Looking for some inspiration for your container gardening project? Whether you are planning on using a Planter Box, Cube Pot, or Round Planters, we have some inspiring ideas here for you. If fact, we have gathered 125 container garden ideas and tips so grab a cuppa and read on to treat yourself to these awesome ideas.

1. Highlighting Doorways with Container Planting

Emphasising a doorway through container gardening featuring tall topiary plants can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home or office. These elegant, sculptural plants not only frame the entrance beautifully but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors. By incorporating container planting, you add a touch of greenery that softens the architectural lines, making the space feel more welcoming and visually appealing throughout the seasons.

2. Prevent Structural Damage by Putting Small Trees in Strong Pots

The vigorous root growth of small trees can potentially cause significant structural damage to paving, driveways, or swimming pools. To prevent such issues, it’s essential to plan ahead and place these trees in large, durable planter box containers that can effectively accommodate their root systems. By using robust pots, you can manage the growth of the roots while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space, ensuring that both your landscape and structures remain intact and visually pleasing.

3. Consider the Plant’s Mature Size When Planting

When selecting plants for your container garden, it’s crucial to consider their mature size to ensure a harmonious design. Choosing plants that will grow too large can overshadow other visual elements in your arrangement, disrupting the intended aesthetic. By researching and understanding the eventual height and spread of each plant, you can create a balanced and visually appealing display. This foresight not only maintains the beauty of your garden but also ensures that each plant has adequate space to thrive without overcrowding its neighbours.

4. Linear Repetition Using Same Size Pots

Creating a visually striking display with plant pots of the same size can be achieved through linear repetition. By selecting a few pots filled with vibrant, colourful foliage and arranging them in a straight line, you can establish an attractive barrier or a stunning alternative to traditional fencing. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also adds a sense of order and cohesion to your garden design. Additionally, this linear arrangement can serve as a decorative embellishment, drawing attention to pathways or specific areas of your landscape while providing a delightful contrast to other design elements.

5. Use Thrillers, Fillers and Spillers in a Container

In container gardening, incorporating a combination of “thrillers,” “fillers,” and “spillers” creates a dynamic and visually appealing arrangement. Thrillers are the standout plants that provide height and drama, drawing the eye upward and serving as the focal point of the display. Fillers are medium-height plants that fill in the gaps and add volume, ensuring the arrangement looks lush and full. Lastly, spillers are trailing plants that cascade over the edges of the pot, softening the overall look and creating a beautiful flow. By thoughtfully combining these three types of plants, you can achieve a well-balanced container garden that is both stunning and harmonious.

6. Use Rectangular Pots to Guide Pedestrian

Utilising rectangular plant containers in public spaces is an effective way to guide pedestrian traffic while enhancing the overall aesthetic. These pots can be strategically placed to create clear pathways, encouraging movement in a desired direction. For durability and style, granite pots are highly recommended, as they can withstand the rigours of high-traffic commercial areas. Their robust nature ensures that they remain intact and visually appealing over time, making them an ideal choice for outdoor environments. By incorporating these containers, you not only improve navigation but also add a touch of elegance to the landscape, contributing to a more organised and inviting public space.

7. Liven Up Boring Corners with Container Garden Ideas

If you find a section of your design looking dull or uninspired, consider livening it up with some thoughtfully placed container gardens. Adding a few tall pots filled with vibrant plants can instantly transform an uninspiring corner into a focal point of interest. The height of the pots draws the eye upward, creating visual intrigue without overwhelming the space. Choose a mix of colourful foliage or flowering plants that complement the surrounding elements, ensuring a harmonious look. This simple yet effective approach not only eliminates the monotony but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your garden or outdoor area, making it feel more inviting and lively.

8. Workplace Container Planting Comes with Many Benefits

If you find a section of your design looking dull or uninspired, consider livening it up with some thoughtfully placed container gardens. Adding a few tall pots filled with vibrant plants can instantly transform an uninspiring corner into a focal point of interest. The height of the pots draws the eye upward, creating visual intrigue without overwhelming the space. Choose a mix of colourful foliage or flowering plants that complement the surrounding elements, ensuring a harmonious look. This simple yet effective approach not only eliminates the monotony but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your garden or outdoor area, making it feel more inviting and lively.

9. Indoor Container Planting – Seal Those Drain Holes

When engaging in indoor container planting, it’s essential to consider how to manage excess water effectively. One practical solution is to seal the container’s drain holes to prevent any mess during watering. This approach allows you to maintain a clean environment, as it prevents water from leaking onto surfaces and creating unsightly spills. For professional environments consider a Drip Irrigation System

10. Use High Quality Frost-Resistant Containers

According to BBC Gardener of the Decade Katherine Crouch, high-quality frost-resistant pots are the best investments for a great garden. Frost-resistant planters are essential for keeping plants thriving during chilly months. Cheaper containers, often made of materials like terracotta or glazed ceramics, may not withstand freezing temperatures as well as concrete or fiberglass. To protect roots from harsh winter conditions, consider adding a layer of insulation like bubble wrap or newspaper to the planter’s interior. With proper care, frost-resistant planters can ensure your plants flourish even in the dead of winter.

