| LOL Mike..First, thanks. My plants are nice, but they have their problems too. Especially in winter..I thank God insects haven't attacked..As you know, I spray w/my home-made insecticide, which, is probably one reason insects steer clear..they come near a plant, take a whiff, and go elsewhere, or they're in BIG trouble..lol. Why do I use tall containers?
I think you're talking about citrus, right? Okay, as you know, there were two nurseries in Fl my citrus were purchased. They shipped in, tall square pots, called Tree Pots. To be honest, I prefer round, but since roots adapted to square, I 'assumed' they'd needed potting in containers that were the same shape. Square.
When I looked for tree pots, the only pot supply store that sold large pots were square. They also had a round pot, but it was huge and expensive. Since I believe in potting 1-2 sizes up instead of 5 sizes larger, I decided to order the square tree pots until trees needed larger..when this happens, I'm going to order a few bigger, round tree pots a little at a time. This spring, each citrus will be unpotted, inspected, and planted in fresh soil. Does it take a lot longer for the lower roots to dry out?
Nope. When I mix soil and other mediums, it's well-draining. In fact, each tree needs a lot of water cause it seeps through soil. Despite what some believe, when citrus get fresh soil this year, more black soil will be added. I don't want soil to stay wet, but don't want it to dry soon after a drink either. How do you know when to water plants....
I just do..lol. Mike, there's so many ways to test. Lifting a pot for weight is one way..when I pick up a pot and it feels almost weightless, it needs water. In winter, they get much less water and no fertilizer, spring and summer, they get watered every couple days..enough water it seeps out of drainage holes. When containers are heavier to lift, I know roots are wet. How do you keep wind....
I can't..pots tip over easily..that's one reason I can't wait to change to round pots, and a bit heavier soil. There are times I go outside, pick up the same plant, as many as 8 times in an afternoon..it's a pain in the behind. lol. Soil spills. Plants are grouped together, like solders standing guard. lol. But honestly, they need round pots. Square tree pots are okay to start out, but as tree matures, and placed outside, they no longer work.
If anyone knows of a pot supply store that sells tree pots at reasonable prices, please let me know. TIA Mike, think I answered all your questions..All I know is, can't wait till spring, when it's warm enough for plants to go outdoors..sun, fresh air and humdidity..Heavens Rain. Sprinkling with a hose. Gotta love summer. I am sooo envious of those who live in warm, humid areas. lol. Plants in the ground, year round. Oh well, maybe in my next life..lol..hugs to all, Toni |
