Too Little Room? Water? Time? Try Container Gardening

There seem to be many more people interested in vegetable gardening this year.  I hear that more are wanting to be able to grow their own food either because of high costs, fear of future availability or the recent evidence that the food available is of low quality.  Whatever your reasons, you may want to consider container gardening.  Container gardening takes less space and water, produces more per square foot, requires less maintenance and no large equipment.  It is ideal for town folk with limited room and/or high water bills.  It also suits those will less time and energy to work a big garden.  Container gardens can come in many packages.  Pots, old feed tubs, split barrels, are perrienal favorites but can get difficult to keep watered in the heat of the summer.  Raised beds are excellent for larger gardens and, if built up 18 to 24 in. can reduce stress on the back.  They also hold water longer than smaller containers.  Another good choice is the Earthbox.  It is an all-in-one package with water storage in the bottom that takes advantage of the soils natural wicking characteristics.  While pricey, they offer the most freedom and self-sufficiency.  You can see an Earthbox above with broccoli.