How to Buy and Use Planters

Where did we go wrong? Why is it that wherever you look all you see are boring old plants housed in boring old pots and the whole thing just looks tired? Even the poor plants look like they wished they were somewhere else.

So, we are going to dump our old way of thinking and start looking at planters in a whole new light.

Lesson 1: ANYTHING can be a planter.

Did you know that? Open your mind and eyes and discover that virtually anything can be made into a planter. Old watering cans, bird cages, colanders, olive oil cans, enamel ware, old camping cups, wheelbarrows, old sinks, buckets, baskets, vegetable soup cans, canning jars and even boots! Heck, I’ve even seen a rusty old bed frame turned into a trellis with a gorgeous wisteria hanging over the headboard.

Lesson 2: What do plants need?

Air, sun, shade, water, nutrients and love. Your plant needs to thrive. It doesn’t want to look weak, tired and sickly but vibrant, full and lush. Before planting, make sure you know your plant – what it likes, what it dislikes. Does it like to sunbathe most of the day or does it get the vapors at temperatures above 65 degrees? Does it like dry soil or would it rather have its toes damp? You will have the most success with your plant if you put the plant where it is happiest: something that resembles its natural habitat. Simple.

Lesson 3: Match your plant to the planter.

Don’t put a great big geranium in an itty-bitty pot. The geranium is going to feel crowded, the pot will dry out too quickly, you’ll be watering all the time, and in a month both you and that geranium are going to be unhappy!

Like people, plants like room to grow. Whatever you choose as your planter, try to get one that is at least 2” wider and 2” deeper than your plant. Very few plants like to be root-bound. How would you like having to wear shoes two sizes too small every day?

Lesson 4: Group your plantings.

Unless you have a spectacular specimen that just steals the show, most flowers, foliage and bulbs look their best when they are placed together. Use the odd rule: group in 3s, 5s, 7s, etc. Plants get lonely too, so place them among friends!

Lesson 5: Materials…

There are so many materials to choose from nowadays. If you are considering store-bought containers, here are a few tips to remember when deciding what type of planter material is best for your needs and for the needs of your plant.

Resin and Fiberglass – Lightweight, inexpensive, easy to move and virtually unbreakable. Holds moisture in longer so you don’t have to water as frequently.

Clay – Traditional clay pots are hard to beat, but they do have their downsides. They dry out quickly, which means you are going to be watering more. They are heavy, so if you like to move your plants around, you better invest in a caster or you’ll be in trouble. They can break and chip. Not good if you have little grandkids or dogs running around. (This I learned from personal experience!)

Wood – Looks charming and lends a rustic, country air. Wood can rot, though, if it’s not treated. It’s really better to elevate a wooden planter, as it needs air circulation underneath to keep the wood from warping.

So, as you can see, your only planter limitation is your brain. Cameo gardens, hanging gardens, color-splash plantings, themed gardens; the possibilities, like planters and plants, are endless. Have fun, experiment and let’s get growing!

Copyright 2006 www.OutdoorDecor.com