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Thrillers, Spillers, and Fillers
When it comes to adding greenery and beauty to your outdoor space, few things can match the charm of a well-designed potted planter. Whether you have a spacious garden or a cozy balcony, potted planters can instantly enhance the appeal of your outdoor area. To create a stunning potted planter, consider using the thrillers, spillers, and fillers rule—a simple yet effective method for arranging plants in containers.
Thrillers
These are the focal point of your planter, often tall or eye-catching plants that add height and drama. In Ontario’s climate, consider using plants that thrive in full sun or partial shade, such as:
Purple Fountain Grass: This ornamental grass adds a dramatic vertical element with its burgundy foliage and graceful arching blades. It thrives in full sun and adds a striking contrast to other plants in the planter.
Canna Lily: Known for its vibrant flowers and tropical appeal, the Canna Lily adds a bold statement to your planter. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for Ontario’s summers.
Dracaena: These striking plants feature tall, spiky leaves in various colors, adding a vertical accent to your planter. They thrive in partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Spillers
These plants cascade over the edges of the planter, softening its edges and adding a cascading effect. For Ontario’s climate, consider using:
Sweet Potato Vine: Available in various colours, including vibrant green, purple, and variegated, the Sweet Potato Vine adds a lush, cascading element to your planter. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is easy to grow.
Lobelia: With its delicate trailing stems and vibrant blue, purple, or white flowers, Lobelia is an excellent choice for spilling over the edges of your planter. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Creeping Jenny: This low-growing plant features bright green, trailing foliage that adds a pop of colour and texture to your planter. It thrives in partial shade and moist soil.
Fillers
These plants fill the space between the thrillers and spillers, adding volume and texture to your planter. Consider using:
Geraniums: With their colourful blooms and aromatic foliage, geraniums are a popular choice for filling out potted planters. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Dwarf Marigolds: These compact plants feature bright, cheerful flowers and add a splash of colour to your planter. They thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant once established.
Dwarf Zinnias: These colourful annuals come in a variety of shades and add a playful touch to your planter. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
By following the thrillers, spillers, and fillers rule, you can create a visually stunning potted planter that thrives in Ontario’s climate. Remember to choose plants that complement each other in terms of height, colour, and texture, and ensure they have similar sunlight and water requirements. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can enjoy a beautiful and vibrant potted planter throughout the growing season.
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The Susan & Moe Team hopes you enjoy your spring season! Is it time to find a new home with a better outdoor space? Contact us!
