Many gardeners assume that one cup of potting soil is sufficient to plant a plant in large outdoor flower pots. It is important to remember that the soil must be about a quarter of the way up the pot in order to drain properly. Filling the pot to 100% will compress the soil and prevent proper drainage, leading to mold and drowning your flowers. Read this article for more tips on planting in large outdoor flower pots.
Planting trees in flower pots
Before planting a tree in a pot, make sure that you carefully measure the size of the root ball. You may want to add pea gravel to the bottom of the container to create a solid layer of soil underneath the root ball. Your tree should be about 2 inches below the rim of the pot. Its root ball should be about the same size as its nursery pot. Make sure that the soil level in the pot matches the depth of the root ball.
A tree that has a root-bound pot is unlikely to grow well in a pot. If it does not grow as tall as you would like it to, you can purchase a smaller-sized tree, but make sure that it has the space to grow roots. Larger pots are best for larger trees, as they reduce stress caused by changing soil temperatures and moisture. For the best results, make sure that the pots you purchase are at least 20 inches wide.
Choosing a planter
One of the biggest challenges in selecting a large outdoor flower pot is lifting it with soil inside. Not only is this impractical, it is also bad for the plants and your back. To avoid these problems, it is important to carefully consider where you plan to place the pot. Take into consideration the amount of sun and shade that your patio will receive. For this reason, you will need to choose plants that can tolerate both. For added protection, make sure that the planters complement the siding of your home.
While choosing a large outdoor flower pot, take the time to think about the type of plant to place inside. Plants that spill over the sides of the pot are known as spillers. Try to choose vines or trailing lobelia, as they can spill their foliage over the sides. For more information, you can read this article on plant types. The following guide will help you choose the right plant for your outdoor flower pot.
Choosing a filler
When choosing a filler, you should keep drainage in mind. It’s best to choose something that will allow for water to drain away easily, rather than an item that will retain water. Water will breed bacteria and root rot in plants. Mixing materials together will make for a better fill. You can even use landscaping fabric to protect your plants and prevent soil from falling into the filler material.
A good filler should soften the shape of the pot, while also creating a connection between it and its surroundings. A well-chosen spiller will echo or contrast the other plants in the container, adding a nice balance to the design. In the following image, a well-balanced container planting features a New Zealand flax as the thriller and salvia as the filler.
Choosing a container
Choosing a large outdoor flower pot container is as important as choosing the right size. In order to encourage plant growth and productivity, bright colors are best. Consider the color scheme of your garden, fence, and accessories before making your selection. The right container can add a unique touch to any outdoor area. Whether it’s an accent color in your patio or a focal point in your garden, choosing the right pot is critical.
Depending on the space, you can cluster the containers together for a dramatic impact. When grouping containers, make sure the colors complement each other. Try using complementary colors and repeating colors whenever possible. If you aren’t confident choosing colors, look at paint chips and color charts to find a color that matches the surrounding area. Choosing plants with similar color palette will help you achieve the most impact. Also, consider the type of plant you’d like to plant.