It’s the season for planting containers, which can be one of the most creative things we can do in the garden. Deciding which plants will be used is so much fun; what colors of foliage and flowers will I choose this year? But beyond the enjoyment of planting is the pleasure of arranging pots and boxes on decks, patios, driveways and porches. Containers can be used to soften hard edges and create a garden even where there is no soil for planting.
Assorted potted plants were very successfully used at this house to soften the stairs to the backdoor. The metal work pieces on the walls balance these containers beautifully as they add elements that breaks up the expanse of wall, but aren’t so heavy that they draw too much attention from the pots and plants.
This potted rose garden creates a nice transition from the deck to the lawn.
At this time of year I’m looking at all of the spaces around my house, trying to see each area with fresh eyes. I don’t have to repeat what I’ve done in previous years, for example. Where do I want to create a display of potted plants this year? Which hard surfaces would benefit from a group of container plantings?
