space , having the right colour combinations may be even more important than in a larger garden . Having colours that clash creates disharmony .
● Vary the heights . Having the containers all the same size and shape , or having all the plants at the same height , does not appeal . Having different shapes , sizes , and heights creates interest and draws the eye to the garden .
● Layer the containers . By layering , I mean tall containers and plants to the back , medium height in the middle , and smallest at the very front . Using this method allows all plants to be seen and appreciated .
● Add vertical dimensions . Don ’ t garden in one plane , the horizontal . By adding the vertical dimension to your garden through a trellis and climbing plants , you expand your garden to its full potential . There are some great annual vines for you to consider adding to your plan that will do very well in containers .
● Add an anchor . Adding a large plant as a focal point or anchor will help to add interest . Consider using an indoor plant such as a palm or hibiscus as the focal point .
● Plan groupings . While grouping the plants is important because it creates areas of interest , you will need to avoid overcrowding . Overcrowding in a small space encourages disease and insect problems . Consider grouping containers rather than overstuffing one container .
● Pick the plants . Choose the right plant for the right application . If your exposure is one that does not get full sun , do not force a sun-loving plant to perform in such conditions . Do your homework and make sure the plant is the right one for the level of exposure and that its size is what you want . Trying to grow a 100 cm plant at the front of a container will leave no space for interest in the rest of the container .
● Consider blooming . Another factor to consider when doing your homework is bloom time . If you are looking for a planter to give constant bloom , make sure the bloom times reflect this .
● Don ’ t be intimidated by a lack of space . Gardening in small spaces is very much about scaling down . Research and seek out dwarf varieties of plants and materials that are appropriate for your space . There are a wide variety of annuals suitable for this type of container garden .
● Think about augmenting existing space with container gardens . If you have a small backyard with a deck , you should definitely include the deck as you plan where to plant things through the use of containers . If all you have is a balcony or a deck , you should be thinking in terms of the most efficient use of containers . Do you want to use long window-box-like containers that may use space more efficiently or more decorative , traditional pots ?
● Use fences or balcony railings not only as screens , but as planters themselves . Think about growing plants on the fences as climbers . Roses , clematis , morning glory , canary vine , and honeysuckle are examples of flowering vines .
Dare to be bold !
Gerald Filipski , our gardening columnist for almost five years , reminds us of a quote from Luther Burbank , “ Flowers always make people better , happier , and more helpful ; they are sunshine , food , and medicine for the soul .”
news & views SPRING 2022 | 21