Gardening in containers is like painting with living art—it’s versatile, creative, and perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. Whether you’re sprucing up a balcony, brightening a patio, or adding color to your entryway, container gardens are a fun and easy way to transform outdoor spaces. Follow these six tips to create stunning displays that thrive all season long.
1. Choose the Right Container
Make sure it has at least one drainage hole to avoid waterlogged roots. Choose a container that’s at least 12 inches in diameter or larger—it holds more soil, which means less watering and happier plants.
2. Use Potting Soil
When it comes to soil, skip the dirt from your yard. Instead, use high-quality potting soil specially designed for container gardening. It’s lightweight, well-draining, and has better aeration which gives your plants the best chance to thrive. Look for mixes with added fertilizers or water-retention agents to give your plants an extra boost.
3. Choose the Right Plants
First, assess the light conditions—plants that love the sun (8 plus hours of sun) won’t thrive in the shade and vice versa.
Next, follow the “Thrillers, Fillers, and Spillers” formula for a dynamic arrangement:
- Thrillers are bold and tall, like canna lilies or ornamental grasses, that steal the spotlight.
- Fillers provide volume with medium-height plants like petunias or coleus.
- Spillers cascade elegantly over the edges, with options like creeping jenny or sweet potato vine.
Mix textures, colors, and foliage types to create visual interest, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
4. Fertilizer
Because there is a limited amount of soil, container gardens need regular feeding to grow and thrive! Use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time, and supplement with a water-soluble option every two weeks. Just remember that moderation is key. Over-fertilizing can do more harm than good.
5. Groom and Trim
Regularly remove dead leaves and faded blooms to keep your plants looking fresh and tidy. Prune overgrown plants to encourage fuller growth and trim any overzealous spillers to maintain balance in your arrangement. A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your container garden looking good.
Water Frequently
Container plants get thirsty fast, especially in hot weather, so check them daily. Water deeply until it flows out of the drainage hole, ensuring the roots are well-hydrated. During summer heat waves, you might need to water twice a day. Self-watering pots and drip irrigation systems can save time and effort.
Creating beautiful outdoor container gardens is a blend of science and art. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, plant combinations, and unique containers to reflect your personal style. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, container gardens are a wonderful way to bring life and color to your outdoor spaces.
Pleasant View Gardens offers four seasons of container gardens for our Wayzata and West Metro clients in the Twin Cities area. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Our designers create on site, one of a kind containers taking into account your color preferences, the light your container receives and the style and colors of your home.
Call us at 612-978-3487 or contact us for a free consultation.
