Container Plants
Big, portable pots of colorful flowers are useful in so many situations. They, of course, are great for welcoming guests at a doorstep and around pools and patios. People gravitate toward annuals for container plants, but really anything goes. Consider using perennials, herbs, vegetables and grasses. Heucheras, hostas, delospermas, and agastache are all popular perennial choices. They can be planted in the yard at the end of the season. Thai pepper is extremely hot and extremely ornamental, and eggplant has gorgeous foliage. Parsley and lettuce are just wonderful next to pansies early in the season.
Planting:
Select pots that have drainage holes and avoid small ones. Soil dries out quickly in small pots, and plants are often stymied by the tight quarters. Add gravel or mulch, even Styrofoam peanuts, to the bottom of the pot to ensure proper drainage. Fill the pot to the rim – do not pack it – with a good potting soil. Use Soil Moist which helps retain moisture, so you do not need to water as often. Add your plants and Osmocote, a slow-release fertilizer. Water thoroughly.
Fertilizing:
Hollandia uses a two-pronged approach. Osmocote is applied when the pot is planted. Give the plants a week to recover from planting, and then provide a liquid feed with Jack’s Classic or Miracle Gro every seven to ten days. Fertilize when the soil is on the drier side, but not bone dry.
Watering:
Pots should be checked daily for water. They will need less water in the beginning, when plants are small, and more when it gets hot and the plants mature. During the fall, watering will taper off again. Water the plants only when needed and according to plant requirements. Morning is the best time to water so foliage can dry off.
Caring for Your Pots:
If you have terra cotta or concrete pots, YOU MUST EMPTY them before winter. Bring them into your garage or cover so it is watertight. They will be damaged if left outside unprotected. Plastic pots and whiskey barrels will look nicer longer if emptied and brought in the garage.