Garden Tip: Clean up containers this spring

Submitted March 29, 2012 1:24PM

With warm temperatures, container gardening can start, too. Clean them up first before replacing soil and planting. | Submitted by Heather Prince

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Updated: March 29, 2012 6:06PM

Spring flowers are bursting into bloom with the recent warm temperatures.

Its time to plant containers and decorate porches and patios.

Take a few minutes to prepare your containers for another season before planting colorful spring flowers.

Container designers at The Growing Place recommend that, if your container has been outside, empty it and compost the used potting soil to minimize the chances for disease and insect problems. Inspect each container for damage, including cracks and chips. Using a mild bleach solution, about one part bleach to 10 parts water, and a firm brush, to thoroughly scrub pots inside and out to clean and disinfect.

Place your pot in the desired spot before refilling with new potting soil so you dont have to try to move a heavy container. Make sure it is raised off the ground for drainage, using pot lifters, bricks or caddies. Think about adding new pots and rearranging your containers to freshen your look. When choosing flowers to plant, look for those with lots of buds, rather than lots of blossoms. You might not have instant color, but youll be rewarded with a longer stretch of bloom time.

Garden Tip is courtesy of Heather Prince, The Growing Place, 630-355-4000, http://www.thegrowingplace.com

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Garden Tip: Clean up containers this spring