Starting your first urban planter box is exciting, but many beginners accidentally sabotage their gardens before they even bloom. The most common mistake is underestimating the importance of drainage. Without adequate holes at the bottom and a layer of gravel or broken pottery, water pools around the roots, leading to rot. Another frequent error is overwatering; it's better to check the soil's moisture an inch down rather than sticking to a rigid schedule.
Choosing the wrong plants for your specific conditions is a recipe for disappointment. A sun-loving tomato plant will struggle on a shaded balcony, just as deep-rooted vegetables won't thrive in a shallow box. Furthermore, the temptation to overcrowd the box is strong, but it leads to competition for light, water, and nutrients, stunting everyone's growth. Finally, using poor-quality garden soil instead of a light, nutrient-rich potting mix can compact around roots and introduce pests. By avoiding these simple pitfalls, your planter box can become a lush, productive urban oasis.