It is getting close to plant my annual containers (Zone 7) & the blank canvas I see every year is the most exciting part. I have given you some of the actual container basics in Container Gardens 101 & watering advice in Watering Container Gardens 101, now it’s time for the artist in all of us to shine!
Before I get to the actual plants, I want you to consider the complimentary colors & some beautiful color blends. (see wheel at left) There are never any right or wrong color choices because whatever you choose will blend like a wonderful English cottage garden. The basics: blues compliment peaches, tangerine/mango (the 2012 color of the season), & orange. Lots of green foliage compliments the pinks & reds. Yellows compliment the purples. I like white anywhere. These are some basics. I use the purples, pinks & white together for a soft, seamless look. Also blending many shades of a color together is a very sophisticated look. (Think pinks or purples because the selection is endless) Again, there are no wrong colors, the sky’s the limit! Be creative & squint like an artist.
Containers of the large size have three basic components: the thriller, filler & spiller. The thriller is your centerpiece plant. The filler plants are your lower growers that surround the thriller. The spiller plants will spill & drape over the sides of your container giving a soft look. Look around your yard first before you shop. You may have some plants waiting for you. I use Lamium (pictured at left) for my spiller plant. It makes a wonderful ground cover, but has a spilling growth habit & it’s free! Vinca vine is also a nice choice.
Consider the sun exposure you have first of all & then plan your wish list. You will ALWAYS see other plants not on your list that just strike a cord. Go for it & try them out. Learning by experience is the best teacher. I offer this advice is as a guide to save you money. Tomorrow I will post the plant choices as a guideline only. Proper sun exposure, watering & maintenance will make all your planters a success!
Remember to check your planting zone for frost free planting dates! Check out this cool link below!!!
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