Choosing the Right Plant for Your Container: Not as Hard as You Think
Plants are relatively easy to grow if their fundamental needs are met and satisfied. Keeping a watchful eye on pests, diseases, and malnutrition will ensure your plants health and beauty.
Bear in mind one aspect though. If you are planting your personal perennials, annuals, shrubs, bushes, or vines when they are immature, you must visualize how they will appear when fully grown and matured. Immature plant dimensions can be misleading because they have no relation to the final full height of the mature plant.
Not sure what plant to put in your plantings? Follow this planting guide and find out how to take care and maintain your plants so that they look in pristine condition all the season long. The following plant descriptions are my favorite picks and contains a bit of information on which containers are ideal candidates:
Cupaniana
This is an evergreen perennial that looks great in stone, terracotta, or wood containers. It spreads very quickly and produces silvery filigree foliage. Shear off the first set of blooming flowers, when they are over, to encourage a healthy second set. Be sure to keep this plant away from wet and cold conditions and provide good drainage in any container you place it in.
Alyogyne Huegelii
This evergreen shrub spurts out beautiful silky blue petals that unfurl into a saucer like shape. Standing planters will augment and increase the appeal of the flowers when they start to bloom. Try to pinch off the shoots as early in the blooming season as possible to encourage a bushier bush with greater number of flowers.
Begonia “Fire Flush”
This plant displays large ornamental foliage that is beautifully off set by metal or synthetic containers. Metal containers are an ideal candidate to create a contemporary feel in your garden, greenhouse, or home. These plants are susceptible to death if left in temperatures below 48° F (9° C). Best time to plant is when danger of frost has passed away.
Bacopa “White Sutties 98”
This plant may seem tiny with its small flowers and foliage but it creates a great impact when placed within the correct container. Terracotta and clay containers really enhance the white pedals and yellow centers plus their overflowing nature creates a prestigious atmosphere. Other varieties include pink and lavender colored flowers that look great in stone or clay containers.
Bidens Ferulifolia “Golden Star”
The “Golden Star” is a tender perennial that is compact and re grows rapidly when cut back. This plant will appear to be the best when planted in wooden or synthetic containers. Since the plant is prone to frost damage, plant them during the late spring or early summer.
Canna Orange Flower
There are many Canna hybrids available for purchase in any reputable nursery. These are fast growing plants that require full sunlight to grow properly. These plants are really beautiful in clay or synthetic containers. Terracotta or other orange colored clay containers really accentuate the plants orange flowers. Synthetic containers are good because they protect against the plants number one enemy; frost.
Carex “Sparkler”
The leaves of this plant are arranged in swirls around a thick stem. Best containers to place this plant in are synthetic or wood. It is best if you can get a low container because the real beauty of this plant is observed when looked down upon. To promote a healthy plant, water and feed it regularly.
Convolvulus Cneorum
This plant is shrubby that sprouts out silver, evergreen foliage and stunning white flowers. The flowers are known to grow from late spring to autumn. Containers that complement this plant would have to be either metal or stone. If planting in stone container, grab some luscious green grass and smear it across the planter to give it an aged look. This plant requires full sun and proper drainage to grow properly. Remember that the drier and sunnier the environment the plant is placed in, the more intense the leaf color.
Dahlia “Roxy”
Certain Dahlia varieties are much too large to be placed in container plantings but this “Roxy” version is perfect because it only grows to a maximum height of 16 inches. Hanging baskets are best because they do not distract from the flowers stunning magenta pedals and black leaves. These plants need constant watering and grow well in either full sun or partial shade.
Hebe “Quicksilver”
This plant has tiny grey leaves and a wiry black stem that does not stand out in awe unless the right planter is used. I’d recommended a rounded synthetic container that is either black or dark blue to accentuate the grey leaves. Placing them in groupings with similar plants and containers will build an overall richness to the plantings. This plant requires full sun and the leaf color will change based on how dry the conditions are.
Impatiens “Accent Cranberry”
This plant is ideal for creating a rich full display because of the vibrant reds it posses. Clay and synthetics containers are ideal candidates for this plant. The clay containers augment the rich colors of the flower pedals to provide a display that is easy on the eye. Synthetic containers are notable mentions because of the protection it provides. “Accent Cranberry” is a frost tender perennial and will most likely die off, even in the home, if exposed to cold conditions. Most synthetic containers are frost and cold resistant and placing this planting within it will provide that extra needed protection. This plant must be watered regularly and is best grown in a shady area.