11. Succulents Require Drainage

Succulents are drought-tolerant plants that thrive in well-draining soil. Overwatering is a common cause of succulent death, so it’s essential to ensure your pot has adequate drainage. Drain holes allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot. If your pot lacks drain holes, consider adding a layer of pebbles or gravel to the bottom to improve drainage. These materials create a barrier that allows water to pass through while preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged.

12. Be Generous with Succulents

Why plant just one succulent in a pot when you can plant a bunch of them? Succulents are versatile plants that can be combined in countless ways to create stunning arrangements. Instead of planting just one succulent in a pot, consider grouping multiple varieties together for a more visually appealing and dynamic display. The contrasting shapes, textures, and colors of different succulents can complement each other beautifully. Experiment with various combinations to find your favourite and unleash your creativity.

13. Fishbowl Succulents

Whoever said fishbowls are just for fish? Repurpose a fishbowl for a unique succulent arrangement. Fill it with well-draining soil and plant a variety of succulents that thrive in bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, as succulents are drought-tolerant. Enjoy the low-maintenance beauty of your fishbowl garden. Plant a variety of succulents in there and watch them thrive with very little maintenance on your end. This makes for a good table-top plant.

14. Not Enough Space? Hang Your Plants

If you’re running out of room on your patio or balcony, consider hanging your plants. This creative approach can maximise your space and add a unique touch to your outdoor decor. There are a variety of hanging planters available, from macrame baskets to metal cages. Choose plants that are suitable for hanging, such as trailing varieties or those with compact growth habits. With a little imagination, you can create a beautiful and functional vertical garden that will enhance your outdoor living space.

15. Create a Vertical Garden using an Old Pallet

Repurpose an old wooden pallet into a stylish vertical garden. Clean and sand the pallet to prepare it for planting. Drill holes in the spaces between the slats to accommodate small plant pots. Fill the pots with well-draining soil and plant your favourite succulents, herbs, or flowering plants. Secure the pots to the pallet using zip ties or twine. Hang the pallet on a wall or lean it against a fence to create a unique and space-saving vertical garden.

16. Mosquito Problems? Plant Lavender – Nature’s Mosquito Repellent

Lavender is more than just a fragrant herb; it’s a natural mosquito deterrent. The plant’s strong scent is unpleasant to mosquitoes, making it an ideal choice for outdoor spaces. To ward off these pesky insects, plant lavender on your patio or balcony. Not only will you enjoy the calming aroma, but you’ll also create a more peaceful and enjoyable outdoor environment. Those afternoon naps on your patio will become a better experience.

17. Rooftop Container Gardening: A Sky-High Oasis

Transform your rooftop into a lush oasis with container gardening. Choose containers with adequate drainage and select plants that thrive in your rooftop’s climate. Water regularly, fertilise as needed, and monitor for pests. Enjoy the fresh produce, beautiful flowers, and peaceful retreat your rooftop garden provides.

18. Avoid the Pot-Lifting Dilemma

Ever tried lifting a large pot filled with soil and plants? It’s heavy right? Before filling a large pot with soil, carefully consider its final placement. Lifting a heavy pot filled with soil and plants can be challenging and potentially damaging. To save yourself from unnecessary strain, choose a suitable location for the pot and place it there before adding soil and plants. This will prevent the need for heavy lifting and ensure a more enjoyable gardening experience.

19. Water Fountain Turned Planter

Give your old water fountain a new life as a unique planter. Remove any pump or plumbing components and fill the basin with well-draining soil. Plant a variety of succulents, herbs, or flowering plants to create a beautiful and functional centrepiece. Enjoy the natural drainage provided by the fountain’s design, ensuring your plants stay healthy and hydrated.

20. Tree Stump Planters: A Rustic and Natural Touch

Repurpose an old tree stump into a unique and eye-catching planter. Using a chisel, carefully carve out the centre of the stump to create a hollow space for planting. Fill the cavity with well-draining soil and plant a combination of thriller, filler, and spiller plants. The rustic texture of the tree stump will provide a natural and charming backdrop for your plants, adding a touch of organic beauty to your garden or patio.

21. Boat Planters

Transform an old, weathered boat into a stunning summer garden centrepiece. Fill it generously with high-quality potting mix, then plant a vibrant assortment of colourful blooms. Imagine the cheerful scene – a profusion of vibrant flowers overflowing from the sides of the boat, creating a whimsical and eye-catching focal point in your outdoor space.

22. Ornamental Grass

Ornamental grasses are a valuable asset when designing container gardens. Their inclusion adds a crucial layer of depth, transforming a potentially flat arrangement into a dynamic and visually interesting display. The varying heights of different grasses create a vertical element, while their unique textures – from feathery plumes to spiky blades – provide a captivating contrast to the leaves and blooms of other plants.

Moreover, the colours offered by ornamental grasses extend beyond the typical green, with varieties boasting hues of burgundy, gold, and even blue, further enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Finally, the gentle swaying motion of grasses in the breeze adds a dynamic quality to the container, creating a sense of life and movement that can truly elevate your outdoor decor.

23. Highlighting Small Plants

When incorporating small plants into your decor, consider using equally diminutive containers to maintain visual harmony. Strategically placing these arrangements at eye level ensures maximum visibility and appreciation. This approach allows the delicate beauty of the plants to shine.

