Swap Shop

www.southernsenior.info 11 My name is Teresa Covington, and I’m addicted to plants! It started when I was 12 and was given an arrowhead plant. I found out I could propagate the plant and make more plants, how wonderful! I gave the new plants to family members and told them how to take care of them. Using a spoon from the kitchen and dig- ging soil from the yard, I worked with my plants. Flash forward to today, and I don’t even know how many containers of plants I have. I enjoy my flower beds and vegetable garden, but my containers are special to me. With containers you can grow plants that your zone will not support by protecting them or providing condi- tions needed. I like tropi- cal plants that will not survive our winter, so I grow them in containers and protect them when needed. A new plant can be monitored for water needs and to see if it can handle true full sun or shade and can be moved if needed. Using the design technique thriller, filler and spiller, I make a lot of different combinations. By prop- agating some of my plants and protecting them in win- ter, I can save money. Every spring I bring my plants out, trim any dead parts, fertilize and make up my con- tainers. I change plants around every year, so my con- tainers are never the same. My best advice would be to make sure that all plants in a container have the same water and light needs. Combinations are unlim- ited. In 2020, I took the MSU Master Gardener train- ing classes. Through the Master Gardener program I have gained a wealth of additional information on plant identification, new propagation techniques, pest con- trol, and so much more. To join this great group of peo- ple, call the Pearl River County Extension office at 601-403-2280. S • Affordable Cost of Living • Low Taxes • Low Crime Rate • Quality Medical Care • Recreation • Educational & Cultural Opportunities • A Warm, Welcoming Community Come Home PICAYUNE to a place called 1 of Mississippi’s only 20 Certified Retirement Cities Container Plants By: Teresa Covington MSU Pearl River County Extension Service­ Master Gardener