Isoplexis Canariensis
This plant adds height to any container because of its colorful upright flower spikes. Very easily grown, this plant only requires a sunny growing area and well fed potting mix. This tender perennial requires temperatures of 41° F (5° C) to establish proper growth. I find that this plant looks best in hanging from a basket, preferably within a black colored basket, grouped with other plants such as Canna Hybrids to provide a fuller striking display.
Isotoma Axillaris
Utilizing this plant develops romantic and tranquil moods with its pink and white flowers. It has a gentle nature and usually is used as filler amongst other plants in the same container. Dark stone or clay containers are ideal for this planting because the containers accent the plants light colors. You can even group this pretty plant with other plantings, such as “White Suttis 98” and Solanum, to create a fuller and striking display.
Lyemus Arenarius
This distinctive perennial possess coarse, blue, grassy leaves and an invasive nature if planted around other perennials or annuals. Planting it within a square wooden container will provide a unique display that plays on light hues and develops a clean and sharp effect. This perennial will withstand hot and dry conditions but does not grow well in wet potting mix.
Lavandula “Fathead”
Lavenders are excellent container plants because they can withstand dry conditions very well. This compact plant consists of rounded flower heads plus there are several different sized and colored variations available. I recommend utilizing fiber glass or wooden containers for this planting. Dark, large, and smooth containers are ideal characteristics to accent the light pinks and dark purples of the flower heads. Lavenders grow well in sunny areas and need occasional deadheading to promote a healthy second bloom.
Nigrescens
This hardy perennial can be used very effectively when placed within small displays. It works well with both tender and hardy perennials and its black color goes well with whites and grays. White stone or grey synthetic containers are perfect to create a distinctive display. I find that adding other plants, such as “Blackie” or “Zwartkop”, within the same container provides warmth and fullness. Nigrescens can be grown easily in either the ground or within container plantings but requires full sun to properly develop.
Opuntia Lindheimeri
Developing a cactus like appearance, this succulent possess some of the most structural and elemental characteristics available in plants today. Its extreme adaptation to dry harsh conditions makes it an ideal candidate to be placed in a container by itself as an individual specimen. As this plant matures and grows, it becomes very top heavy. Therefore metal containers, preferably light colored, are ideal homes for this type of plant. The ridged and sharp metal pot beautifully complements the sharp spikes and ridged shape of the plant. The plant must be placed within a well drained container out in full sun and watered consistently during the summer season.
Mimulus Aurantiacus
This shrub is not known for its shiny, sticky leaves but for its soft colored flower pedals. I recommend placing this plant within a dark colored tall metal container to accentuate the warm colors of the plant. Adding other plantings such as Viola “Apricot” or “Serena” within the same container will aid in developing a warm inviting atmosphere. Make sure that the planter is wide and has enough capacity to hold a large amount of potting mix. This will ensure a healthy and stunning display.
Nicotiana “Lime Green”
There are many variations within the Nicotiana species but none as striking or unique as this. The plants itself is not small. Bear in mind that when this plant grows, it will mature to a height around 24 inches (60cm). Synthetic or clay ceramic containers are ideal but only if they have a smooth finish. This will create a majestic, prestigious display but only if other plants are added. Taller plants, such as Cordyline Australis, will prevent the display from looking squat and short.
Osteospermum “Serena”
Color varieties of this plant range from pinks, purples, yellows, to whites. Newer variations are much better for smaller arrangements because of its compact size. Stone or faux stone containers that are large and tall are great for this planting. To make the display fuller and provide subtle textures and tones of browns and reds, add a second plant. A good planting that goes will with the shape and texture of the overall display is Solenostemon hybrid.
Petunia “Blue Trailing”
Blue flowered container plantings are a rare occurrence and the blue Petunia possess a great mix of foliage and flower that does not dominate the planting. The plant should be deadheaded regularly to encourage healthy blooming all season long. This plant will die off very quickly if exposed to frost or extreme cold. This plant looks best when planted in a wide but short wooden container. Adding an overflowing plant, such as Lotus Hirsutus, will ensure the display looking fuller; even from above!! Furthermore, adding groupings of similar plantings and planters will beside each other will develop solid, enjoyable display.
Pelargonium “Sassy Dark Red”
This plant is very compact and perfect for small container arrangements. The most notable feature of this plant is the intensity of its crimson colored flowers. Eye catching and unique, the amount of saturation in each flower head is enough to draw the attention of any passer by. Plants with rich colors like this require regular watering and deadheading. It further requires full sun and will not grow properly if exposed to temperatures below 39° F (4° C). Metal containers, preferably bronze, black, or silver colored, will create a striking piece of modern sculpture that is both inspirational and challenging.
