Once you've got a thriller, spiller and filler, add in more favorites, like the yellow lantana shown here. (In this Proven Winners container the white Angelonia is the thriller, sweet potato vine on the left is the spiller and on the right, Diamond Frost euphorbia is the filler.)
1. DO select a container that will give your plants’ roots room to grow, but not so much space that they will not fill out the pot when mature.
2. DO plant in pots with drainage holes. Some decorative containers might be missing drainage holes. If so, drill a few holes yourself or place a smaller pot inside the decorative one to give water a place to drain. Elevate the inner pot on stones, so that water will collect at the bottom of the larger container.
3. DON’T use soil directly from the garden. As tempting as it is to dig up some backyard dirt and throw it into a container, potted plants need drainage. Look for potting mixes that have vermiculite, peat moss, compose, perlite or a combination.
4. DON’T pat the soil down after scooping it into the pot. Looser soil is easier on the roots.
5. DON’T forget to mulch. Pots in full sun will benefit from a layer of mulch to help the soil retain moisture and discourage weeds.
6. DO stake tall plants. Vining plants such as morning glories and tomatoes will need a stake or small trellis for support. Add the support right when you plant so you don’t disturb the roots later.
7. DO use containers to experiment with planting in different parts of your yard. Try a new plant on a small scale, or test a shady spot to see how well certain plants will perform with little sun.
A Perfect Container Combo
Stick to basics with the “thriller, spiller, filler” concept.
Thriller: a plant that adds height, drama and vertical appeal. Try ornamental grass or coleus.
Spiller: a plant placed near the rim of the pot to grow downward or “spill.” Try petunia, sweet potato vine or nasturtium.
Filler: a rounded plant or mound of plants to fill in bare spots. Try lantana or heliotrope.
Sam says
Would be great if article picture informed: how/where to purchase the featured container, types of containers for varying weather conditions, since certain container materials can’t be left out under the freeze temp.
James says
A lot of people do not know that looser soil is easier on the roots and they tend to pat soil down tight, making it very compact.
Shirley Mather says
I enjoy container planting and appreciate your tips. Thanks for sharing the article.
Sylvia says
I find that most of the potting soils Ia used not only drain faster, but are way too dry and more saw dust like in texture than any other types of soil. I always wonder how any plant in potting soil can get any nutrients at all with having to water so often. I use parts of the manure added, type soils in my pots and it works well. Can’t use just plain dirt here as we have clay and rocks.
Iris Villafane says
I use potting soil for my plants (perennials and annuals) that are potted in pots year round. I add granular fertilizer in with the soil and a soluble fertilizer with water when the pot needs watering. Mircle Grow potting soil is a good choice but I have found that there are other good potting soils sold that work just as good. Home Depot and Lowe’s brand work good too.
Miller David says
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Nat says
I applaud you on all points except the last one. Lantana should NEVER be used in a mixed pot or planted near any plant in the ground either. The root of Lantana puts off a toxic hormone that will kill any nearby plants, so that it has no competition for water or nutrients. You set up your whole container for death if you include Lantana.