I prefer growing everything in the ground as I'm lazy and don't like to water and fertilize often. Containers require much more attention, though I like the versatility they offer.

I am actually quite envious of folks who can successfully grow in containers.

Interesting loribee :) I have grown mostly in containers and I think the key is to have wide enough containers. Feeding is definitely much more of a chore but slow release fertilizers work very well for containers.

But yes plants do thrive much better on raised bed/ground. So for the people who have the space, its a better choice!

Like Lori I much prefer in ground. I do both but the containers are more work and generally less productive than the same plant grown in ground.

And I have never found slow release fertilizers to work all that well in containers. They can result in very inconsistent nutrient levels in many cases as they are easily affected by weather, watering regimens, container size, potting mix used, etc. Too many variables that can't be well-controlled. Liquid supplements work much better in my opinion as they are much easier to control and maintain consistent levels with.

Dave

I have plenty of real estate and have given up trying to grow zucchini in the ground. If the squirrels don't eat all the leaves the plant wilts mid day. I get good harvests in containers.

Zeuspaul

zeuspaul - Yes, I agree that the veggies are much safer from critters in containers. Chipmunks/Squirrels are one of the biggest menaces but I also find slugs chewing down plants on the ground much more than they do to the plants plants I have in containers.

This season, I also have zucchini growing in the ground and its not doing as well as the ones in container.

Mine are in ground. Ummmmmm anyone want some zucchini????? Please????????
Since I retired last year I have very few people to give it to! I only have 1 each of zuk and crookneck! I probably got a half dozen of each this week! Nancy

Nancy, the Redwood Empire Food Bank up in Santa Rosa accepts produce from home gardeners. And it's a tax write off!

nancyjane_gardener - Nice to know you are having a good harvest!

loribee2 - Thanks for the info, that is great to know.