What To Plant In Large Outdoor Planters

What to Plant in Large Outdoor Planters

Large outdoor planters can significantly enhance a garden, patio, or balcony, providing a versatile platform for showcasing a wide array of plant life. The increased volume compared to smaller containers opens possibilities for creating visually impactful arrangements and cultivating plants that require more space for root development. Selecting the appropriate plants for these large containers depends on several factors, including climate, sunlight exposure, desired aesthetic, and maintenance commitment. Careful consideration of these elements will ensure thriving plants and a beautiful outdoor space.

The success of any planting project hinges on proper preparation. Before selecting plants, the drainage and soil quality within the planter must be addressed. Ensure the planter has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The soil mixture should be well-draining and nutrient-rich, typically a combination of potting soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite. The specific ratio may vary depending on the plants selected, but prioritizing drainage and fertility is paramount.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Climate and Sunlight

Climate and sunlight are crucial determinants in plant selection. Regions with hot, dry summers necessitate drought-tolerant plants, while cooler, wetter climates can support plants that prefer more moisture. Similarly, plants that thrive in full sun will struggle in shady locations, and vice versa. Understanding the specific conditions of the planting area is the first step in making informed plant choices.

For areas with ample sunlight (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day), consider plants such as sun-loving perennials like coneflowers (Echinacea), black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), and daylilies (Hemerocallis). These plants offer vibrant blooms and attract pollinators. Annuals like petunias, geraniums, and zinnias are also excellent choices for adding seasonal color. For a more dramatic effect, consider incorporating ornamental grasses like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora), which provide texture and movement.

In shady areas (less than four hours of direct sunlight per day), focus on shade-tolerant plants. Hostas are a classic choice, offering a wide variety of leaf shapes, sizes, and colors. Ferns, such as maidenhair ferns (Adiantum) or Japanese painted ferns (Athyrium niponicum pictum), provide elegant foliage. Impatiens, begonias, and coleus are annuals that thrive in shade and offer colorful blooms or foliage. For a taller element, consider planting astilbes, which produce feathery plumes of flowers.

For areas with partial shade (four to six hours of direct sunlight per day, typically in the morning), a wider range of plants can be grown. Hydrangeas, particularly varieties that tolerate some sun, are a popular choice. Coral bells (Heuchera) offer colorful foliage and delicate flowers. Bleeding hearts (Dicentra) provide unique heart-shaped blooms in the spring. Annuals like pansies and violas also perform well in partial shade, especially during cooler months.

Creating Visually Appealing Plant Combinations

Beyond individual plant selection, the arrangement of plants within the container plays a significant role in the overall aesthetic. A well-designed planter incorporates a variety of textures, colors, and heights to create visual interest. One common strategy is to follow the "thriller, filler, spiller" approach.

The "thriller" is the focal point of the arrangement, typically a tall or visually striking plant. Examples include ornamental grasses, small shrubs, or tall flowering plants. The "filler" plants surround the thriller, providing a backdrop and adding volume. These plants are typically smaller and have a more rounded or mounded shape. Examples include petunias, geraniums, or leafy greens. The "spiller" plants trail over the edge of the container, softening the edges and adding a cascading effect. Examples include trailing petunias, sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas), or creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia).

Consider the color palette when selecting plants. Monochromatic arrangements, using different shades of the same color, can be elegant and sophisticated. Complementary color combinations, using colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue and orange, red and green), create a bold and vibrant effect. Analogous color combinations, using colors that are next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue, green, and turquoise), create a harmonious and calming effect.

Pay attention to the texture of the plants. Combining plants with different leaf shapes and textures, such as feathery ferns, smooth hostas, and spiky grasses, adds visual interest. Consider the overall form of the plants. Combining upright, spreading, and trailing plants creates a dynamic and balanced arrangement.

Maintenance Considerations for Large Planters

Maintaining large outdoor planters requires consistent effort, although the larger soil volume generally reduces the frequency of watering compared to smaller containers. Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Using a moisture meter can help determine when watering is necessary.

Fertilize regularly to provide the plants with the nutrients they need to thrive. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer applied every few weeks. The specific fertilizer requirements will vary depending on the plants selected, so consult the plant's care instructions. Remove spent flowers and foliage regularly to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. This process, known as deadheading, prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production and encourages it to produce more blooms.

Inspect plants regularly for pests and diseases. Address any problems promptly to prevent them from spreading. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases can include powdery mildew, fungal leaf spots, and root rot. Use appropriate pesticides or fungicides, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. In some cases, removing the affected plants may be necessary to prevent the spread of disease.

Overwintering plants in large planters depends on the climate and the hardiness of the plants. Tender perennials and annuals typically cannot survive freezing temperatures and must be brought indoors or treated as annuals. Hardy perennials may be able to survive the winter outdoors, but they may require some protection, such as mulching around the base of the plant or wrapping the planter in burlap. In very cold climates, it may be necessary to move the planter to a sheltered location, such as a garage or shed.

Large planters, due to their size and weight, can be difficult to move. Consider using a planter dolly or a set of casters to make them easier to maneuver. This is particularly important if you need to move the planters indoors for the winter or rearrange them for different seasons.

Soil in large planters can become compacted over time, reducing drainage and aeration. Replenish the soil every few years to maintain its fertility and drainage properties. This can be done by removing the plants, amending the soil with compost and other organic matter, and then replanting. Alternatively, simply adding a layer of compost to the top of the soil each year can help improve its fertility.

The choice of planter material can also affect maintenance. Terra cotta planters are porous and can dry out quickly, requiring more frequent watering. Plastic planters are less porous and retain moisture better, but they can also overheat in direct sunlight. Concrete planters are heavy and durable, but they can also be difficult to move. Choose a planter material that is appropriate for the climate and the plants you are growing.

By carefully considering climate, sunlight, plant combinations, and maintenance requirements, large outdoor planters can become a stunning and rewarding addition to any outdoor space. The possibilities are virtually endless, allowing for a personalized and ever-changing display of natural beauty.