However, it’s crucial to avoid the opposite scenario: pairing small plants with oversized pots or placing them in expansive spaces. This creates an awkward imbalance and diminishes the impact of the plants. By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively showcase small plants and create visually pleasing and harmonious displays.

24. Add Dimension by Going High

Introducing verticality to your garden can dramatically enhance its visual appeal. By elevating some of your most vibrant and colorful plants, you create a dynamic, multi-layered landscape. This technique not only adds visual interest but also draws the eye upwards, showcasing the beauty of your blooms from new perspectives.

Consider utilizing raised beds, trellises, obelisks, or even creative container arrangements to lift your plants off the ground. This simple yet effective strategy will transform your garden into a captivating three-dimensional masterpiece.

25. Match Plants Under the Same Sun

Creating a thriving container garden requires careful consideration of your plant’s needs. One crucial factor is sunlight exposure. To ensure optimal growth and health, group together plants that share similar sun requirements. Whether they thrive in full sun, partial shade, or deep shade, consistent light conditions will prevent stress and promote vigorous growth. Furthermore, consider their water and nutrient needs.

Plants with similar watering schedules and fertiliser requirements will thrive in the same environment, minimising the risk of overwatering or under-fertilising certain plants within the container. By carefully selecting and grouping plants based on these key factors, you’ll create a harmonious and flourishing container garden that brings you joy for seasons to come.

26. Use Native Plants

For effortless container gardening, embrace the beauty of native plants. Instead of exotic species, explore the diverse array of colourful native plants thriving in your region. These resilient plants are perfectly adapted to your local climate and soil conditions, requiring minimal care and reducing the risk of unexpected losses.

By choosing native species, you not only simplify your gardening routine but also contribute to the local ecosystem by supporting pollinators and wildlife. Embrace the natural beauty of your surroundings and create vibrant container gardens that are both visually stunning and environmentally friendly.

27. Grouping Different Sized Containers

Grouping containers of varying shapes and sizes can be a visually captivating design approach. The interplay of different forms and dimensions creates a dynamic and engaging display. Whether it’s a collection of tall, slender pots juxtaposed with wide, shallow bowls, or a mix of ceramic, terracotta, and metal containers, the diversity adds visual interest and depth to your outdoor space.

This approach allows you to experiment with different arrangements, creating unique and personalised groupings that reflect your individual style.

28. Use Deep Dark Colours

Incorporating deep, dark colours like rich purples, deep reds, and velvety burgundies can significantly elevate your garden design. These hues add a layer of sophistication and warmth, creating a sense of richness and depth that lighter colours may lack.

They can ground a vibrant colour scheme, provide a striking contrast to lighter blooms, and even evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. Whether used in foliage, flowers, or decorative elements, these deep, dark colours can add a touch of drama and elegance to any outdoor space.

29. Vertical Wall Gardens

Vertical gardens offer a brilliant solution for those with limited space. These innovative systems maximise your growing area by utilising vertical surfaces like walls or fences. Contrary to popular belief, creating a vertical garden isn’t overly complex.

Numerous DIY and pre-made systems are available, making it accessible to gardeners of all skill levels. From simple hanging planters to intricate living walls, vertical gardens not only enhance your green space but also add a unique and visually striking element to your home or outdoor area.

30. Make a Living Breathing Succulent Picture

Gardening is an art form, and this project allows you to create a living masterpiece. Plant a diverse array of succulents within a wide, square container. This container will serve as the frame for your “living picture,” showcasing the unique textures and colours of each succulent.

Experiment with different varieties, arranging them to create patterns, gradients, or even abstract designs. The result will be a captivating and ever-evolving piece of botanical art that adds a touch of nature’s beauty to your home or garden.

31. Place Woody Plants in Containers for More Design Options

Planting woody plants like small trees, shrubs, and even some vines in containers significantly expands design choices for patio gardens. This technique allows gardeners to cultivate plants that might be outside their typical hardiness zone, creating a more diverse and interesting landscape. Container gardening with woody plants offers flexibility, enabling easy rearrangement of the patio layout as desired. The portability of containers also simplifies protecting sensitive woody plants from harsh weather, extending their lifespan and maintaining their aesthetic appeal.

32. Bamboo in Containers

Introduce an oriental or Zen-like feel to your garden by incorporating bamboo. This graceful plant provides both height and depth, adding a vertical element and creating visual interest. The rustling leaves and slender stalks of bamboo create a soothing and tranquil atmosphere. However, bamboo’s rapid growth can make it invasive if planted directly in the ground. Containing bamboo in pots is essential to control its spread and prevent it from overtaking other plants. Choose a large, sturdy container with good drainage to accommodate the bamboo’s vigorous growth. Regular watering is key, especially during dry periods.

33. Overflow Bloom Effect

Create a dramatic and eye-catching display in your garden with the overflow bloom effect. This technique involves tilting a container, either by design or placement, and planting flowers so they appear to cascade or flow out from the container’s edge. The result is a visually stunning display, as if the blooms are spilling onto the surrounding area. Trailing flowers like petunias, verbena, and calibrachoa are ideal for this effect. Choose a container that complements the flower colours and consider the placement to maximise the visual impact. Ensure proper drainage to prevent water-logging, which can harm the plants.

