Landscape architect Luciano Zanardo gives advice on choosing the best pot, explains the different substrates and shows how to plant the seedlings
Bringing some nature indoors is always a good idea. be inside pots or plantersenvironments such as living rooms, balconies, indoor or outdoor gardens and even the rooms are always more cheerful and beautiful with the presence of nature.
html[data-range=”xlarge”] figure image img.img-2330a82b0657766ce2c5c98a954121d7h8ki7w35 { width: 774px; height: 516px; }HTML[data-range=”large”] figure image img.img-2330a82b0657766ce2c5c98a954121d7h8ki7w35 { width: 548px; height: 365px; }HTML[data-range=”small”] figure figure img.img-2330a82b0657766ce2c5c98a954121d7h8ki7w35, html[data-range=”medium”] figure image img.img-2330a82b0657766ce2c5c98a954121d7h8ki7w35 { width: 564px; height: 376px; }HTML[data-range=”small”] .article__image-embed, html[data-range=”medium”] .article__image-embed { width: 564px; margin: auto 0 30px; }
With a multitude of species available to choose from, there is always one ideal plant for the style and climatic conditions of the environment. However, more than just watering the plant and making sure it doesn’t wilt in the sun, some care is needed before planting.
“Properly preparing pots and planters is essential to guarantee an ideal environment for the healthy growth of plants. This initial care is essential to establish the ideal conditions for drainage, nutrients and space for root development”, explains the landscape architect Luciano Zanardo, from ‘office Zanardo Landscaping.
By signing Praça do Polinizador, in the 36th edition of CASACOR São Paulo, the specialist brings indications and valuable advice which, if followed correctly, allow flowers, foliage, herbs or vegetables thrive exuberantly and vibrantly. Watch!
How to choose a pot for seedlings
The first step in choosing the ideal vase is think about the development of the plant in the coming months and also over the years. Is it a plant that will grow a lot? So opt for a vase with the largest diameter!
“My main orientation is that the pots are chosen according to the development of the plant. Medium-sized fruit trees, palms and ornamental plants can be placed in large pots, since in this way we already anticipate the development of the species. The thinking is the same for smaller systems, but in these cases the smaller models do their job”, guides Zanardo.
Another recommendation from the landscaper is to perform a quick research on the size of the chosen crop before deciding on the diameter and height of the pot. Large canopies, plants with long roots or fruit trees require pots with at least 20 litres.
As for the types of spices and aromatic herbs, ideal for those starting to venture into the world of gardening, they can be grown in small containers, provided there are about 15cm deep.
After choosing the size, it is essential to check if the pot has holes for excess water to drain. “If there isn’t any, you need to make them. That way water doesn’t pool at the bottom and the plant’s roots aren’t at risk of rotting,” the landscaper points out.
How to prepare the vase
The assembly of the vase or planter directly affects the development of the plant: therefore following a few steps is essential.
- The first step is wash the container with soap and water and, after cleaning, dry it well.
- Then a layer of Expanded clay of 5 cm is accompanied by blanket. With this drainage layer it is ensured that the roots of the plant do not deteriorate and that the soil does not compact into clods.
How to choose the substrate
After the drainage layer, deposit the substrate or soil. With different types of substrate available for purchase, understanding their particularities is crucial to a successful planting. Discover the main types and their indications according to the experience of Luciano Zanardo:
- Plant soil: It is one of the substrates that adapt more naturally to most plants. Obtained from a mixture of common earth, vegetable garden and natural compost, such as humus, it is also known as “ready-made soil” and can easily be purchased in specialized shops;
- Sand: Composed of construction site sand, common earth and vegetable garden, it is an excellent substrate for succulent plants and cacti, since these plants need a permeable material, due to the low concentration of water;
- Coconut fiber: its main function is to retain water, also serving for the branching of the roots, aeration of the soil and the maintenance of the PH always neutral;
- Pine Bark: particularly suitable for the cultivation of orchids, this substrate allows water retention and rapid gas exchange. “The interesting thing is that this material favors a sort of simulation of the natural environment of the plant and helps its development in pots and other spaces in the house”, underlines the landscaper;
- Peat: frequent in swampy regions, it is rich in nutrients, helps to retain vegetable liquids and is particularly suitable for ferns;
- Humus: Produced by the decomposition of microorganisms by earthworms, it releases nutrients for plants and is commonly used for its role as soil preparer.
How to plant seedlings
With the pot ready to receive the plant, place it carefully so as not to break the lump – ideally, the top of the nod should be rough 1 cm below the rim of the pot and then fill the remaining space with earth. “Remember also to make sure that the seedling is firm”, Luciano points out.
- Give a generous first wateringwatering the plant until the water runs out through the holes in the pot.
- After the earth settles down, verify that it is not necessary to complete it with more earth until it reaches the edge of the pot.
- After you finish planting, it’s time to finish. The specialist indicates pine bark or pebbles which, in addition to giving a nice appearance, prevents soil compaction and helps maintain humidity, especially in hot regions.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