Persicaria “Red Dragon”
This plant produces amazing foliage but is a nuisance when placed near other plants because it sends outs shoots that intertwines itself with the roots of other plants. It is best to leave this planting in a pot by itself. It requires moist potting mix, full sun, and regular watering to develop leaves with a shiny luster. A dark colored metal container will provide depth and a contemporary feel to any area it’s placed in.
“Nishiki – Buki”
This Japanese decent plant has a very commanding presence in the garden. It can produce leaves that can be up to 24 inches (60 cm) in diameter. If planted in the ground, it can spread like wildfire through your garden. Planting it within a container is the best way you can enjoy its foliage. Water it often and place it within shady areas. I find that placing it within a dark colored iron standing basket makes the large leaves stand out. Try grouping similar plants and containers together to provide interest for the viewer.
Petunia “Million Bells” Red
This species of plants have dozens of different varieties but these small flowered Petunias are more favored in the container gardening world because gardeners feel it is easier to use them within intimate planting arrangements. These plants bloom beautiful red colored pedals with a hint of yellow. Although you should water them regularly, proper growth guidelines indicate that wet potting mix is not good for them. Do not over water them and do not place them in shade, rather in full sunlight. Small stocky fiberglass containers are best for this plant because they match the small scale and proportions of the plantings.
“Variegatum”
This evergreen plant comprises strikingly beautiful yellow and green rigid leaves. It provides structural stability and can be used as the centerpiece of a planting arrangement. This plant requires constant watering, especially during the summer time, and should be positioned under full sunlight to establish proper growth. This plant can withstand temperatures of 23° F (-5° C) but I wouldn’t advise exposing it to those conditions. Fiber glass or clay containers that have similar colors as the plant will work in any area. Pair similar pots together to bring more awareness to your display. I like using containers of different heights to add a bit more flavor to the display.
Petunia “Prism Sunshine”
This plant produces a beautiful flower with white pedals and a swirl of yellow in the center. It provides a soft effect and is cross bred to be much more resistant to wind and rain. Deadheading is always a good idea with all Petunia species to encourage a healthy second bloom. This particular plant can grow well in either partial shade or full sunlight. Although this species of Petunia is resistant to wind and rain it is not however impervious to frost. Treat it as an annual and discard it at the end of the season. I find that a metal container will house this plant the best because it provides excellent foil for the flowers and foliage and the solid structure plays well on the delicate flowers. Adding a taller plant always keeps the display in proportion so I would recommend utilizing the “Kentish Belle”.
“Variegated Mintleaf”
This is easier to plant then some of the more traditional “trailing nepeta”, which suffers a lot from mildew and pest infestation. The arching stems are very prestigious and leaves are soft and fleshy. The “Variegated Mintleaf” is very easy and simple to plant and only requires occasional watering in either full sunlight or partial shade. I recommend a fairly tall and wide white fiber glass container because it would be soothing and also provide coolness. When relying on foliage for effect, such as with this plant, it is important to consider choosing a plant can hold a substantial volume of potting mix. Add the tall “Variegatum” plant to give the display some height.
Plectranthus Argentatus
This plant is a textural delight. Since it consists of neutral colors, it will work well with almost any type of plant or planter. As usual, water often to maintain a healthy plant but keep it away from windy areas because the stems are likely to snap. Requires full sunlight and temperatures between 46° F and 50° F (8-10° C) to properly grow. A smooth surfaced, gray or white colored, short fiber glass container is good but placing other foliage rich plants in the same container such as “Silver Falls” or “Quicksilver” would transcend the display into excellence.
Salvia Splendens “Purple”
This plant is a breath of fresh air versus the dirty white or weak pink varieties. Although not very elegant, this plant does provide a solid purple color that is noticeable from a distance. Treat it as a normal annual, do not expose to frost conditions, and place it in full sunlight. I find that combining two plants, such as this plant with “Diamond Merci”, within one container makes the display more distinctive and unique. A two tier basket stand is a perfect container for these plantings and placing it on terraces so the overflowing stems trail down creates an eye-catching design either indoors or out.
Silene Uniflora “Swan Lake”
This plant is as elegant as it is tough. It consists of small blue leaves, long reddish stems, and fluffy white double pompon flowers. To develop a great looking plant, water frequently and provide good drainage. This plant was originally found growing on the seaside so it is very resistant to wind, sun, and dryness but you should still not expose it to those conditions. I find that repeating this plant with different varieties of other plantings, such as Leymus Arenarius or Convolvulus Cneorum, makes the display look balanced and not bottom or top heavy. Manchester square white planters are a perfect choice because you get a set of three varying sized planters that will add touch of volume and texture to any area.
