Thriller, filler, spiller

THRILLER, FILLER, SPILLER,

FLOWERS IN CONTAINERS

A beautiful container arrangement is a welcome sight to friends
visitors and even ourselves when we arrive home.  

Beautifully arranged potted plants add an eye catching focal point to any area in your garden. Making them yourself is not as difficult as you may think and is very rewarding.

The most important thing is to make sure all the flowers and plants in the container require the same care, sunlight, soil and water. Otherwise there is a chance one will not survive, leaving an empty space where flowers should be growing. Read the directions on the plant marker or ask knowledgeable greenhouse personnel for suggestions.

For everyone who believes you can't have color in the shade, try a container
full of  caladiums and coleus. 

If your plant is root bound gently open the bottom with a blade or your finger tips before planting. This will permit the plant to better absorb water and minerals.

A common problem with all nursery stock, even trees and shrubs, a bound 

root ball will stunt plants which cannot easily absorb water or nutrients.

The mantra for a successful flower display is “Thriller, Filler, Spiller”.

 The ‘thriller’ is the plant in the center of the pot that adds height and interest. Usually this is a tall spike such as Dracaena (dra-SEE-na) with can be green or purple, or some type of ornamental grass.

The ‘filler’ is the flower around the center of the pot which is the most dramatic color. You can use more than one color flower if you wish. It’s your creation so have fun with it. 

Remember you want to see all the flowers in the center so they should all grow to the same height or one will crowd out the others by midsummer.

The ‘spiller’ will grow over the pot edge and give the entire container a fuller appearance. Many folks use variegated vinca, ivy or asparagus fern for this. If you have plenty of sun hanging geraniums, also known as ‘ivy geraniums’ will give your pot a knockout punch.

For those who don't have time or space to 'Garden With Children' a beautiful container
arranged together will help teach them an appreciation of gardening that may last a lifetime.

Although directions may say plant 6 to 8 inches apart, you want your pot to look like it is full immediately, so place plants much closer together. This ‘British’ technique works wonderfully in containers of annuals that will only survive one season.

Proper watering is essential for potted plants to survive. If your pot is on the ground it should be watered every day. If it is hanging, monitor it daily as it may need more frequent watering. On hot summer days it may need to be watered twice.

When creating your container you are only limited by your own imagination.
Although there are no flowers this display adds drama . 

When creating your containers you are only limited by plant requirements and your imagination.

Please support our local farms, greenhouses and supply stores. They have the largest selection and the best tended plants to choose from and they depend on our seasonal business.

Happy Gardening,   

 James