34. Spiral Garden

Construct an attractive and functional focal point in your garden with a spiral garden. This unique design can be created using wire mesh, metal rods, and some basic construction skills. The spiral shape maximises planting space and creates a visually appealing structure. Spiral gardens are ideal for herbs, vegetables, or a mix of flowers and foliage. The tiered design allows for easy access to plants for harvesting and maintenance. Consider the size and placement of your spiral garden to ensure it fits well within your overall garden design.

35. Glowing Flower Planters

Add a touch of magic and nighttime ambiance to your garden with glowing flower planters. This simple DIY project involves coating the exterior of planters with glow-in-the-dark paint. As darkness falls, the planters emit a soft, ethereal glow, creating a captivating effect. This is perfect for illuminating pathways, highlighting focal points, or simply adding a touch of whimsy to your garden. Choose a high-quality glow-in-the-dark paint for long-lasting results. Experiment with different colours and patterns to personalise your glowing planters.

36. Vegetable Container Garden

Grow fresh, delicious vegetables even with limited space by creating a vegetable container garden. This practical and economical approach allows you to cultivate a variety of vegetables in portable planters. Container gardening offers several advantages, including easy access to your crops, control over soil conditions, and the ability to move plants to optimise sunlight exposure. Choose vegetable varieties that are well-suited for container gardening, such as tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and lettuce. Select containers of appropriate size and ensure they have adequate drainage.

37. Jewelled Planter

Add a touch of sparkle and elegance to your garden with jewelled planters. This creative project involves embellishing planters with beads, crystals, gemstones, or other sparkling accessories. Repurpose broken jewellery or other decorative items to create unique and eye-catching planters. The jewelled planters will catch the sunlight and add a touch of glamour to your outdoor space. Use a strong adhesive to secure the embellishments to the planter surface. Consider the colour scheme of your garden when choosing your jewels and embellishments.

38. Tower Planters

Maximise your gardening space and create a stunning vertical display with tower planters. This space-saving solution is ideal for small gardens, balconies, or patios. Tower planters involve stacking multiple planters vertically, creating a tiered structure that adds height and visual interest. This project may require some woodworking or construction skills, but the results are definitely worth the effort. Choose sturdy materials that can support the weight of the stacked planters and soil.

39. Seashell Planters

Bring a touch of coastal charm to your garden with seashell planters. These unique and whimsical planters are perfect for small plants, especially succulents. The natural beauty of seashells adds a touch of elegance and personality to your outdoor space. Choose seashells with a size and shape suitable for the plants you want to grow. Drill drainage holes in the bottom of the seashells to prevent water-logging. Succulents are a great choice for seashell planters due to their low water requirements.

40. Spoons for Hanging Planters

Add a touch of personality and charm to your garden by using old spoons for hanging planters. This creative DIY project involves repurposing spoons to create unique and whimsical hangers for small pots. Simply bend the handles of the spoons to create hooks and attach them to small planters. Hang the planters from fences, walls, or trees to add a touch of rustic charm to your garden. This is a fun and easy way to add a personal touch to your outdoor décor.

41. Natural Shade

Create a beautiful and functional source of natural shade in your garden by training flowering vines on an umbrella-shaped wire mesh. This elegant solution provides shade while also adding colour and fragrance to your outdoor space. Choose a fast-growing, flowering vine that is well-suited to your climate. Ensure the wire mesh is sturdy enough to support the weight of the mature vine. This creates a unique and classy way to enjoy your garden even on the hottest days.

42. Rocks as Garden Markers

Add a touch of rustic charm and natural beauty to your garden while keeping your plants organised by using rocks as garden markers. This simple and eco-friendly solution involves painting, writing on, or labelling rocks to identify your plants. Use paint pens, permanent markers, or even chalk to write the plant names on the rocks. Choose rocks of various sizes and shapes for a more visually interesting display. This is a fun and easy way to personalise your garden.

43. Mini Garden in a Container

Create a whimsical and enchanting miniature world within your planters by adding miniature benches, garden tables, fences, and other small decorative elements. This creative project allows you to recreate scenes from your imagination or create a tiny fairy garden. Use your creativity to design a miniature landscape that complements your plants and adds a touch of magic to your garden. This is a fun project for both adults and children.

44. Design Your Kitchen with Herbs

Bring the freshness and flavour of herbs right into your kitchen by designing a dedicated space for growing them. This is not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly practical. Having fresh herbs readily available makes cooking more convenient and enjoyable. Create a small herb garden on a windowsill, countertop, or even a vertical wall. Choose herbs that you use frequently in your cooking, such as basil, mint, thyme, and rosemary.

45. Add a Relaxing Scent, Use Lavenders

Transform your garden into a tranquil oasis by planting aromatic plants like lavender. Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing scent, which can help reduce stress and create a peaceful atmosphere. Plant lavender near seating areas or pathways to enjoy its fragrance as you relax in your garden. Lavender also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding to the beauty and biodiversity of your garden.

