The Perfect Planter

Whether you’re looking for a way to spruce up your yard or for a simple yet meaningful gift for Mother’s Day, custom planters are the way to go. The eye-catching, vibrant array of flowers and greenery turn heads and catch the eyes of many.

I have found that the biggest drawback for people when it comes to planters is the price, with most custom planters costing upwards of $80. I don’t know about you but spending $80 on a flower arrangement that may or may not make it through one season does not sound very appealing. 

Luckily, I was able to witness first-hand how these pots were designed and had the opportunity to create them alongside experienced planter designers. I quickly learned that creating these planters is much easier than it may seem and that the cost to create these planters can be very affordable. Planters have now become a staple at my house and a trusty go-to gift every Mother’s Day.

Here is my go-to list of tips and tricks that I give every time someone asks me for advice on how to design a planter.

I. Every great planter consists of a pillar, a filler, and a spiller.

When creating a planter, it is important to remember to have varying plant heights and growth patterns. If you choose plants that are all going to grow to be the same height and in the same way, the plants in the middle will eventually become over shadowed. Along with that, it leads to there being a lack of texture and variety. When choosing plants for your planter, pick at least one plant that will grow upright and taller than the rest. I recommend putting this in the center of your pot. This plant will act as your pillar. I would then choose your filler plants. These plants should grow rather bushy to fill out your pot and should grow to be shorter than your pillar. Lastly, choose a good spiller. These plants will drape over the side of your container and add more texture and variety. Here are some popular plants that can be used for each type:

Pillar: Angelonia, fountain grass, lemon grass, snapdragon.

Filler: Impatiens, Ornamental Peppers, Marigolds, Zinnias, Pentas, Vinca, Lantana.

Spiller: Creeping Jenny, Dichondra, Ivy, Sweet Potato Vine, Lobelia, Scaevola, Bacopa.

II. Make sure you choose plants that have similar light and watering needs.

With all of the plants being in the same container, it is important that they can all survive under similar conditions. When picking plants, look at the tags attached to them to make sure they all require similar light exposure and have similar watering needs.

III. Make sure to choose a good pot/container.

With planters, the container is half the appeal. It is important to choose a container that compliments your outside décor and is the appropriate size for the space you have available.

IV. Have fun with it!

Planters are a fun way to spice up your yard and to add a bit of personality to your landscaping. Pick plants that catch your eye and suit your personal style. If you’re not sure where to start, look at pre-made planters for design inspiration and use that to help you get started. The uniqueness of each planter is part of what makes them so special, so don’t worry too much about your planter looking crazy. All that matter is that you like it and that it looks good to you.  

Happy Planting!

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