Potted garden ideas

words Jennifer Stackhouse

No space for a garden? Don’t despair, you can grow almost anything in a pot. Indeed once you start, potted gardening can become quite addictive, and it gives you the freedom to move your plants around.

Even if you’ve only a tiny space for a garden you can still enjoy growing a huge array of plants. Just about any plant that can be grown in the ground can be grown in a pot, from productive vegies and fruit trees to pretty ornamentals. The key to success is selecting plants that will suit their growing environment. If the area you would like to allocate for pots is sunny, grow lots of flowers like geraniums and pansies, as well as herbs and vegies. In shady spots, choose shade-loving plants such as impatiens, ferns and indoor plants, which are able to survive in low light.

It is tempting to just gather together an assortment of pots and plants, but with a little inspiration you can create a potted garden with style and flair. One or two large pots generally look better than a gaggle of small ones and they’re easier to look after. Select or paint pots in the same colour, or make a pattern by choosing several identical pots, then mounting them on a wall. You could also use pots to edge a path or define the end of a space, such as a walkway or seating area. Don’t be afraid to change the plants frequently to keep your pots looking great and foliage looking fresh.

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Planting tips for pots

In days gone by, potting up was tedious, calling for special soil mixes and broken crocks to sit in the base of each pot. Forget those old-fashioned ideas. All you need is the right potting mix and a pot with good drainage holes. Mixes are available for succulents, orchids and acid-loving plants such as azaleas (which grow surprisingly well in pots), and many incorporate water-holding material and slow-release fertiliser. Firm potting mix around the roots but take care not to plant the root ball too deeply. Leave 5cm of space between the top of the mix and rim of the pot to allow for water to be added without washing out the soil.

Want more? Check out: How to care for potted plants .

One or two large pots generally look better than a gaggle of small ones and they’re easier to look after.