What to Plant in a Large Outdoor Pot

When it comes to designing an outdoor space, large planters can quickly become a focal point. A well-placed pot can add color, texture, and height to any garden area. However, selecting the right plants to fill your container can be overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, it's important to consider a few factors to ensure success:

Size Matters

The first thing to consider is the size of the pot. It's essential to choose a container large enough to accommodate the plants you've selected fully. When selecting a pot, consider its depth and width. The size of the root ball will determine how much space you need. Additionally, larger pots will hold moisture longer than smaller ones, which is something to keep in mind when picking plants.

Choose Your Plants

When selecting plants for your outdoor pot, consider their growth habits. Tall, spiky plants like grasses or cannas add height and drama to a container garden. Mix them with low-growing plants like petunias, lobelia, or creeping Jenny for a burst of color. Containers are a perfect place to mix and match annuals, perennials, herbs, and vegetables. It creates a beautiful, functional garden space in a small area.

Beyond the Annuals

It's essential to consider more than just annuals when selecting plants for your pot. Many perennials, shrubs, and small trees work well in containers. Dwarf fruit trees, such as citrus, make great container plants, as well as herbs like rosemary, thyme, or lavender that thrive in well-draining soil. Small shrubs like boxwood or dwarf Alberta spruce can add some structure to your container garden.

Soil and Watering Considerations

Lastly, it's essential to consider soil and watering when planting. It is a good idea to mix some compost with potting soil to provide the nutrients the plants will need. Also, ensure that the pot you choose has adequate drainage holes at the bottom of the container. The best planting mix for large outdoor pots includes potting mix, compost, and soil. This mixture, along with the right selection of plants, can make a beautiful container garden that adds intrigue and color to your outdoor living area.

Conclusion

Selecting the right plants for a large outdoor pot requires some planning and consideration. However, it's an exciting opportunity to create a beautiful and personalized garden space. When choosing plants, consider growth habits, watering, and soil requirements. Once you've chosen the perfect plants for your pot, you'll enjoy a stunning and lively container garden for years to come.