46. Help Planters Drain Properly

Proper drainage is essential for healthy container gardening. Avoid filling the entire planter with potting soil. Instead, start with a layer of loose material like broken terra cotta pots, polystyrene chips, pebbles, or even peanuts at the bottom of the container. This layer helps improve drainage and prevents water-logging. Cover this layer with a piece of landscape fabric before adding the potting mix to prevent soil from washing through the drainage holes.

47. Tiered Plant Stand

Maximise your vertical space and create a visually appealing display with a tiered plant stand. This is a great solution if you don’t have a variety of different-sized planters. A tiered plant stand allows you to create height and dimension in your container garden. You can arrange your plants on the different tiers to create a layered composition. Choose a plant stand that is sturdy and can support the weight of your planters.

48. Terrarium

Create a miniature ecosystem in a glass container with a terrarium. Terrariums are self-sustaining miniature gardens that are easy to care for. Choose a glass container with a wide opening. Start with a layer of gravel for drainage, followed by a layer of potting soil. Plant small, slow-growing plants like ferns, succulents, mosses, and miniature orchids. You can even add small figurines to create a miniature scene.

49. Broken Pots Turned Into Beautiful Fairy Gardens

Don’t throw away broken clay flower pots! Instead, use your creativity to transform them into beautiful fairy gardens. A broken pot can be repurposed into a miniature landscape with different levels and sections. Plant small plants and add miniature fairy garden accessories to create a whimsical and enchanting display. This is a fun and creative way to upcycle broken pots and add a touch of magic to your garden. Consider different levels within the broken pot to create a more dynamic miniature landscape.

50. Vertical Pot Garden

Create a striking vertical garden display using pots, an ideal space-saving solution for small gardens, balconies, or even indoor spaces. Stack terracotta or lightweight plastic pots on top of each other, using sturdy ropes threaded through drainage holes or a central metal rod for stability. This creates a tiered, eye-catching structure that adds vertical interest and maximises planting space. Consider using a variety of pot sizes and shapes for a more dynamic look. Choose plants with trailing habits to cascade down the tiers, creating a lush, living wall.

51. Toy Car Planters

Reclaim a piece of your childhood and transform those beloved toy cars into charming miniature gardens. This whimsical approach to planting succulents adds a playful touch to any space, indoors or out. Simply hollow out the car, ensuring adequate drainage, and fill it with succulent-friendly soil. The contrast between the rigid, nostalgic form of the toy car and the soft, organic shapes of the succulents creates a visually appealing juxtaposition. Choose cars with vibrant colours or unique designs to further enhance the display. These planters make excellent conversation starters and bring a sense of fun to your gardening endeavours, proving that even the most unexpected items can find new life as beautiful plant containers.

52. Easy Way to Create a Two-Tiered Pot

Elevate your container gardening with a simple yet elegant two-tiered pot arrangement. This technique maximises vertical space and adds visual interest to your plant displays. Start by placing a larger pot as your base. Then, invert a smaller, sturdy pot and position it securely inside the larger one, creating a raised platform. This inverted pot now serves as a pedestal for a third pot, which will be placed on top. The result is a stunning tiered structure that allows you to showcase a variety of plants at different heights. This method is perfect for creating focal points in your garden or patio, adding depth and dimension to your container arrangements. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to achieve a sophisticated garden design.

53. Use Dried Twigs to Spruce up Planters

Infuse your planters with a touch of rustic charm by incorporating dried twigs. These natural elements can transform ordinary containers into visually captivating displays. Simply gather fallen twigs from your yard or nearby woods, ensuring they are clean and dry. You can arrange them vertically, sticking them into the soil to create a natural fence or trellis. Alternatively, bind them together with twine or wire to form decorative structures. For an added touch of creativity, consider painting the twigs in complementary colours to match your plant palette. Dried twigs can also be used as part of a “thriller, filler, spiller” design, adding vertical interest and texture. Their organic shapes and textures provide a beautiful contrast to the smooth surfaces of pots and the vibrant colours of flowers and foliage.

54. Plant Citrus in Pots

Bring the vibrant colours and refreshing scents of citrus to your garden or patio by planting dwarf varieties in pots. These compact citrus trees, such as dwarf lemons and limes, are perfectly suited for container gardening, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit even in limited spaces. Citrus trees add a touch of Mediterranean flair to any setting, with their glossy green leaves and fragrant blossoms. As they mature, they will produce an abundance of bright, juicy fruits, adding both visual appeal and culinary delight to your life. Ensure your citrus trees receive plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil to thrive. With proper care, these potted citrus trees will provide you with a bountiful harvest and a delightful sensory experience.

55. Clinging Vines and Wood Structures: A No Go

Protect your wooden structures by avoiding the placement of clinging vines near them. While vines can add a lush, verdant touch to your garden, their tendency to retain moisture can lead to significant damage when they grow on wood. The constant dampness created by clinging vines can cause wood to rot, weaken, and deteriorate over time, compromising the structural integrity of fences, posts, and other wooden elements. This is especially true in humid climates or areas with frequent rainfall. Instead, opt for freestanding trellises or arbors made of metal or other weather-resistant materials to support your climbing plants. By keeping vines away from wood, you can ensure the longevity and durability of your garden structures while still enjoying the beauty of climbing plants.

