Tips to growing plants successfully in containers

FALLBROOK – As summer turns to fall, plants in containers need to be assessed for successful, continued growth. Many plants may not have received enough water during the hot months, since they dry out quickly.

While terra-cotta pots are beautiful and add charm to gardens and patios, dry air can literally pull the moisture out of the soil right through the sides of the pot. Unfortunately for aesthetic value, most plants actually grow better in plastic pots.

The idea that plants are helped by a pot that “breathes” is a mistaken one. The soil mix itself should breathe. It should be light an...