Today continues the series I introduced on January 11, 2010, when I proposed a paradigm shift vis-?É -vis gardeners and winter–the Indoor Garden. This new notion takes aspects of outdoor gardening and moves them inside.

This will be fun. Let's begin.

Just living isn't enough, said the butterfly. One must also have sunshine, freedom and a little flower.
~ Hans Christian Andersen

Careful readers know that, in my opinion, containers that hold plants are vitally important for the health of the plants and for aesthetic reasons. In the past my emphasis has been on containers for outdoor use but when viewed now through the eyes of an Indoor Gardener, the same theory applies.

Basically, put a $5 plant in a $50 container. In the short term, the look is far more pleasing and, in the long term, the container is a sound investment. It will hold countless plants over many years and will become a valuable piece in the collection of pots.

For collection is how I view it. Start gathering pots. You'll need to be prepared to have a proper Indoor Garden. Who knows what plants might be brought home from the grocery store and the greenhouse? Who can anticipate what coleus or fuchsia or begonia might be overwintered inside?

Consider all kinds of containers: antique urns, moss-encrusted olive jars, quirky pots, sleek and sophisticated pots, wicker baskets. Consider different materials: terra cotta, stone, metal, wood and concrete. Look for different sizes, too.

Where to find containers for your collection?
• Look in the shed where summer gardening things are stored. No doubt there are treasures never before considered. Clean them up and haul them inside. I'm pretty certain the pots aren't labeled "For outside use only."
• When at greenhouses, nurseries or any place that sells gardening supplies, check out the clearance areas. Maybe there's last year's model (who cares?) or one with a slight chip (adds character) or one that everyone else thought was weird but you find delightful.
• Cruise art shows, craft fairs, flea markets and antique shops.

Options are everywhere. The sky is the limit. Have fun.

This also appeared in the Askov American, Askov, Minnesota.