56. Grow Vegetables between Your Ornamental Combinations

Maximise the productivity and aesthetic appeal of your container gardens by interplanting vegetables among your ornamental flowers and foliage. This practice not only saves space but also creates a visually appealing and functional garden. Vegetables like peppers and tomatoes, with their vibrant colours and interesting shapes, can add a unique touch to your floral arrangements. The fruits themselves become part of the aesthetic, offering a dynamic and ever-changing display. Imagine the bright red of ripe tomatoes contrasting with the soft hues of petunias or the deep green of pepper plants intermingling with the vibrant colours of marigolds. This combination provides both beauty and bounty, allowing you to enjoy fresh produce right from your own decorative containers.

57. If You Do Container Gardening, Work On Site

Avoid the strain and hassle of moving heavy planters by assembling them directly on their intended site. Remember that fully filled containers can become incredibly heavy, making them difficult and potentially dangerous to relocate. By working on site, you can save yourself the backbreaking work of lifting and manoeuvring heavy pots. Choose the final location for your planter before you begin filling it with soil and plants. This will allow you to focus on creating a beautiful arrangement without worrying about the logistics of moving it later. This practical approach to container gardening ensures that you can enjoy your creations without the added stress of heavy lifting.

58. Combine Similar Colours with Different Shapes

Achieve a harmonious and visually appealing container garden by focusing on a simple colour theme and incorporating a variety of shapes and shades. This approach creates a cohesive look while adding depth and interest to your arrangements. By sticking to a limited colour palette, such as shades of blue or pink, you can ensure that your plants complement each other beautifully. Then, introduce different shapes and textures through the foliage and flowers of your chosen plants. Tall, spiky plants can be paired with rounded, mounding varieties, while plants with large, broad leaves can be combined with those with delicate, feathery foliage. This combination of similar colours and contrasting shapes creates a visually rich and balanced container garden.

59. Contrasting Shapes and Complimentary Colours

Create a visually dynamic and captivating container garden by combining contrasting shapes with complementary colours. This approach uses the power of colour theory to draw the eye and create a sense of harmony. For example, pair purple and yellow flowers, which are complementary colours, to create a striking contrast. Similarly, use red and green, another complementary pair, to add vibrancy and depth. The contrasting shapes of the plants, such as tall, spiky flowers alongside rounded, mounding ones, add further visual interest. This combination of contrasting shapes and complementary colours creates a balanced and visually stimulating display, ensuring that your container garden becomes a focal point of your outdoor space.

60. Ensure Proper Drainage

Protect your patio or deck and promote healthy plant growth by ensuring proper drainage in your containers. Cover the drainage holes at the bottom of your pots with a mesh screen or a layer of gravel to prevent soil from washing through and clogging the holes. This simple step helps to maintain adequate drainage, preventing waterlogged soil and root rot. Proper drainage is essential for the health of your plants, as it allows excess water to escape, ensuring that the roots receive adequate oxygen. By taking this precaution, you can keep your patio or deck clean and dry while providing your plants with the optimal growing conditions.

61. Plant from the Inside Towards the Edge

When starting an arrangement, start from the inside with a tall plant as a thriller. Then work on the sides towards the edge with a lush plant as filler. Lastly, bring in the spillers near the edge and make them flow.

62. Keep the Colour Scheme Simple

Avoid a cluttered look on your container arrangements. As a rule of thumb, either use different shades of the same colour or use a complimentary colour scheme in your combinations.

63. Make a List Before You Go to Buy Plants

Before you go visit a nursery, make a list of plants that you need. Making a list ensures that you only buy what you need. You can also try listing down alternatives in case the plant you’re looking for is not in stock.

64. Sometimes Plants Die; Deal with It

Plants die all the time. Even the most experienced gardener will kill a few plants. Sometimes it might be best to just give up on a plant rather keeping it there wilted and dry hoping it would spring back to life.

65. Learn How to Tell if Your Plants Need Water

Many gardeners kill their plants by overwatering more than underwatering. Stick your finger in the soil, if it’s moist underneath, no need to water yet. If it’s dry, you know what to do.

66. Avoid Awkward Plant to Pot Ratio

The overall height of your arrangement should be as tall as your container. This is a basic rule of thumb but don’t be bound by it. There is always an exception to the rule.

67. Accent Stairwells with Colourful Potted Plants

Accentuate outdoor stairwells with colourful potted plants. The plants actually soften the design full of corners and hard geometry and make it more pleasing to the eye.

68. Grasses as Container Plants

Grasses, hedges and rushes most of the time are used around the garden to fill up the ground with foliage. But because of their texture and height, garden designers are starting to use them in container combinations as one of the main players.

69. Use Container Planters on Your Guard Railings

This will not only aesthetically serve the area but also it will keep you at a safe distance from the rails.

70. Know Your Plants

You know those tags that came with the plants when you got them from the nursery? Keep them as they contain important information about your plants. If you lost them, use Google to keep yourself knowledgeable about your plants.

71. Know Your Plant’s Growth Habits

There are plants that grow tall towards the sun. There are some that spread to get more sunlight. Some are crawlers. Some are shade lovers and stay low. Learn the growth habit of your plants lest the end result could be a chaotic one.

