We are being treated to the most beautiful weather right now. Our very soggy spring of last year is just a bad memory and we are now enjoying spring as it should be. Every shade of green, and all colors of flower in full, glorious bloom. I’m working on getting the front yard in order so I can spend time in the back yard which has been quite neglected. After the mandatory weeding, the big pots are in need of freshening up with a bit of thinning and the addition of a few annuals.
I added the Sem Ash Leaf Spirea on the left as well as the white bacopa. I think the Spirea is a great contrast in texture to the tall, dramatic chartreuse Euphorbia. The purple Aubretia spills over so beautifully and I love it next to the green pot.
My friend and I are having fun planting these discarded olive oil cans. I especially love the dark and bright green one . I planted Mediterranean herbs and flowers. There’s French lavender, rosemary, thyme and oregano. I couldn't resist the sweet pansies. It will eventually become too crowded but I enjoy blending them and they smell wonderful. They easily lend themselves to the green and purple theme I have going.
I think the thing to remember when planting pots is to treat them as little groupings. Rather than planting each one completely separate from the others, try staying with a color theme. Similar plantings and colors will provide en eyeful of coordinated color and design without looking too spotty. Tuck in something new every now and then when other blooms are spent. Every year I change a few things, add a different color or texture and trim and toss. Some of the plants stay in the pots for years and others are simply annuals that come and go. Plant a couple of basic shrubs as your anchors and then add and subract over time. Big planters are such a fun way to enjoy an ever evolving miniature garden. A fairly small commitment for a nice big punch of color.
Happy Spring!!
such beautiful happy colors! just starting some of that planting around here.....i always get so excited in the spring, only to give in to the summer heat by mid-June. Maybe you'll keep me inspired to nurture my plants through it!!
Posted by: steph@woolythyme | 04/24/2013 at 04:56 AM
I get exactly what you're saying about the mid-summer heat. The best thing I did was set up a timer drip for my pots and hanging baskets. Twice a day all summer and everything survived! I highly recommend it. I'd better write about it one of these days...as soon as mine are set out again. Thanks for reading!
Posted by: Janet's House | 04/24/2013 at 08:54 AM
dont you end up with hoses all over the place? Id be really interested in seeing this!!!
Posted by: steph@woolythyme | 04/24/2013 at 10:14 AM
We use a split nozzle and hook up a timer then, coming off of that are these little skinny black tubes that can be laid into each pot or basket. Bigger pots can get two or three. I think I'd better write about this and include pictures. I know I got the necessities at Home Depot. I'll get more info and let you know. I'm glad you asked!
Posted by: Janet's House | 04/24/2013 at 12:07 PM
love to see those pictures! I sort of get the idea, though. Perfect--well be away some this summer----this could save all my pots!
Posted by: steph@woolythyme | 04/24/2013 at 06:50 PM