Question: We have planted a variety of vegetables and flowers in large clay pots on our patio. The plants were very healthy before being planted, but now the leaves look pale. What is wrong? Do they need fertilizer and, if so, what should I use?

Answer: Container plants need regular fertilizing, since their roots can't travel through the garden soil in search of nutrients. Try fertilizing with fish emulsion- and seaweed-based fertilizer. These contain small quantities of highly available nitrogen which will help plants green up without stressing them. It's also possible the plants have been stressed by drying out. Clay pots are porous and you need to be diligent with your watering to maintain consistent soil moisture. Check the soil with a finger; if the soil is dry down to your knuckle, then water. Also mulch the soil with bark chips or hay to conserve moisture.