72. Contrast Containers with the Plant Qualities

You can change the personality of the plant by its container. Match a simple container to an eye-catching plant or put a simple plant in a dramatic container.

73. Soil-Free Potting Mix

Do not use soil for container gardens. Use potting mix. They have more nutrients, they retain moisture and aerate better. Use a layer of rocks at the bottom of the plant to aid in drainage and prevent blockage of drain holes.

74. Clay Pots vs Plastic Pots

Plastic pots keep the moisture in the soil better but clay pots are aesthetically better. Clay pots are like fine wine that gets better with age. If you want to have the benefits of both, try planting in a smaller plastic pot then placing it on a larger clay pot. Cover everything with soil up to the rim.

75. Start with the Greens

It’s better to start with green leafy plants if you’re a newbie gardener. They thrive better than flowering or fruit-bearing plants. There’s more room for error when you are just starting out gardening.

76. Get a Book on Gardening

Knowledge is power and that holds true for gardening. Get lessons from the experts and read a book on anything gardening.

77. Orchids on Planters

Orchids are one of the most beautiful flowers in the plant kingdom. Their exotic look combined with their elegant structure is a knockout combination. They may be a challenge to take care of but getting a bloom out of them is truly rewarding. And yes, you can grow them on planters too.

78. Garden for All the Senses

Wind chimes are as important as nice fragrances. If you have some small trees, hang a few wind chimes. Believe me, those afternoon breaks in your garden will be that much better.

79. Have Something in Bloom Every Season

Use plants that bloom on different seasons so your garden will look good any time of the year. There will never be a dull moment in your garden.

80. Design Your Landscape for People-Comfort

Include all-weather seating, dry paving, shade in summer, and wind protection in winter.

81. Change Your Plants Easily by Setting up a Buried Pot Garden

This makes landscaping easier especially during change of seasons, as you won’t need to dig up an old plant to replace it. This also keeps everything in its right place.

82. Create a Yard Environment that Welcomes Wildlife

Put out a bird bath. Install a birdhouse or have a pan high up with some birdseed. Take out your camera and take pictures of the different varieties of birds that visit your yard.

83. Keep a Garden Journal

Include photographs. Take note of the dynamics of your garden. Gardening is a continuous journey so keep track of where you have been with your yard and where you are now.

84. Keep Yourself Updated on Design Trends

From new tips to seasonal changes to new design trends, you might want subscribe to newsletters from garden design blogs to keep yourself updated.

85. Enrich the Soil

Remember you feed the plants by feeding the soil. You can use commercial fertilizer or make your own compost.

86. Consider Fruit Bearing Plants

Berries are good candidates for container gardens be it for ornamental purposes or for the berries themselves. Blueberry pancakes anyone?

87. Recycle an Old Bird Cage

Got an old bird cage but no birds? Turn it into a planter.  Plant some succulents and make them overflow. A layer of mesh on the sides will prevent the potting mix from being washed away when watering.

88. Play with Textures Not Just with Colours.

Greens are always easy to the eyes. To make it work, play with different textures of greens to give depth and guide the eyes towards the centrepiece.

89. Add a Butterfly Feeder

Attract more butterflies to your garden with do-it-yourself butterfly feeders. Mix one part sugar in 10 parts water for the food. Pour this mixture over a sponge and saturate it.

90. Old Tub Planter

Remodelling your bathroom and don’t know what to do with the old tub? Drag it to your yard. Drill some drain holes. Add a layer of sand and then some potting mix. Then plant away.

91. If Space is a Problem, Plant in Tall Pots

If there’s not a lot of space to accommodate plants, use tall planters. They won’t take as much space  and you get to have plants.

92. Colander Planters

Because they’ve already got the holes for drainage, they’re perfect for potting plants. You can even paint the colander before you start planting.

93. Cinder Blocks Planters

Stacked cinder blocks have readymade compartments that are ideal for a variety of plants. You can stack and build them to create a wall or fit a custom space. It’s like playing Lego with plants.

94. Tool Box Planters

If you’re aching to get a shiny new tool box, just go ahead and do it. The old one can be an ideal planter. Just don’t skip on the drain holes.

95. Flowers are Just One Part of the Design

While flowers in bloom are very attractive, most only last for a few days. There are plants that offer more than just their blooms. Consider foliage, fruits, and barks for a lasting colour and texture all year round.

96. Tire Planters

We love the new tire trends. They’re being upcycled in so many unique ways! With a little bit of creativity, you can add them to your yard, too.

97. Light Bulb Planters

This is a great way to upcycle old light bulbs. They look good but are very fragile so handle with care.

98. Teacup Planters

Need a good pot for planting herbs in your kitchen? You may not need to look too far. Get some old teacups from your cupboard and carefully drill some drain holes. Not only will it look good, it will also be a good fit for your kitchen design.

99. Chandelier Planter Holder

Now you won’t need to throw out that old chandelier. This will require a bit of work so just follow the instructions here.

100. Sitting Pretty

The lush yellows highlight the red calibrochoa. Aside from being a rail guard for the porch, the striking colour scheme in this wonderful arrangement will draw everyone’s attention.

