A flower pot and soil are one of the two most simple growing methods. The other simple method for growing plants is basic gardening with soil without a flower pot or container. We have used both of these methods. Let's look at our experiences with both of these methods.

Basic gardening in our yard is difficult. We have clay soil that does not drain well at all. Only grass, weeds, and select flowers will grow in our soil. I could add additional soil and amendments to change the soil consistency. However, this process is slow. It can take years to get the soil consistency right.

Due to the challenges of my yard, raised garden beds and pots have worked better. By using raised flower beds and flower pots, I can custom mix the soil for the type of plants I will be growing, which eliminates having to fight with clay soil. Using this method has made it easier to produce more of our food at home. As the current economic environment declines, this ability becomes more necessary.

Since the construction of our greenhouse, we have been able to start growing our baby plants earlier in the year. After our baby plants get an acceptable size, we move them to the raised garden beds and various pots around the yard after the threat of frost is gone. Common plants we start early include the following: different types of tomatoes, green peppers, hot peppers, and various herbs.

Whether using pots or raised garden beds, we still have two more vital elements to add. These two essential elements are water and fertilizer. They support the growing process and help produce healthy plants. With a few pots, you can get away with watering by hand. However, for many flower pots and raised garden beds, you will need to set up an irrigation system. Adding an irrigation system will make the watering process more productive and managable.

The other vital element, fertilizer, comes in many different types and forms. We try to use primarily organic fertilizers and compost. They provide the healthiest nutrients for the plants. Healthy plants produce healthy food.