Growing plants in containers can add a whole new dimension to your landscape. Container growing is similar to growing houseplants except that the plants are outdoors in the summer sun and heat. Here are some basics for great containers in your home landscape.
 

• Drainage is a Must - Anything may be used as a container as long as it will hold the growing media and has a drainage hole. Containers that lack proper drainage will hold water at the saturation point for longer than most plants can stand. This will result in poor vigor and ultimately, root rots and death. 
  
  

• Use Potting Media and Not Garden Soil - Garden soil is too heavy, poorly drained and may contain insects, diseases and weed seeds. Potting media comes sterile from the bag and usually has great drainage. It is also relatively light weight which will minimize the possibility of a hanging basket dropping on your head!
  
  

• Overplant a Little - Generally, we place plants closer to each other in a container than we would in a bed or border. In a container, we want that crowded, overhanging effect to accentuate the planting. 
  
   

• Water Frequently - Containers have a small volume of potting soil and we want good drainage so they may be need to be watered frequently during hot, dry weather. Sun-loving plants in a well drained situation may need to be watered two or three times a day. 
  
  

• Fertilizer Options - To form lush, cascading growth in the containers, the plants need to put on a lot of foliage. To do that, they need plenty of nutrients in the soil which may be provided in several ways.