Salvia Farinacea “Victoria”
Known for its rich lavender colored flowers and bushy foliage, the upright shape of this herbaceous perennial can be seen along walkways, country sides, and even along the sides of roads. It requires full sunlight and no exposure to frost to develop into a mature plant. The Iron and Willow Chair Planter is the best type of container for this plant because of the slim structure and trough design. To really bring attention to the planter grow trailing plants, such as “Ann Folkard”, so that they flow over the sides and give the container a stable structure.
“Black Lace”
This planting is very useful when creating a wispy type effect in your garden during the summer season. The “Black Lace” is a hardy deciduous shrub that produces rich purple foliage and is ideal for small arrangements in containers. You should place it in full sunlight or partial shade but prune it back to about 12 inches (30 cm) in height at the end of the summer season. Do not expose to cold conditions as should be placed indoors during the winter season. To really play on the height of the plant, it should be placed within a standing decorative basket. To spread and diffuse a depth of color and style for the display, consider using “Trailing Red” Petunia’s.
Solenostemon Hybrid
This plant has several hundred different varieties and hybrids available at any credible garden center. The leaves of this plant emit a vibrant deep crimson color with a hint of yellow around its borders. Only grows best in full sunlight and above temperatures of 45° F (7° C). Do not expose this planting to strong winds as it will break the stems and snap off the branches. I find that a Willow Wall Basket with Welcome Sign is the best type of container for this plant because it can be hung on your front door to introduce your guests to a beautiful and commanding foliage arrangement. I find adding a second taller plant, such as Osteospermum “Serena”, evens out the display and won’t make it seem short and stocky.
“Black Prince”
Leafy matt varieties of this plant are very effective in a container display. Single colored varieties are easy to work with because the flowers are small. Feed and water regularly and place the plant in either full sunlight or partial shade. Grows best in temperatures above 45° F (7° C). A stone pedestal planter will really play on the black and white themes of the plant and container. Adding a second plant, such as Lotus Hirsulus, will give the display a fuller appearance and develop a soft, grey and black planting skirt around the lip of the pot.
Thunbergia Alata
If you want to develop some background height for your container display, this climbing plant will be your best bet. This plant is known to reach heights of 5 ft (1.5 m) during a long growing season. This tender perennial should be treated as an annual and should be planted indoors during the cold winter season. Do not expose to winter conditions below 45° F (7° C). Terracotta styled decorative urn is an ideal container for this planting. You can place three long thin pieces of branches in a triangular shape and wrap the plant around it to provide the container with a bit of height. Also adding Petunia “White” and “Variegatus” plants will add density and fullness.
Solenostemon “Winter Sun”
Single colored variations are simple and easy to work with and make excellent center piece specimens. This plant exhibits rapid growth when placed within rich potting mix and under direct sunlight. To give it a really healthy appearance, feed regularly with plant food and be weary that the potting mix does not become too dry. Pinch out young flower buds to encourage rapid growth. A fiber glass constructed urn is best for this plant because the container is tall, robust, and makes the display appear well balanced. The color should be preferably darker to play on the light orange color of the plants foliage.
Tibouchina Urvilleana
Flashy and flamboyant, this shrub creates wonderful effects when placed outdoors next to similar grouping of plants. The large, exotic, purple and dark blue colored flowers makes this planting an ideal candidate to be placed by itself as a centerpiece. This shrub can grown and spread like wildfire so it should be cut down with the start of each spring season. Place in full sunlight and do not expose to temperatures below 47° F (5° C). This plant will look great in fiber glass weave designed urn. The large and wide base of this container gives it a commanding presence and adding a second planting, such as “Ann Folkard”, will not distract from the original planting.
Viola “Apricot”
The Viola species are particularly beautiful during the winter time because its bold patches of color are about the only thing you will see during the cold season. This plant requires full sunlight and should be carefully examined for aphids. I would place it within a wall trough with liner container to provide a relaxed, cottage type feel. The trough has plenty of space for potting mix so adding one or two more plants is not a bad idea. I would avoid mixing different type of colors. Utilizing similar hues and contrasts provides a unified and designer look.
Viola “Bowles Black”
Although short lived, this annual plant adds a touch of distinction in any of your container plantings. Although a very eye catching planting, it is prone to severe attacks from aphids and mildew. These pests and diseases distort and destroy the growth of this annual. It is important to water, feed, and examine the plant regularly to ensure proper growth.