Recipes for Perfect Flower Containers
Updated: Feb. 28, 2023Surefire combinations with great curb appeal
Flower Containers Planting Tips
Start fresh. Use fresh soil mix in new or clean containers. If you’re using old pots, treat the insides with a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water and rinse. You’ll want to test this solution first to make sure it doesn’t damage the container.
Container mix can be expensive. So with larger pots, fill the bottom third with styrofoam packing peanuts, crushed soda cans or other lightweight material that helps fill space but allows the water to drain. Then cover these fillers with weed-barrier fabric to prevent soil from settling between the filler.
It is easier to arrange and move plants around in a large container garden while they’re still in smaller pots. When you’re set, slide the plants out of their pots. Place in the soil so the top of their root ball will be about an inch below the lip of the container, then fill with soil. For more flower inspiration check out these pretty hanging planter ideas.
Overflowing Window Box
Why it works: Brimming with soft color and texture, this window box creates a colorful accent, even when not surrounded by a window. The purple-blue browallia echo the purple centers of the unique daisy- like osteospermum. The complementary yellow coleus and green foliage of the bacopa tie it all together.
Planter size: 36-in.- long by 10-in.-wide window box.Â
Growing conditions:Â Full sun.
Shopping List:
3 Purple-blue browallia
5 Golden bedder coleus
2 Osteospermum
3 Bacopa
Can’t-Miss Hanging Basket
Why it works: This lush hanging basket is designed to add a colorful punch to high areas. Its bold splashes of color add brilliance anywhere it’s hung.
Planter size: 24-in.-dia. basket.
Growing conditions: Full sun.
Shopping List:Â
3 Wave petunias
2 Sweet potato vine
2 Lemon gem marigold
3 Ivy geranium
2 Verbena
Traditional and Trendy Standing Container
Why it works: This raised container relies on traditional favorites like impatiens, spike and asparagus fern, yet gets an updated look from the silvery foliage of licorice vine. It’s a great combination for partial shade. The same combination and planting plan can be used for a hanging basket.
Planter Size: 16-in.-dia. container.
Growing conditions: Partial shade.
Shopping List:
4 Imatiens
1 Spike
2 Licorice Vine
2 Asparagus Fern
Want to add more color to your landscape this season? Check out these 49 colorful plants to brighten up your landscape! Start by incorporating one or more of these stunning plants into your plan.
