Squash, Melons and Cucumbers
Most people don't think of vining vegetables when they think of container gardens.
The biggest thing to remember is anything that vines like melons and squash and cucumbers need a lot of room to grow. But don't let that scare you into thinking you can't do it. Start with a pot large enough to accommodate your vine. Then understand that your vine needs to spread. If you are limited on space, think vertical. Adding a trellis will allow your vine to grow upward. But, when the vines go up they are weighted down when they begin to fruit. You will need to fashion a system of slings to support larger fruit such as cantaloupe and watermelon. Most squash and cucumbers will be fine.
Mulch the top of the soil to retain moisture. Keep the soil moisture consistent. Don't allow it to dry too much for too long and then water or it could cause the fruit to split. The soil should be moist but allow to dry between watering, being sure to soak the soil until the excess drains out.
It is recommended that you use a container no less than 12 inches across per plant or 24 inches across per 2 plants. when adding your support you may use tomato cages that you have turned upside down and wired the "legs" together at the top or simple trellises. If you are using 2 containers you can fashion an arch between them out of rabbit wire and PVC pipe. It may be necessary to prune back some of the ends as they reach beyond their designated areas. However, you do not want to trim off any blooms as that will reduce your yield. Be sure you twist the vines around the support as they grow to keep them growing upward.
It is quite possible to grow enough for sharing or even freezing or canning. However, I wouldn't plan on preserving large quantities from a pot or two.
Many plant lovers are joining the trend of container gardening as they move toward a more self-sufficient lifestyle. Who doesn't love the thought of eating organic vegetables without the cost that is so often associated with organics?
There is a peace of mind in knowing exactly where your fresh produce is coming from. Who knows, you may find yourself an avid container gardener before it is all said and done.
It is recommended that you use a container no less than 12 inches across per plant or 24 inches across per 2 plants. when adding your support you may use tomato cages that you have turned upside down and wired the "legs" together at the top or simple trellises. If you are using 2 containers you can fashion an arch between them out of rabbit wire and PVC pipe. It may be necessary to prune back some of the ends as they reach beyond their designated areas. However, you do not want to trim off any blooms as that will reduce your yield. Be sure you twist the vines around the support as they grow to keep them growing upward.
Many plant lovers are joining the trend of container gardening as they move toward a more self-sufficient lifestyle. Who doesn't love the thought of eating organic vegetables without the cost that is so often associated with organics?
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Do you sell garden containers?
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