How to Fill a Tall Planter with Flowers: A Gardener's Guide

Tall planters offer a dramatic focal point in any garden or outdoor space. However, filling them effectively to create a visually stunning and thriving display requires careful planning and execution. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your tall planter becomes a vibrant masterpiece.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Tall Planter

The key to a successful tall planter is selecting plants with varying heights, textures, and bloom times. Think layers! This creates depth and visual interest, preventing a flat, uninteresting look.

The Thrillers:

These are your tall, statement plants. They provide height and structure. Consider:

• Tall grasses: Feather reed grass or Miscanthus provide movement and texture.
• Vertical flowering plants: Salvia, delphiniums, or snapdragons add pops of color.
• Small trees or shrubs: Consider dwarf varieties for smaller planters.

The Fillers:

Fillers add volume and create a lush appearance, filling the gaps between thrillers and spillers. Good choices include:

• Mounding plants: Dusty miller or ornamental kale offer interesting foliage.
• Compact flowering plants: Begonias, petunias, or calibrachoa provide continuous color.

The Spillers:

Spillers cascade over the edges of the planter, softening its hard lines and adding a sense of movement. Examples include:

• Trailing petunias: A classic choice for their abundance of blooms.
• Ivy: Adds texture and year-round interest (depending on variety).
• Creeping jenny: A low-maintenance option that spreads quickly.

What Size Planter Do I Need?

The size of your planter will influence your plant selection. Larger planters offer more space for a diverse range of plants. Smaller planters may require a more limited selection, focusing on a few key varieties. Always choose a planter with adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Your Tall Planter

1. Prepare the Planter: Ensure your planter has adequate drainage holes. Add a layer of gravel or broken pottery at the bottom for drainage.
2. Add Potting Mix: Fill the planter about halfway with high-quality potting mix. Avoid using garden soil, as it's too dense for containers.
3. Plant the Thrillers: Place your tallest plants first, centrally located. This forms the foundation of your design.
4. Add the Fillers: Plant your fillers around the thrillers, filling in the gaps and creating a fuller look.
5. Incorporate the Spillers: Plant your spillers around the edges, allowing them to cascade over the sides.
6. Water Thoroughly: Give your newly planted container a good watering to settle the soil and encourage root growth.

Maintaining Your Tall Planter

• Watering: Check the soil moisture regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Fertilizing: Feed your plants regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and keep your planter looking its best.
• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your plants for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action.

How Often Should I Water My Tall Planter?

The frequency of watering depends on several factors, including the size of the planter, the type of plants, and weather conditions. Generally, check the moisture level of the soil regularly. If the top inch feels dry, it's time to water. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

What Kind of Soil Is Best for Tall Planters?

Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for containers. Avoid using garden soil, as it is often too dense and can retain too much water, leading to root rot. A good potting mix will provide the necessary nutrients and aeration for healthy plant growth.

How Do I Prevent Root Rot in My Tall Planter?

Root rot is a common problem in container gardening. To prevent it, ensure your planter has adequate drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix. Avoid overwatering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Choose plants that are tolerant of slightly drier conditions.

By following these steps and choosing the right plants, you can create a stunning tall planter that will be the envy of your neighbors and a vibrant addition to your outdoor space. Remember, gardening is a journey, not a race, so enjoy the process!