to support healthy vigorous bud growth.

Step by Step

1. Plant roots need adequate space to
   grow. The more space the roots have,
   the larger the topside growth.


2. There are a number of choices
   regarding containers. Trays provide the
   most space but do not allow the
   convenience of being able to move
   individual plants. Most gardeners
   choose individual containers.


3. A two inch square container supports a
   plant 4"-6". A 4 inch to 1 foot. A 5 inch
   to 2 feet. A 6 inch to 3 feet. Mature
   plants do very well in a 6" container.


4. An easy way growers provide more
   space to the roots is by increasing
   container depth.

Chapter 11

THE PLANTING

MEDIUM

The growing medium holds the roots
firmly so that they can support the plant,
and holds the water-nutrient solution and
air so that they are available to the plants. It
is obvious that the roots are used by the
plant to obtain water and nutrients, but they
need oxygen too. Roots not obtaining