost has passed, move them into a bigger outdoor container to soak up the sun.
Nasturtiums: Colorful and Edible
Nasturtiums are bright, edible flowers that add color and a peppery kick to salads. Plant the seeds half an inch deep in well-draining soil and keep them in a sunny spot indoors. They grow fast and handle Calgary’s unpredictable spring weather well. Once it is warm enough, move them to an outdoor container for color all summer long.
Cosmos: Simple and Stylish
Cosmos are stylish, easy to grow, and perfect for containers. Start the seeds indoors in small pots with good soil. These flowers love sunlight, so keep them in a bright spot. After Calgary’s last frost — usually around the May long weekend — move them outside to larger containers. Their delicate blooms add a soft, boho vibe to any space.
Herbs You Cannot Mess Up
Herbs are one of the easiest ways to start container gardening, and you get to enjoy fresh flavors right from your windowsill or balcony.
Basil: Loves warmth and lots of light. Plant seeds a quarter inch deep, keep the soil moist, and wait until June to move it outdoors.
Chives: Perfect for Calgary’s cool spring weather. Start them indoors and move them outside after the frost risk passes.
Parsley: Versatile and hardy. It handles cool nights well and grows well in partial sun, so it is great for shady spots.
Gardening in Calgary’s Climate
Calgary’s unpredictable weather means timing is key. Wait until after the May long weekend to move plants outdoors to avoid late frosts. The city’s cool nights can last well into summer, so bring heat-loving plants like basil inside at night if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Watering Tips for Containers
One common mistake is overwatering. Container plants need regular watering, but the soil should be moist, not soggy. Calgary’s dry air means water evaporates fast, so check daily. If the soil feels dry an inch deep, it is time to water. Containers dry out faster than garden beds, so be ready to water more on hot days.
Fertilizing for Success
Because containers have limited soil, nutrients can run out quickly. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to keep plants healthy. Always follow the directions on the label.
Get Growing Today
Container gardening is an easy way to bring nature into your home, no matter how much space or experience you have. With just a few pots, seeds, and a little care, you will have a mini garden to enjoy all season long. Gardening is a rewarding hobby that helps you relax and reconnect with nature.
Ready to grow? Visit Bloom Culture for more gardening tips and let us help you create a beautiful container garden this season. Happy growing!
