Looking to create a stunning potted garden oasis at home? Start with the right tools, and a few tips and tricks, and it couldn’t be easier.
Pots are especially good to use in spots where planting is difficult, and they can quickly transform a space. Display your potted combo on a small balcony or deck to add interest or maximise their gorgeous potential by artfully grouping several pots together in a larger space to create impact.
Creating a container garden is a fun, easy way to liven up the look of your backyard. They are a simple way to fill a space with colour and texture and you can change them up according to the seasons.
To make it simple for you, we’ve compiled a list of five key tools and products you need to create a stunning potted combo at home, including the three-step method that will help level up your designs.
1. Gardening gloves
While this isn’t a super messy job, it always makes sense to wear gloves when working with plants and soil in the garden. Gloves help reduce any callouses or accidental tears to your skin. They also help protect you from spiky plants or thorns and insect bites. Plus, no one wants potting mix under their nails.
2. The perfect pot
The best potted combos start with picking the perfect pot. You’ll want to choose a pot that’s large enough to contain more than one plant. The Northcote Pottery Memphis Egg Pot is ideal for this. While this pot comes in various sizes, pick one of the larger sizes for this job. The contemporary pot comes in either white, olive green or charcoal and features a subtle and unmistakable geometric design. It’s stunning in any garden and makes a wonderful base for a potted combo.
3. Good quality potting mix
Using good quality potting mix can make or break a container garden. Ensure that you choose a potting mix that is made from top quality ingredients and is specifically made for use in potted gardens, so your plants are sure to thrive.
4. Pick plants according to the ‘Thrill, Spill, Fill’ method
When it comes to adding in the plants, Better Homes and Garden’s Melissa King recommends the foolproof ‘Thrill, Spill, Fill’ planting method – it’s guaranteed to give your potted combo some extra pop. “First, choose a ‘Thrill’ plant – the Prima Donna of your display. This plant should be bold and appealing, with a bit of height so it can be positioned at the back of the pot. Colourful, strappy leafed plants such as Burgundy Cordylines or Phormiums work well,” says Melissa.
“The ‘Fill’ plants are the supporting cast. Look for smaller, rounded options to fill the majority of the container. Don’t be afraid to add a splash of colour here with brightly coloured foliage or flowers.”
Complete the look with a ‘spill’ plant. “This is a trailing beauty that tumbles over the edge of the container to create the perfect potted picture,” adds Melissa.
For bigger pots, venture out and use more than one Thrill, Fill or Spill plant. Remember to combine plants together that enjoy similar growing conditions.
5. A sturdy watering can
A durable outdoor watering can is a must-have for caring for plants at home. Make sure it is large enough to contain a decent amount of water without needing constant refills, but it isn’t too large for you to be able to hold comfortably when it is filled with water. A watering can with a sprinkler type spout works best on delicate plants and newly planted seeds. Give your potted combo a good initial watering, and then water regularly as soon as the top few centimetres of the soil feel dry.
Head to Northcote Pottery for inspiration, advice, and more potted combo recipes.
Brought to you by Northcote Pottery.
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