Rooted & Radiant
Guide· Outdoor Gardening 2 min

Pots and Garden Beds Are Not the Same

Why kitchen scraps that work in a garden bed can cause problems in containers.

SeriesKitchen Scraps in the Garden: Myths, Truths and Better Ways to Use Them· Part 3

Something that may be harmless in a large garden bed can cause problems inside a small container. Garden soil has more space, soil life, and room for organic material to break down. A flowerpot or container has limited soil and needs good drainage and airflow. Too many coffee grounds can make the mix dense, while large eggshell pieces may sit there without offering much benefit. For containers, use a quality potting mix, finished compost in appropriate amounts, and fertilizer designed for potted plants. Save most kitchen scraps for the compost pile or outdoor garden soil. Natural does not automatically mean suitable for every growing space.

Are you growing mostly in pots, raised beds, or directly in the ground?

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