Layers & textured planets make their own statement.
How big is too big? Planted tree containers for a big impact.
sunlight. Annuals labeled for “shade” usually require protection from the afternoon sun but can handle some morning sun. In addition to sunlight, also consider if the planter will be up against the house and only viewed from the front or if it will be viewed from all angles. If a planter is only viewed from one direction, you might want to place the tallest plant in the back of the planter, whereas if you will be viewing the planter from all directions, you may want to place the tallest plant in the center. 3. What color scheme are you trying to achieve? Color can come from both blooms and foliage. One option could be a monochromatic scheme with varying blooms in shades of one color. You may want to do complementary colors, or colors across from one another on the color wheel such as purple and yellow. If you are wanting as many colors or possible, choose all different colors of the rainbow. 4. Have you used a variety of textures and achieved enough contrast? Annuals come in a variety of textures in terms of their foliage. Some are fern-like, while others have larger waxy leaves. Some foliage is grey while some is deep purple. Many plants are variegated, and some have a lime green hue.
Using a variety of textures in a variety of colors adds the element of contrast, adding more depth to your container’s design.
Now that your containers are planted and flourishing don’t forget regular trimming and deadheading to help keep your annuals healthy and blooming. Happy planting and enjoy the rest of your summer surrounded by the beautiful containers you created! Colonial Gardens is a premier Garden and Event Center in Blue Springs. We offer a variety of classes and workshops where our experts love sharing their knowledge about all things green! You can check out our upcoming classes and events at www. colonialgardenskc.com. Follow us on Facebook @colonialgardenskc for more tips and find everything you need for your summer planting at our newly renovated Garden and Event Center! ^
5. Is your container balanced? While not all containers have to be a
symmetrical design, try to evenly disperse the plants throughout the container. If you are using foliage accents, disperse the blooming plants throughout the container, as well. 6. Have you used a variety of heights? Many containers follow the standard “thriller, filler, spiller” design with the tallest plant in the center or back, and the plants gradually become shorter or more trailing in nature as they move toward the front or edges of the container. This helps shorter plants to remain visible and prevents the plants from being all the same height, adding interest to your design. 7. Are you watering correctly? Watering your container correctly is the most imperative element of a successful container. More is not better in terms of watering. Overwatering can be detrimental to plant health and it can cause rotting and weakening of the plant. Weaker plants are more susceptible to disease and insect infestation. Water when you feel the soil in your container begins to dry out. It’s also important to not let your container dry out to the point of wilting.
Pops of color in colorful containers make a cheery statement.
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