Home & Garden Tips
Planning is Key to Container Gardening
By Roosevelt McWilliams County Extension Agent

Container gardening has been practiced by different cultures for thousands of years. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all realized the benefits of planting in containers. Containers are ideal for planting when ground space is unavailable or undesirable. Tender plants can be moved indoors in inclement weather.

With containers we can bring color, texture and scent up close where they can truly be appreciated. Using the basic prin- ciples of garden design, it is possible to create a successful container garden to dazzle all of our senses.

Whether you prefer a formal or informal style of gardening, you must always be aware of the style you are trying to achieve at any particular time. A formal design requires symmetrical balance and rigid structuring of plants. An informal design is more free and natural in appearance like a country meadow. Most open-ground gardeners use a combination of the two styles and container gardening is no different.

You may want a symmetrical planting on either side of your front door to create a sense of balance on the exterior of your home. On the other hand, you may want a more informal cottage garden in the backyard surrounding your patio where you can enjoy a wider variety of plants.

Planning is the key to creating a four-season garden using containers. Carefully consider which plants will create the look you desire and for the longest bloom season. Most perennials only bloom for a few weeks a year. The rest of the time you may not want that container taking up prime viewing space. You can keep the container in an obscure location and move it into view when in bloom or you may choose not to include a plant with such a limited performance time.

There will be peaks to every plant's performance. The trick is to plan your container garden for interest. The use of interesting foliage plants can be a key element here. Look for plants with unusual color or texture in the leaves. By interplanting these beauties in your containers, the eye will naturally turn to them when blooms have faded.

Create your designs for optimum visual effect. Blend and contrast color, shape and texture. With color you can create harmonious, restful vistas or exciting, show-stopping displays. Even monochromatic planting can make a bold statement. Use contrasting shapes, such as tall, spiky blooms with short, round ones. Broad, glossy leaves contrast nicely with soft feathery foliage.

Remember to consider bloom time when selecting plants. You'll want a well-rounded supply of plants for each season.