101. Bigger Pots are Better.

Large containers hold more soil so they retain moisture better. More room also means bigger root systems. Bigger root systems mean healthier and happier plants. Also, small pots are especially not recommended for large spaces so don’t be afraid to go big.

102. Choose the Right Container for the Job

Terra cotta looks great but they break easily. Granite pots are durable but very heavy. Fiberglass pots are lightweight and look great in modern designs. To know more about different planter types, check out this blog post.

103. Greening Your Patio through Container Gardening

To many people, their patio is a place for some R&R. For some, it is a place for receiving guests and holding parties. When greening your patio, container gardening is the perfect solution.

104. Give Hand Pollination a Try

For gardens at higher elevations like in a high rise building, pollination might be a problem due to lack of insect traffic. To free up enough pollen to be effective, you can use a brush, cotton buds or just give your plants a good shake.

105. Bring Ceramic and Terra Cotta Pots Indoors During Winter

Ceramic and terra cotta pots that have soil in them can crack or break when left outside during winter. Keep them indoors in your tool shed or garage so you can use them again.

106. Love Salsa? Grow It in Containers

If you love salsa, then you must know that you can easily grow salsa in containers. Well, not salsa in the literal sense but the ingredients you need for salsa. Check out this link for more information. And bring out the chips please.

107. Clear Container Water Garden

Container gardening is also for aquatic plants such as the lotus plant. A transparent container will look good. The fish in the container is not just for aesthetic purposes though. It can prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs on the stagnant water.

108. Keep the Mints Within Reach

Mint can be invasive so keeping them in pots is ideal. Fresh mint leaves make a refreshing garnish for drinks on a hot summer day so keeping potted mint plants within arm’s reach is a real treat.

109. The Hanging Ball of Lush Succulents

Succulents are beautiful in their own right. However they grow so low that they are most of the time underappreciated. Bringing them within eye level like this arrangement captures the viewer’s interest easily.

110. Feed Your Roses with Slow Release Fertilizer

If you are fond of roses, you should know that in order to continue blooming they need a constant supply of nutrients in the soil. Put in some slow release fertilizer to keep them in bloom.

111. Use Eggshells as Fertilizer

Eggshells are high in calcium which is good for plants too. When you crush eggshells, its jagged edges become good deterrents to pests like slugs and caterpillars.

112. Plants Don’t Always Have to Start With Seeds

Many plants grow from cuttings like roses for example. If you see a plant that you like whether it’s from the neighbour’s garden or a park, you can simply ask for a cutting. Just don’t go cutting without asking for permission first. Stick it in a pot and it will grow roots. It’s like magic.

113. Choose Drought-Resistant Plants for Drought-Prone Areas

If you live in an area that gets the occasional dry spell, choose plants that are resistant to droughts. Your local nursery should be able to provide you with all the information you need.

114. Winter Season Gardening

Roots of potted plants are sensitive to freezing temperatures. This is because the roots are above the ground. You can place them inside a shed to mitigate the freezing temperatures or you can invest in frost-resistant pots.

115. Use Drip Irrigation for Stress-Free Watering

The amount of water your plants needs depends on many variables. We suggest a drip irrigation system to automate your watering without wasting water. You can read more about drip irrigation in this post.

116. Reuse Bottles as Watering Globes

Before you go on a somewhat long vacation, inserting a watering globe will ensure your plants are well watered for a longer period. Note that this is only convenient for container plants that like to be watered regularly. You can use any bottle for this one.

117. Deadheading

Cut off the wilted blooms to encourage new flowers. This process is known as deadheading.

118. How to Deal with Garden Pests

Ideally, you should have taken measures to ward off pests. When they do get in your garden, you should actively bury infected leaves, remove the pest habitat, and plant pest resistant plants.

119. When Using Pesticides Always Read the Label

Reading the labels on pesticides and following them ensures that you don’t accidentally kill off your plants and other beneficial bugs.

120. Use Trough Planters as Barriers for Pedestrians

Trough planters are effective barriers for separating spaces. In the image below, IOTA’s granite trough planters are being used to separate the parking area from the walkway.

121. Pinch Top of New Stems for a Bushier Plant

If you don’t want a leggy plant, pinch out the growing tip of each stem back to a node using your thumb and forefinger. This encourages side shoots to grow on other leaf nodes. You can do this a couple of times to encourage more growth, and later on, more flowers.

122. Prune Regularly

Aside from aesthetics reasons, pruning also helps promote growth of new branches. So prune regularly and use a proper pruner. You run the risk of having plant disease if you don’t prune properly. GardenWare stocks some really high-quality pruners.

123. Avoid Moving Your Plants Too Much

Plants need time to adjust to their surroundings so avoid moving them too much. Moving your plants too much can cause them to get stressed and eventually die out.

124. Bring Out the Artist in You; Paint Those Planters

If you’re feeling some artistic inspiration, try painting those pots. You can dull paint plastic pots and turn them into something eye-catching. You can even paint terra cotta pots but this will require some prep work. You have to make sure the terra cotta pots are clean before painting them. For an extra smooth finish, we would recommend sanding them first.

125. Enjoy Gardening

All these tips will be for naught if you don’t really enjoy gardening. Gardening should be a fun activity so enjoy and have fun. Garden with a smile on your face.