By Makahla Holloway
Extension Agent, Lauderdale County Extension Office

There are many ways to garden, and both inground gardening and container gardening offer unique benefits that allow gardeners to be creative. Gardening in the ground provides plants with more space for roots to grow, often leading to larger plants and less frequent watering once established. Container gardening, on the other hand, offers flexibility—plants can be moved to capture better sunlight, avoid poor soil, or fit into small spaces such as patios, balconies or driveways. Containers also allow gardeners to control soil type and drainage more easily. Whether planting directly in the soil or using pots, raised beds, or repurposed containers, gardening can be adapted to fit different spaces, needs and imagination. Click on the Alabama Cooperative Extension System articles below to learn more.

• Alabama Gardener’s Calendar — Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Planting Guide for Home Gardening in Alabama – Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Basics of Fall Vegetable Gardening — Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Container Gardening — Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Raised Bed Gardening — Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Straw Bale Gardening – Alabama Cooperative Extension System
  
  

For additional information on gardening in northwest Alabama, visit the Alabama Cooperative Extension System website.