Caring for Pots & Containers | Garden Advice

Pots, baskets, and containers bring versatility and beauty to any garden, patio, or balcony, but they need the right care to truly thrive. Regular watering and feeding are essential to keep your plants healthy, vibrant, and full of life. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your container plants flourish.

Watering Your Pots, Baskets & Containers

Container plants dry out more quickly than those in the ground, so consistent watering is key. Here are some essential watering tips:

Check moisture levels – Before watering, test the soil by inserting your finger about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water deeply – Shallow watering leads to weak roots. Water until excess drains from the bottom of the container to encourage strong root growth.
Morning and evening watering – Watering early or late reduces evaporation and helps plants absorb moisture more effectively.
Use self-watering containers – Short on time? Self-watering pots or a layer of mulch help retain moisture.
Adjust for weather conditions – In hot weather, daily watering may be needed, while in cooler conditions, less frequent watering is best.

Gentle Watering with the Right Spray Gun

Using the right watering tool can help prevent soil disturbance and root damage. The Flopro Multi Spray Gun is designed with seven spray patterns, including a soft, air-infused spray that’s ideal for watering pots and containers. This gentle flow:

Prevents soil displacement, keeping the compost structure intact
Directs water to the roots instead of the leaves, reducing the risk of scorching in hot weather
Protects young plants and delicate roots from harsh water pressure

Reaching Hanging Baskets with Ease

Hanging baskets are a great way to add height and visual interest to your garden, but they can be difficult to water properly. A watering lance, such as the Flopro Softflo Watering Lance, is the perfect solution. With an extended reach and the same soft spray technology as the Multi Spray Gun, it allows you to:

Water baskets without straining to reach high-up plants
Deliver a gentle, even soak without damaging delicate flowers
Reduce leaf scorching by watering the roots

While hosepipes and spray guns are great for quick watering, a watering can is still a gardening essential – especially for targeted watering of small pots or seedlings. However, traditional watering cans can be tricky to fill and heavy to carry, leading to water spills and wasted effort.

Innovative Watering with the Flopro Quick Fill & Flo Can-Can

The Flopro Quick Fill & Flo Can-Can 7.5L makes watering easier with its unique hosepipe connector, allowing you to:

Fill up hands-free – Simply connect it to your hosepipe, eliminating the need to hold it under the tap
Fill anywhere in the garden – No need for multiple trips back and forth to an outdoor tap
Reduce spills and leaks – No more struggling with awkward tap angles or losing the rose head

Feeding Your Pots & Container Plants

Potted plants rely on you for nutrients, as container soil depletes over time. Feeding regularly ensures strong roots, lush foliage, and abundant flowers.

Choose the right feed – Different plants have different needs. A balanced liquid feed supports general growth, while a high-potash feed encourages flowering and fruiting. Find out more about how to choose the right plant feed.
Feed regularly – Most container plants benefit from feeding every 1-2 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn).
Use slow-release fertilisers – Mix Westland Boost All Purpose Multi-Action Granules into compost for up to 6 months of feeding.
Refresh compost annually – Over time, nutrients deplete, so repot or top-dress with fresh compost each year.
Go organic – If you prefer natural alternatives, use liquid seaweed, or well-rotted manure to nourish your plants.

Westland Boost All Purpose Liquid Plant Food is a great all-around feed that will give you 4x more blooms and more fruit and veg compared to watering alone. Powered by innovative Plantsense™ technology, it provides essential nutrients to all ornamental and ericaceous plants, as well as fruit and vegetable crops. As the first feed formulated for use with both peat and peat-free composts, it ensures versatile and effective feeding. Its unique water management technology enhances nutrient absorption, making application quicker, easier, and more efficient for healthier, thriving plants. Simply feed every time you water for summer long blooms.