Easy Container Gardening for Beginners
Ready to bring some greenery into your space, but not sure where to start? Container gardening is an easy, low-commitment way to dip your toes into the world of plants—even if you're working with a small balcony, patio, or even just a sunny window. Calgary's unique climate means we need to be smart about what we grow, but don't worry! With a few simple tips and some hardy plants, you’ll be growing your own flowers and herbs in no time.
Choosing the Right Containers
First things first: your plants need a good home. For container gardening, it’s important to choose pots with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom (plants hate soggy roots!). For flowers and herbs that will eventually move outdoors, start them in small, portable containers so they’re easy to transport. When it’s time to transplant, go for larger containers—think at least 10-12 inches in diameter—so your plants have room to spread out.
Sunflowers: Easy & Cheerful
If you want a fun and easy way to start gardening, sunflowers are perfect. They grow quickly and are almost impossible to mess up. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep in a pot with good drainage, and place them somewhere sunny. Sunflowers love Calgary's long summer days, so once the May frost has passed, move them into a larger outdoor container where they can soak up all that sunshine. By mid-summer, you'll have tall, cheerful blooms to brighten your space.
Nasturtiums: Colorful & Edible
Nasturtiums are a great choice if you want something colorful and useful. These bright flowers are edible, adding a peppery kick to salads and garnishes. Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep in well-draining soil and place them in a sunny spot indoors. They grow quickly and are super hardy, making them perfect for Calgary’s unpredictable spring weather. Once it's warm enough, transfer them to an outdoor container for a splash of color all summer.
Cosmos: Simple & Stylish
Cosmos flowers are stylish, low-maintenance, and ideal for container gardening. Start the seeds indoors in small pots with well-draining soil. These flowers love sunlight, so keep them in a bright spot. After Calgary’s last frost (usually around the May long weekend), you can move them outside to a larger container. Their delicate blooms will add a soft, boho vibe to any space.
Herbs You Can’t Mess Up
Growing herbs in containers is one of the easiest ways to start gardening, and the best part? You can enjoy fresh flavors right from your windowsill or balcony. Try starting with:
Basil: This fragrant herb thrives indoors and can move outdoors once it's warm. Just plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep, keep the soil moist, and make sure it gets plenty of sunlight. Basil loves the heat, so wait until June to move it outside.
Chives: These are perfect for Calgary’s cooler spring climate. Start them indoors in a sunny spot and move them outside once the risk of frost is gone. Chives grow quickly and are great for snipping into salads, omelets, or as a garnish.
Parsley: A versatile herb that does well in containers, parsley can handle Calgary's cool nights. Plant seeds in well-draining soil, and after the frost risk passes, move the pots outside. Parsley loves partial sun, so it’s great for shady balconies or patios.
Gardening in Calgary’s Climate: Timing Is Key
Calgary's unpredictable weather means you’ll need to be cautious about when you move your plants outdoors. The city's high elevation and occasional spring frosts can make early gardening a challenge. A good rule of thumb is to wait until after the May long weekend to start transplanting your indoor plants outside. This way, you'll avoid the risk of late frosts damaging your plants. Calgary also experiences cool nights well into the summer, so if you're planting heat-loving plants like basil or tomatoes, consider bringing them inside at night if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Watering Tips for Containers
One of the most common mistakes new gardeners make is overwatering. Container plants need regular watering, but the key is to keep the soil moist—not soggy. Calgary's dry climate means water evaporates quickly, especially in the summer, so check your plants daily. Stick your finger into the soil—if it feels dry an inch down, it's time to water. Containers also dry out faster than garden beds, so be prepared to water more frequently, especially on hot days.
Fertilizing for Success
Because containers have limited soil, nutrients can get depleted quickly. To keep your plants healthy and thriving, use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Look for a balanced fertilizer or one designed for flowers and herbs, and follow the instructions carefully.
Get Growing Today!
Container gardening is the perfect way to bring some nature into your home, even if you’re working with limited space or experience. With just a few pots, some seeds, and a little bit of care, you’ll have a mini garden to enjoy all season long. Plus, gardening is a relaxing and rewarding hobby that can help you disconnect and unwind.
Ready to start? Visit Bloom Culture for more gardening tips, and let us help you create a beautiful, thriving container garden. Happy growing!
