Step Three: Centerpiece

The plant you choose for your centerpiece should be a showy, attention getter.  This plant needs to be shorter and have a bushier type habit.  Geraniums are classic and a great performer.  Julie’s favorite is the Osteospermum, but it is a little fussy.  Other ideas are Gerbera Daisies, non-stop Begonias and Coleus.  Use an odd number of plants when planting your container.  An odd number is more pleasing to the eye and makes the container appear more balanced.

Step Two: Height

You need a tall plant for the center or the back of your container.  Spikes have been popular in the past, but Julie’s favorite is Angelonia.  This plant will grow to be 10-14” tall and is available in lots of different colors.  Mexican Feather and Quartz Creek Grass are two other options that add great texture and softness to a combination.

Step Four: Trailing Plants

There is a big selection of trailing plants available, so have fun and experiment.  Julie’s favorites are Ivy, Bacopa (Snowflake), Calibrichoa, Petunias and Sweet Potatoe Vine.  The number of trailing plants you use is important for the balance of your combination. You do not want to use two plants unless you are planting a window box.  Always use one, three (in a triangle), or more for large containers.

Step Five:Filler or accent plant

This plant is not the showiest, but it pulls it all together.  Nemesia and Swan River Daisy (Brachycomb) are Julie’s favorites, but Asparagus Fern is an oldy but goody.

Do you enjoy planting your own container gardens, but need some help getting started?   Below you will find Julie Witten's helpful hints for planting the showstopping container gardens your neighbors will be talking about all summer long.

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