Last year over on my YouTube channel I posted a video showing off our free front porch summer makeover. I got so many comments on my "green thumb" and how lush our porch looked.

I chuckled with every comment because I have the opposite of a green thumb, I am actually a plant killer.

However, the past two years we have had garden success through panting a container garden. Here are a few tips to help you succeed in the process also.

1. Pick the right soil.

I will admit that we had terrible luck with our regular old traditional garden. That is because our soil is acidic and sandy. However, the plants that were in our containers THRIVED because they had a choice soil.

We just used Miracle Grow Garden Soil potting mix for flowers and vegetables. (Nope, this isn't a sponsored post.)

2. Fertilize, Fertilize, Fertilize!

Immediately after planting we fertilized our plants with a liquid fertilizer and then continued to fertilize once a week.

3. Pick the right pot.

Some plants like basil and other herbs love moist soil, while some plants really need a good drainage system.

Make sure there are adequate holes in the bottom of your plants to prevent root rot.

4. Water daily, sometimes twice

I know this seems super obvious, but you have to remember to water your plants each day. If it doesn't rain for a good 30 minutes then your plants will need watering.

Potted plants dry out more quickly than those in a tradition in ground garden. You need to keep the soil wet. If a plant's soil has dried out all the way to the bottom of the container, that plant is surely a goner.

Experts recommend watering in the morning because that is when the root system is the most receptive. And water until water runs out the holes in the pot. If you live in a really hot climate, I recommend twice daily.

Set an alarm on your phone to help you remember if necessary.

5. Provide adequate sunlight.

Read the little label on the plant that tells you how much sunlight the plant needs. If a lot of sunlight is required move the plant to the edge of your porch so it can get the light it needs.

Okay, that's it. It will take a little time and effort, but it's so worth it.

If you're wondering what plants grow well in containers, here is a great list.

What about you? Have you had container garden success?

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