How to Choosing the Right Pot
The foundation of a healthy container garden starts with choosing the right pot. Always select a container with good drainage holes to prevent excess water from building up around plant roots. Proper drainage helps avoid root rot and keeps plants healthier for longer.
The size of the pot is also important. Larger pots retain moisture better and give roots more room to grow, while smaller pots may need more frequent watering during warmer months.
What Mix to Use
A premium potting mix is essential for successful container planting. Potting mixes are specially formulated to provide the right balance of drainage, moisture retention, and nutrients that potted plants need to thrive.
Fill your container with a quality mix, such as Oderings Potting & Basket Mix, leaving enough room for your plants to sit comfortably at the correct planting height
The “Thriller, Spiller, Filler” Method
Thriller for Height
Start with a “thriller” plant in the centre or back of the pot to create height and structure. Plants such as lavender, grasses, or upright flowering varieties work beautifully to give year-round interest and draw the eye upward.
Spiller for Softness
Next, add a “spiller” plant around the edges of the container. These trailing plants soften the look of the pot by cascading over the sides, adding movement and fullness. Cascading pansies, lobelia, or ivy are popular choices.
Filler for Fullness
Finish by adding “filler” plants to fill gaps and create a lush, complete look. Compact flowering plants such as pansies or seasonal colour varieties work well to tie the arrangement together.
Planting Tips for Success
When planting, position each plant at the same height it was growing in its original container. Backfill gently with potting mix where needed, making sure roots are covered without burying the stems too deeply.
Once planted, lightly firm the soil around each plant to remove air pockets while still allowing good airflow through the mix.
Watering Your Pots
After planting, water your container thoroughly to help settle the potting mix around the roots. Potted plants dry out faster than garden beds, so regular watering is important, especially during warmer weather. Adding mulch to the top of pots can also help retain moisture and reduce evaporation.
Create Your Own Pot Perfection
Planting up pots is a simple way to refresh outdoor spaces and showcase seasonal colour throughout the year. By combining a quality potting mix with the right balance of thrillers, spillers, and fillers, you can create beautiful container displays that are both easy to maintain and rewarding to grow. That’s pot perfection for every garden.
